Toyota Corolla Cross gets more standard features and new model in South Africa

The Toyota Corolla Cross line-up in South Africa has been enhanced with new standard features based on feedback the automaker received from the crossover’s existing customers.

In addition, the Cross family has gained a new flagship specification in the form of the GR-Sport Hybrid, which for the past six months has been exclusively available as a petrol-only model.

The range now comprises a total of seven specifications with a starting price of R381,200.

Xi, Xs, and Hybrid upgrades

The most affordable Corolla Cross Xi which previously had halogen lamps has now been updated with LED headlights. Moving inside, it sees the factory fitment of an 8-inch touch display supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, a reverse camera, a redesigned speedometer, and a 4.2-inch multi-information driver’s display for information such as trip data and fuel levels.

For the pricier Xs the enhancements are less pronounced, as it gets a front armrest with cup holders, while all electrified trims gain blue headlamp inserts “conveying their hybrid credentials,” said Toyota.

GR-Sport Hybrid

The semi-electrified GR-Sport (GR-S) features a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with a small electric motor to put out a maximum of 90kW.

The configuration directs power to the front axle via a CVT gearbox, ensuring an economical 4.3l/100km combined fuel consumption, compared to the non-hybrid’s 6.8l/100km. A top speed of 170km/h is also achievable.

As part of the GR-S treatment, it was further on the receiving end of new shock absorbers and revised coil springs, as well as a new brushless-motor power steering module for more responsive handling, feedback, and cornering prowess

Moreover, the headlining Cross is visually denoted by model-unique 18-inch wheels painted black, a bespoke grille design also in black, a gloss black lower apron with “GR Mesh”, vertical air ducts incorporating fog lamps, a large Toyota insignia at the front, a roof spoiler, a black rear diffuser, GR badging, and a black roof, roof rails, and mirrors.

Equipment-wise, the GR-Sport is based on the range-topping XR grade and therefore sees a generous level of amenities as standard such as keyless entry, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, a reverse camera, park distance control sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and LED cabin lighting.

Price

The South African pricing and model line-up for the enhanced Toyota Corolla Cross are as follows:

Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R381,200
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS – R414,300
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS Hybrid – R442,800
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R451,300
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-Sport – R466,800
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR Hybrid – R480,200
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-Sport – R495,200

Each purchase includes a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 6-services/90,000km service plan, while the hybrid battery carries an additional 8-year/195,000km warranty provision.

A 15gb in-car Wi-Fi allocation is also included for the Toyota Connect services such as vehicle status information and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.