By Otsile Kadiege

Late last year, Toyota introduced the GR Sport grade to the Corolla Cross range which was subsequently launched in various markets. The Corolla GR Sport, which boasts a series of visual and mechanical updates, will soon be launched in South Africa.

GR-Sport exterior and interior styling

The Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport has a radically redesigned front-end. The Corolla Cross GR-Sport’s snout features gloss black surrounds, which connect with the LED headlights, is noticeably smaller. Adding to the sporty look is the redesigned front bumper. The Corolla Cross GR-Sport gets a set of 18-inch alloy wheels and faux skid plates on the front and rear bumpers as well as side skirts.

Apart from a GR-Sport logo on the push start/stop button and black leather seats with GR-Sport embossed headrests and red stitching much of the interior of the Corolla GR-Sport remains largely the same.

GR-Sport performance

Powering the Corolla Cross GR-Sport is a non-hybridised 1.8-litre four cylinder petrol engine making 103kW and 172Nm. It’s paired to a CVT gearbox and has a claimed top speed and fuel consumption 185km/h and 6.8l/100km respectively.

Under the skin, revised suspension componentry and tuning are complemented by a recalibrated power steering module (EPS) to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback and cornering prowess.

Pricing                     

Pricing for the Corolla Cross GR-Sport starts at R453,200. 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 000km warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).