Toyota South Africa Motors introduced the updated Corolla Cross GR-S to its award-winning, locally assembled Corolla Cross range. The company says the family SUV is infused with the unmistakable DNA of Toyota Gazoo Racing. The GR-S version adds sportier styling, refined driving dynamics, and enhanced interior finishes. With the introduction of the Corolla Cross GR-S, Toyota continues to redefine expectations in the compact SUV segment
Performance-inspired design
The Corolla Cross GR-S announces itself with a bold black mesh grille, sleek LED headlamps with sequential indicators, and a sporty skid plate on the revised front end. In profile onlookers can note new side mouldings and newly designed 18-inch six-spoke machined alloy wheels. At the rear, distinctive lighting creates a clean, uniform signature, complemented by a blacked-out badge and sculpted skid plate.
Driver-focused interior
The cabin features a number of upgrades to match the new sporty exterior appearance. Black leather upholstery with red contrast stitching, GR branding, and red seatbelts establish a distinctive character. Aluminium sports pedals reinforce the theme, while the new centre console – finished in piano black with subtle red accents – offers a clean layout. Paddle shifters on the petrol variant add an extra layer of driver engagement.
A new centre console has also been introduced across the rest of the Corolla Cross range. A 10,1-inch display audio system and 12,3-inch digital instrument cluster provide clear, connected access to key information. Features such as a 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a power back door with a kick sensor enhance usability.
Advanced technology
The latest Corolla Cross range benefits from a larger, high-resolution display audio system with three customisable display modes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The system also features multi-touch functionality, improved Bluetooth connectivity, and an enhanced user interface for a smoother user experience. A fully digitised instrument cluster, available on XR and GR-S grades, offers improved clarity and customisable themes, allowing drivers to tailor the display to their preferences.
Refined performance
The Corolla Cross GR-S delivers a balanced and confident drive. Its suspension has been specifically tuned to enhance handling and feedback, while maintaining the comfort required for a variety of South African driving conditions – from urban commutes to long-distance travel. Efficiency remains a key strength, ensuring low running costs without compromising performance.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the Corolla Cross range, with advanced driver assistance systems designed to support and protect occupants, delivering peace of mind on every journey. The Corolla Cross GR-S is equipped with seven airbags, including driver and passenger, driver knee, front side, and curtain airbags, reinforcing its strong safety credentials.
Peace of mind
All Corolla Cross models are sold with a six-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals at 15 000 km) and a three-year/100 000 km warranty. The hybrid battery is covered by an eight-year/160 000 km warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions are available through Toyota’s national dealer network.
Learn all about the Corolla Cross range by clicking this link.












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