Toyota Europe Gives Corolla Cross Updated GR-Sport Treatment

The Toyota Corolla Cross has been given a timely update with its reveal taking place in Europe. The continent will also receive a GR Sport grade for the first time.

Image: Toyota

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Toyota has whipped the wraps off the updated Corolla Cross, and the changes are touted to offer sharper styling while refining the overall product. More importantly, the GR Sport grade will be implemented for the first time to global iterations of the popular SUV. Unlike South Africa, the international model will combine hybrid efficiency into the GR-badged package.

With the updates, Toyota has aimed squarely at style- and tech-conscious buyers. The exterior debuts a reworked front grille with a honeycomb mesh design, redesigned LED headlights with adaptive high-beam functionality, and updated rear lights with aerodynamic fins. A set of 18-inch alloys sit on each corner, while an embossed model logo on the tailgate rounds up the changes to what South Africa is familiar with.

Related: All of the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Used Buys for 2025

Inside, the cabin has been upgraded with a larger centre console, new smartphone stowage, and a revised gear selector. Wireless charging is now standard, while Android users will be pleased to hear that charging speed is now on par with Apple CarPlay. All grades benefit from the new Toyota Smart Connect system with a 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the driver receives a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (which will now be standard in Euro markets).

The most important piece of news is that for the first time, Toyota’s GR Sport branding – already seen on the Hilux and Fortuner locally – now adorns the Corolla Cross. These models will sit 10 mm lower, feature 19-inch black alloys and a derivative-specific front grille, gloss black emblems, and a bi-tone exterior paint option in Storm Grey. Gazoo’s treatment continues inside with suede-like upholstery replete with GR branding and red stitching.

Image: Toyota

Toyota has also mentioned that the handling of the GR-badged product has been sharpened too, with revised suspension and steering, paddle shifters, and a new Sport Mode. This system raises the engine idle for faster throttle response, and automatically increases deceleration when lifting off the pedal. Also exclusive to this grade is a region-specific Snow Extra Mode, Toyota’s newest AWD-i function that is touted to enhance traction and control in slippery conditions.

Related: 2025 Toyota GR Yaris Pricing Unearthed

While the South African market retains its 1.8-litre petrol and hybrid powertrains, the European version of the facelifted Corolla Cross will offer two outputs – Hybrid 140 and Hybrid 200 – as part of Toyota’s multi-pathway electrification approach. AWD-i variants remain part of the offering, now bolstered by the aforementioned Snow Extra mode. As a reminder, the Corolla Cross is priced between R414 800 and R561 700 with seven models for prospective buyers to choose from.

The updated Corolla Cross will go on sale in Europe from mid-2025, with the GR Sport grade arriving later in the year. Toyota South Africa has confirmed that these refreshed aesthetics will be implemented locally from 2026, with all details like powertrain and pricing expected closer towards the new year.

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The post Toyota Europe Gives Corolla Cross Updated GR-Sport Treatment appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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