In the very early part of 2021 Toyota South Africa announced an expansion of its existing Corolla range. The Quest, Sedan and Hatch were joined by a fourth body style, that of a crossover, called the Cross (read our original story here). The time has now come for a mid-life facelift. With that in mind a refreshed Corolla Cross was shown earlier this week.

It is unsurprising to learn that the Corolla Cross is SA’s best-selling SUV. Over 22 000 units were sold in 2024. That’s over 1 800 units per month. Some OEMs would kill to have that as a yearly sales figure. The Corolla Cross also happens to be the second-best selling passenger car in the local market, only outdone by the VW Polo. Additionally, the Cross hybrid is the best selling model with this form of powertrain.

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New Look

The refreshed Corolla Cross has quite a modern and more distinctive appearance. This is most evident up front where there is a bold new grille treatment with a geometric pattern across its width. Newly designed headlamps complement the restyled front bumper. These feature sequential turn signals (on XR and GR-S derivatives). The XR and GR-S versions also boast dual-beam LED lamps and LED daytime running lights. Newly designed taillamps are also part of the new look.

While the skin has been given a makeover, the refreshed Corolla Cross maintains the same engine line-up as before. A 1,8-litre normally aspirated unit and a 1,8-litre hybrid are on offer. The hybrid version has 90 kW, with claimed average fuel consumption of 4,3/100 km. The normal ICE version has 103 kW along with 172 N.m of torque.

New Interior Features

Updates in the cabin of the refreshed Corolla Cross include the addition of an electric parking brake, USB Type-C ports, and rear-seat occupant detection. Reclining rear seats and newly designed seat coverings are also part of the upgrade. Other changes include a larger infotainment screen now with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. XR and GR-S versions also benefit from a digital instrument cluster.

The range starts with the Xi level. This version has keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, rear park distance control, LED headlights and five airbags (front, side and driver’s knee). To this Xs versions add an uprated infotainment screen, wireless CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, front park distance control and leather upholstery among others. Top of the range XR and GR-S variants come with seven airbags, auto high-beam activation, a handsfree powered tailgate, panoramic view monitor, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a full digital instrument cluster. Furthermore owners benefit from assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping system and blind spot monitor.

Refreshed Corolla Cross Prices

  • Xi – R414 800
  • Xs – R452 200
  • Xs HEV – R494 400
  • XR – R501 500
  • XR HEV – R545 200
  • GR-S – R518 200
  • GR-S HEV – R561 700