RANGE EXPANSION & ENHANCEMENTS FOR THE COROLLA CROSS FAMILY

Jan 4, 2024
3 minutes
  • GR-S Hybrid joins the range
  • Convenience specification added to Xi & Xs models

Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid

Following the introduction of the Corolla Cross GR Sport in 2022, its Hybrid sibling is the latest model to receive the GR-S touch. The GR-S package brings sharpened aesthetics to the ever-popular (and chart topping) Corolla Cross crossover, while under-the-skin fettling delivers improved driving dynamics. The Hybrid model remains in strong demand, with consumers recognizing the benefits of Toyota’s acclaimed hybrid system; refinement, smooth acceleration, fuel economy and near-silent EV mode operation.

Exterior Design

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid features:

  • Bespoke exterior package with a revised front grille design finished in gloss black
  • Gloss black lower apron with the signature 'GR Mesh'
  • Vertical air ducts which incorporate compact fog lamp units
  • Strong horizontal cross bar and large Toyota insignia
  • Black exterior mirrors paired with a black roof and black roof rails to craft a sporty bi-tone design
  • The rear employs a black roof spoiler, black tailgate trim and blacked-out rear diffuser
  • The package is completed by a GR badge affixed to the rear

Three exterior colours are offered, which match the GR brand colours: Arizona Red Bi-Tone, Chromium Silver Bi-Tone and Glacier White Bi-Tone.

Interior Design

The elegant simplicity and superb ergonomics of the Corolla Cross cabin are retained, while adding a dose of GR-inspired flair. The Cross GR-S Hybrid interior features:

  • Stylish black leather trim throughout with GR embossing on the front headrests
  • Red contrast stitching and red perforation
  • Red accent stripe on the instrument panel and piano black surface detailing
  • Chunky 3-spoke steering wheel with red stitching and piano black inserts

Ride & Handling

Under the skin changes comprise:

  • New shock absorbers and revised coil springs
  • Supplemented by a new brushless-motor power steering module (EPS) - to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback and cornering prowess
  • Unique 18" black alloy wheels shod with 225/50R18 tyres

Engine & Drivetrain

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid powertrain features:

  • Proven 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE Atkinson cycle petrol engine
  • CVT transmission with seven pre-programmed 'steps’ and a ‘manual’ mode
  • Total system output of 90 kW, with the electric motor offering up to 53 kW and 163 Nm
  • Impressive fuel index of 4.3 l/100 km on the combined cycle
  • CO2 emissions register a modest 98 g/km

Specification & Features

Using the Xr grade as a base, the standard specification is substantial:

  • Keyless entry
  • Power-adjustable and auto-retractable exterior mirrors
  • All-round one-touch power windows
  • LED lighting units
  • Cruise Control
  • TFT Multi-Information Display (MID)
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Reverse camera
  • Park Distance Control (PDC)
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • LED interior Illumination
  • Touchscreen infotainment system with CarPlay/Android Auto and USB

Towing capacity for the Hybrid model is rated at 400kg for both braked and unbraked.

Safety & Security

The Corolla Cross GR-S is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which offers a full suite of active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Trace Assist (LTA) and Pre-Collision System (PCS). These are joined by the obligatory ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist systems, as well as passive safety aids such as ISOFIX and a full airbag array.

Specification Changes & Enhancements

The convenience specification on the Xi and Xs models (both Petrol and Hybrid variants) have been increased - in line with customer feedback.

Exterior:

  • Xi models receive an upgrade to LED headlamps (previously Halogen)
  • Hybrid models get blue headlamp inserts conveying their hybrid credentials

Interior (Xi models):

  • Touchscreen 8-inch display audio system with 6-speakers
  • Reverse camera
  • Revised speedometer design
  • Full 4.2” TFT Multi-Information Display (MID)

Interior (Xs models):

  • Front armrest added with cup holder functionality

Model Line-up & Pricing

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi CVT                             - R 381 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS CVT                           – R 414 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR CVT                           - R 451 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS HEV                           - R 442 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV                           - R 480 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 CVT GR-S                        - R 466 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-S                     - R 495 200

Peace of Mind

All Corolla Cross models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km) and 3-year/100 000 km warranty. The Hybrid battery carries an 8-year/195 000 km warranty provision. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

Connectivity

All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car Wi-Fi allocation, vehicle status information and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.