By Otsile Kadiege

One of Toyota South Africa’s best-selling models – the locally assembled Corolla Cross – has receievd a bunch of welcomed updates. The popular SUV recieved numerous standard features, newly added conveniece features, upgraded driver assistance systems, new technologies

Exterior updates

Up front, all models sport an integrated geometric bumper and grille that extends towards the newly designed LED headlights featuring sequential turn signal indicators.  This dramatic dynamism is echoed at the rear through the tail-lamps which are now better defined through the fitment of an inner lense, to add uniformity.

Xi and XS models are fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, while XR and GR-Sport models are shod with 18-inch alloy wheels. The updated Corolla Cross is available in a variety of colours including the newly added Desert Gold and Oxide Bronze colours. Other colours include Chromium Silver, Glacier White and Platinum White Pearl.

Updated interior

Inside, Toyota has improved the tactility of materials, stitching and carpets, and customers now have two trim options available, Black and Tera Rosa. Other standout features of the updated Corolla Cross include a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen for the XS, XR and GR-Sport grades with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 7-inch instrument cluster on XS grade (XR and GR-Sport models treated to a fully digital 12-inch multi-information display), standard three USB-C ports, reclining rear seats, added rear air-con ducts on the Xi grade, space-saving push-button electronic handbrake, a push start button, as well as voice command through the roof microphone.

Upgraded driver assistance systems

Both the XR and GR-Sport now also incorporate a power rear door with a below bumper kick sensor for hands-free opening, a 360-degree view, adaptive cruise control and lane trace assist. Xi models feature rear parking sensors, with the mid-level XS model updated to receive front sensors in addition to its existing rear ones.

Corolla Cross GR Sport exterior and interior styling

Outside, the GR Sport derivative sets itself apart with striking bi-tone colours including; Glacier White, Arizona Red, Chromium Silver Bi-tone, an aggressive grille, black 18-inch alloy wheels, a black roof, GR Sport badges all-round. Inside, the cabin gets GR-Sport branding embossed on the front headrests, red trimmings on the dashboard and red contrast stitching all-round the cabin.

Powertrains

Powering the updated Corolla Cross is a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine producing 103 kW at 6400 r/min and 172 Nm of peak torque at 4000 r/min. The self-charging hybrid models develop 72 kW at 5200 r/min and 142 Nm at 3600 r/min, with an additional 90 kW available from its electric motor throughout the rev range.

Claimed average fuel consumption is measured at a respective 6.8l/100 km and a wallet-friendly 4.3l/100 km for hybrid versions. Both engines power the front wheels through a CVT transmission’

Updated Corolla Cross model range and pricing

Toyota South Africa is yet to confirm the pricing of the updated Corolla Cross, however here’s how much it costs according to their website:

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R414,800

Corolla Cross 1.8 XS – R452,800

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XS – R494,400

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R501,500

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XR – R545,200

Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-Sport – R518,200

Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV GR-Sport – R561,700

Later on this week, Toyota South Africa will host this year’s annual SOMI (State of the Motoring Industry) where local motoring media will get the opportunity to preview the facelifted Corolla Cross. and get a glimpse of what’s to come during the year. We’ll be in attandance so make sure you stay glued to our social media platforms!