Corolla Cross GR-S Hybrid
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.
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.
Safety & 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
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.
Content and images supplied via MotorPress