NEW TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS: FILLED WITH LIFE
South Africa’s Best-Selling SUV • South Africa’s Best-Selling Hybrid Vehicle • South Africa’s Second-Best Selling Passenger Vehicle
Building on its remarkable success since launch in 2021, the new Toyota Corolla Cross reinforces its status as South Africa’s favourite compact SUV. With over 22,000 units sold last year alone, it now ranks as the country’s best-selling SUV, best-selling hybrid and second-best selling passenger vehicle overall.
According to Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), this refreshed model “introduces a range of exciting improvements,” including updated design cues, enhanced technology, and superior safety features. The Corolla Cross remains at the forefront of Toyota’s sustainability drive too, playing a key role in the company’s carbon-neutral goals. Toyota commands 67% of the local New Energy Vehicle market (2024), with the Corolla Cross Hybrid leading the charge.
Bold New Exterior
A striking, geometric bumper and grille design sets the Corolla Cross apart. Sequential turn signals (XR/GR-S) complement the sleek, redesigned headlamps, while the rear lights now feature a crisp inner lens for sharper uniformity. Two new colours – Brass Gold and Oxide Bronze – join the palette, and a discreet new carbon-neutral badge underscores Toyota’s commitment to sustainability.
(Please note: GR-S models maintain their signature sporty styling and are excluded from the new exterior design update.)
Refined Interior & Convenience
Inside, upgraded materials and detailing deliver a premium feel. Real stitching on the instrument panel, console lid, and high-quality floor carpets (with heel pad) enhance cabin ambience. Practical additions include:
- Electric Parking Brake (standard across the range)
- Rear Occupant Detection for added safety
- USB Type-C ports for modern connectivity
- Reclining rear seats for passenger comfort
The seat trims incorporate sophisticated dark-brown accents, while overall interior colour schemes remain Black and Terra Rosa.
Advanced Technology
A larger, high-resolution Display Audio screen comes standard, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The digitised instrument cluster (XR/GR-S) offers improved clarity and personalised themes. Bluetooth pairing has been refined for easier use, and the new interface allows for multi-touch control and customisable display layouts.
Enhanced Safety & Convenience
- Hands-free Power Back Door + Kick Sensor (XR/GR-S) – a first for Corolla Cross
- Clearer back monitor views and customisable parking modes
- Park Distance Control (standard on Xs, XR, GR-S)
- 360° Panoramic View Monitor (XR/GR-S) for effortless parking
- Toyota Safety Sense (on XR/GR-S): Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Crash (with front cross-traffic alert), Lane Trace Assist, and more
Model Line-up & Pricing
The Corolla Cross continues with two engine options (1.8-litre petrol or 1.8-litre Hybrid) across seven models:
- Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R414,800
- Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs – R452,200
- Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs HEV – R494,400
- Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R501,500
- Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV – R545,200
- Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S – R518,200
- Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S HEV – R561,700
All models include a 6-services/90,000km service plan and a 3-year/100,000km warranty. Hybrid models additionally benefit from an 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery. Extended service and maintenance plans can be purchased through Toyota’s 220-strong dealer network.
Connected Services: MyToyota
Every new Corolla Cross features a built-in connectivity device that, once activated, enables in-car WiFi (with complimentary 25GB data) and a suite of Connect services. By registering for MyToyota, owners can also manage all vehicle-related information and services seamlessly through one digital platform.
A Future-Focused SUV with a Heritage Pedigree
From its bold design to its comprehensive safety features and Toyota’s legendary QDR (Quality, Durability, Reliability), the new Corolla Cross sets the benchmark in South Africa’s compact SUV segment. As both an industry-leading hybrid and an emblem of Toyota’s forward-thinking sustainability goals, the Corolla Cross continues the iconic Corolla legacy into a new era of mobility.
Images : © Toyota SA
