Corolla Cross Revamp

Corolla Cross Update

The Toyota Corolla Cross has long been a sensible choice in the compact SUV segment but has lacked a certain flair. The latest facelift hitting the Japanese market offers a range of upgrades aimed at injecting some excitement into this practical vehicle. One of the standout additions is the GR Sport trim, bringing along performance-inspired aesthetic tweaks.

GR Sport Trim

The GR Sport trim adds an aggressive bodykit, black 19-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers, and a retuned suspension that lowers the ride height by about 0.4 inches. These visual and structural changes aim to offer a sportier demeanor, much like what one would expect from a hot hatch. The interior gets sporty bucket seats with suede-like upholstery and GR Sport branding.

Local Flavor

Japanese buyers enjoy some exclusive features like the “Snow Extra” mode for the E-Four all-wheel-drive system and a clever “Signal Road Projection” feature, which uses the turn signals to project directional arrows on the road. These innovations are coupled with a revised front badge style unique to non-GR Toyotas in Japan.

Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the GR Sport is powered by a self-charging hybrid system featuring a “high-output” 2.0-liter engine. The energy is managed by a 10-speed sequential transmission, distributing power to all corners via the E-Four system. This setup offers a bit more kick than the standard 1.8-liter hybrid options available in other trims.

Price and Availability

The GR Sport hits the Japanese market on August 4 and starts at ¥3,895,000, roughly translating to $27,200. For those looking for a standard specification, the Corolla Cross begins at ¥2,760,000 or about $19,300 for the base front-wheel-drive model.

Customization Options

Toyota offers a plethora of accessories to let buyers further personalize their Corolla Cross. The GR Parts catalog allows for additional bodykit enhancements and performance parts, such as a sturdier chassis bracing. Meanwhile, Modellista offers a “Tech Elegant Style” package that focuses on elegant aero components like body-colored bumper extensions and chrome trim, pricing these upgrades at around $2,200 for aero parts and $2,000 for unique wheels.

All these enhancements position the Corolla Cross as more than just a sensible choice; they elevate it to something that can capture attention as well. While American buyers will miss out on this exact setup, it’s exciting to see the Corolla Cross evolving with such a sporty attitude overseas.