The GR Sport Hybrid joins the Corolla Cross range

Following the introduction of the Corolla Cross GR Sport in 2022, its Hybrid sibling is the latest model to receive the GR-S touch. The GR-S package brings sharpened aesthetics to the ever-popular (and chart topping) Corolla Cross crossover, while under-the-skin fettling delivers improved driving dynamics. The Hybrid model remains in strong demand, with consumers recognizing the benefits of Toyota’s acclaimed hybrid system; refinement, smooth acceleration, fuel economy and near-silent EV mode operation.

The GR-S Hybrid range features

Exterior Design

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid features:

• Bespoke exterior package with a revised front grille design finished in gloss black
• Gloss black lower apron with the signature ‘GR Mesh’
• Vertical air ducts which incorporate compact fog lamp units
• Strong horizontal cross bar and large Toyota insignia
• Black exterior mirrors paired with a black roof and black roof rails to craft a sporty bi-tone design
• The rear employs a black roof spoiler, black tailgate trim and blacked-out rear diffuser
• The package is completed by a GR badge affixed to the rear

Three exterior colours are offered, which match the GR brand colours: Arizona Red Bi-Tone, Chromium Silver Bi-Tone and Glacier White Bi-Tone.

Interior Design

The elegant simplicity and superb ergonomics of the Corolla Cross cabin are retained, while adding a dose of GR-inspired flair. The Cross GR-S Hybrid interior features:

• Stylish black leather trim throughout with GR embossing on the front headrests
• Red contrast stitching and red perforation
• Red accent stripe on the instrument panel and piano black surface detailing
• Chunky 3-spoke steering wheel with red stitching and piano black inserts

Ride & Handling

Under the skin changes comprise:

• New shock absorbers and revised coil springs
• Supplemented by a new brushless-motor power steering module (EPS) – to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback and cornering prowess
• Unique 18″ black alloy wheels shod with 225/50R18 tyres

Engine & Drivetrain

The Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid powertrain features:

• Proven 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE Atkinson cycle petrol engine
• CVT transmission with seven pre-programmed ‘steps’ and a ‘manual’ mode
• Total system output of 90 kW, with the electric motor offering up to 53 kW and 163 Nm
• Impressive fuel index of 4.3 l/100 km on the combined cycle
• CO₂ emissions register a modest 98 g/km

Specification & Features

Using the Xr grade as a base, the standard specification is substantial:

• Keyless entry
• Power-adjustable and auto-retractable exterior mirrors
• All-round one-touch power windows
• LED lighting units
• Cruise Control
• TFT Multi-Information Display (MID)
• Dual-zone climate control
• Reverse camera
• Park Distance Control (PDC)
• Rain-sensing wipers
• LED interior Illumination
• Touchscreen infotainment system with CarPlay/Android Auto and USB

Towing capacity for the Hybrid model is rated at 400kg for both braked and unbraked.

The GR-S Hybrid: Safety and security

The Corolla Cross GR-S is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which offers a full suite of active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Trace Assist (LTA) and Pre-Collision System (PCS). These are joined by the obligatory ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist systems, as well as passive safety aids such as ISOFIX and a full airbag array.

Specification Changes & Enhancements

The convenience specification on the Xi and Xs models (both Petrol and Hybrid variants) have been increased – in line with customer feedback.

Exterior:

• Xi models receive an upgrade to LED headlamps (previously Halogen)
• Hybrid models get blue headlamp inserts conveying their hybrid credentials

Interior (Xi models):

• Touchscreen 8-inch display audio system with 6-speakers
• Reverse camera
• Revised speedometer design
• Full 4.2” TFT Multi-Information Display (MID)

Interior (Xs models):

• Front armrest added with cup holder functionality

The GR-S Hybrid: Model Line-up & Pricing

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi CVT                             – R 381 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS CVT                           – R 414 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR CVT                           – R 451 300

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS HEV                           – R 442 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV                           – R 480 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 CVT GR-S                        – R 466 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-S                     – R 495 200

Peace of Mind

All Corolla Cross models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km) and 3-year/100 000 km warranty. The Hybrid battery carries an 8-year/195 000 km warranty provision. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

Connectivity

All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car Wi-Fi allocation, vehicle status information and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.

Published by Toyota South Africa on MotorPress

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