The Toyota Corolla Cross, one of the best-selling cars in South Africa, has seen a few changes recently.
The popular crossover was updated with a range of features with the entry-level Xi trim being on the receiving end of most of these upgrades, and it also saw a new flagship option introduced in the form of the GR-Sport Hybrid.
As such, there are now seven models bearing the Corolla Cross nameplate, with prices starting at R381,200 all the way up to R495,200.
That works out to a substantial price difference of R114,000, so we checked what each car offers to find out what the higher-spec models really bring to the table.
Powertrains
The Corolla Cross Xi is powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine, is front-wheel drive, and connects the axle to the motor with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
This setup provides 103kW and 172Nm, while fuel consumption works out to 6.8l/100km on a combined cycle.
The GR-Sport Hybrid’s foundation is a bit more complicated, utilizing the aforementioned 1.8-litre powertrain in tandem with a small electric motor.
The result is that this Toyota has 90kW at its disposal, however, the manufacturer does not provide an official torque figure for its semi-electric Cross due to the complexity of the drivetrain, opting to list its pulling power as “142+e Nm.”
Nevertheless, the main benefit of the alternate configuration is felt in the fuel-saving department, as the hybrid consumes just 4.3l/100km on a typical journey. It also features regenerative braking, which recovers the energy generated during intensive braking and sends it back to the battery.
Another change specific to the GR-Sport versions is that the steering, shocks, and suspension have been adjusted specifically for these models to supply a more dynamic handling character.
Features
Thanks to the recent update, the Xi now comes with LED headlights and daytime running lights, a 4.2-inch driver display, a reverse camera, and an 8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This is all on top of the pre-existing features like 17-inch alloy wheels, a multifunction steering wheel, keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, six speakers, fabric seats, and manual air conditioning.
Where the range-topper then starts to differ is in its visuals, as both the hybrid and GR models boast unique styling credentials.
The hybrids receive blue-tinted headlights, as well as several blue inserts to demarcate their new-energy drivetrain, while the GR-Sport designation is accompanied by sporty finishes including unique 18-inch alloys, a bespoke grille, a lowered front apron, vertical air ducts, and a roof spoiler – all featuring a black makeover.
It’s a similar story inside, as the upholstery and dashboard have a black and red trim, and the start button bears the GR logo.
Equipment-wise, the Sport is comparable to the XR, meaning you can add automatic headlights, leather seats, front and rear park sensors, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors to the list of amenities.
The proportions of both cars remain the same, translating to a ground clearance of 161mm and a boot with 440 litres of storage.
Pricing
The Toyota Corolla 1.8 Xi has a South African starting price of R381,200.
The Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR-Sport has a local starting price of R495,200.
Each purchase comes with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 6-year/90,000km service plan. The hybrid also gets a separate 8-year/195,000km battery warranty.
Toyota Corolla Cross
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid GR-Sport
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