While the rest of the Corolla Cross range received a facelift 14 months ago, Toyota held back on updating the flagship model of South Africa’s best-selling C-segment SUV until now. The enhancements are subtle, limited to a few styling tweaks to the interior and exterior.
The GR-S again comes in two powertrains, also available across the rest of the range: a self-charging hybrid (HEV) and a 1,8ℓ naturally aspirated petrol engine. The petrol engine produces 103kW of power and 172Nm of torque, while the HEV delivers a combined 90kW and 143Nm from the 1,8ℓ engine, electric motor, and battery pack. Both models send drive to the front wheels via a CVT.
Small changes
While the rest of the updated model range swapped out the black grille for a body-colour unit integrated into the front bumper, the GR-S has kept its dedicated mesh grille, which Toyota says “creates a more agile and dynamic appearance”. However, the grille frame that extends onto the sides has changed from gloss black to body colour.
Other exterior tweaks include new LED headlights with sequential turn signals, a new tail-light design, new brushed aluminium front and rear skid plates, black model badging on the tailgate, and 18” alloy wheels, which have moved from a black finish to a six-spoke machined-finish design.
The new GR-S is offered in three bi-tone colours: Glacier White, Chromium Silver, and Arizona Red, each paired with a black roof.
Flashy touches
Inside, red seat belts, aluminium sports pedals, and a GR logo in the instrument cluster join existing sporty elements in the form of black GR-S leather upholstery with red stitching and embroidered GR logos on the headrests.
Making its debut across the entire range is a new centre console which, according to the Japanese carmaker, features an elevated design, a sleek central layout, and added convenience. The gear lever is finished in black leather with red stitching, while the console is rounded off in piano black.
Another new addition is paddle shifters in the petrol model.
Carried over from the previous version are a 12,3” digital instrument cluster, a 10,1” infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360° camera, and an electric tailgate with kick sensor.
Top-notch safety
Like the GR model derivatives, the GR-S also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes advanced driver assistance systems like rear cross-traffic alert. Seven airbags are included as part of the passive safety package.
While the GR-S doesn’t feature any power increase over the standard models, it does gain retuned suspension. This, according to Toyota, enhances handling and road feedback while maintaining the comfort required for a variety of South African driving conditions.
The short media launch drive around Pretoria was never going to teach us anything new, as we’ve spent plenty of time in the Corolla Cross since its local launch in 2022. However, it did serve as a reminder of how excellent it is. Beyond its smashingly good looks, the fact that it wears the badge of South Africa’s favourite car brand, with styling inspired by its racing division, helps set it apart from anything else out there.
It has enough power, handles superbly well, and the suspension does an excellent job at keeping the ride comfortable.
What’s the verdict?
While the HEV will save you at the fuel pumps, the petrol model is more responsive and a better choice if you’re after a sportier drive. As we’ve also experienced in the Corolla sedan, the CVT is well-behaved.
The Corolla Cross GR-S is Toyota’s best-selling model in its GR-Sport portfolio, and it’s easy to see why. The updates will only make it more desirable.
Vehicle pricing
Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi CVT – R420 700
Corolla Cross 1.8 XS CVT – R458 400
Corolla Cross 1.8 XR CVT – R508 200
Corolla Cross 1.8 XS HEV – R501 100
Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV – R552 400
Corolla Cross 1.8 CVT GR-S – R527 000
Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-S – R569 700
Pricing includes a six-service/90 000km service plan and a three-year/100 000km warranty. HEV models are also covered by an eight-year/160 000km battery warranty.
