Corolla Cross Family set to Expand and Elevate its Capabilities with Latest Enhancements

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid is the latest addition to Toyota’s GR Sport lineup, following the success of the Corolla Cross GR Sport in 2022. The GR-S package not only enhances the aesthetics of the popular Corolla Cross crossover but also improves its driving dynamics. The hybrid model remains in high demand, thanks to the benefits of Toyota’s acclaimed hybrid system, such as refinement, smooth acceleration, fuel economy, and near-silent EV mode operation.

Exterior Design of the Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid boasts a bespoke exterior package with a gloss black front grille design, signature ‘GR Mesh’ gloss black lower apron, and vertical air ducts incorporating compact fog lamp units.

The package is completed by:

• Black exterior mirrors paired with a black roof and,
• Black roof rails, black rear spoiler
• Black tailgate trim,
• Blacked-out rear diffuser
• GR badge affixed to the rear

Three exterior colors are offered to match the GR brand colors:

• Arizona Red Bi-Tone
• Chromium Silver Bi-Tone
• Glacier White Bi-Tone

Interior Design of the Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid’s cabin retains its elegant simplicity and superb ergonomics while adding a GR-inspired flair.

The interior features of the Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid:

• Stylish black leather trim with GR embossing on the front headrests
• Red contrast stitching
• Red perforation
• Red accent stripe on the instrument panel
• Piano black surface detailing

The steering wheel of the Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid boasts a bold and chunky three-spoke design, complemented by tasteful red stitching and sleek piano black inserts.

Drive and Handling

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid features:

• New shock absorbers
• Revised coil springs
• New brushless motor power steering module to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback, and cornering prowess.

It also has unique 18″ black alloy wheels shod with 225/50R18 tires.

Engine and Drivetrain

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid, with its state-of-the-art powertrain, boasts the following features:

• A tried-and-tested 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE Atkinson cycle petrol engine.
• For added convenience, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with seven pre-programmed ‘steps’ and a ‘manual’ mode.
• A total system output of 90 kW, with the electric motor chipping in up to 53 kW and 163 Nm of torque for an extra boost.
• An astonishing fuel efficiency rating of 4.3 l/100 km on the combined cycle is nothing short of impressive.
• An eco-friendly CO2 emissions rating of just 98 g/km, making it one of the most environmentally conscious vehicles on the market.

Specification and Features of the new Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid:

The new Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid doesn’t skimp on features and specifications.

Starting with the Xr grade as a base, this hybrid beauty comes with a slew of impressive standard specs, including:

• 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) to keep you updated on all your driving needs.

Additionally, you’ll enjoy the comfort of dual-zone climate control, the convenience of a reverse camera, Park Distance Control (PDC), and rain-sensing wipers. The LED interior Illumination adds to the car’s aesthetic appeal, while the touchscreen infotainment system, complete with CarPlay/Android Auto and USB connectivity, provides all the entertainment and navigation options you could ask for. And let’s not forget about the towing capacity for the Hybrid model, which is rated at 400kg for both braked and unbraked, making this a versatile vehicle for all your driving needs.

Safety and Security in the new Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid:

The Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S takes safety seriously with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) technology. This comprehensive active safety suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Trace Assist (LTA) and Pre-Collision System (PCS). The SUV also features ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist systems as standard, ensuring the utmost safety. Passive safety is also a top priority, with ISOFIX and a complete airbag system rounding out the suite of safety features.

How much does the Corolla Cross cost in South Africa?

• 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

When purchasing any Corolla Cross model, a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (15 000 km intervals) and a 3-year/100 000 km warranty are included. The Hybrid battery warranty provision lasts for 8 years/195 000 km. In addition, Toyota dealers (220 outlets) offer the option to purchase service and warranty plan extensions.

Also read:

Award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulia Triumphs Again as Best Cars 2023 Midsize Import Winner