First Look: Toyota’s Updated Corolla Cross and the Hot New GR SPORT

Toyota is giving its popular Corolla Cross SUV a fresh update for Europe, blending family-friendly practicality with some significant refinements. And for those craving a sportier edge, there’s big news: a GR SPORT grade is joining the lineup for the first time. This latest iteration builds on the Corolla’s incredible legacy as the most sold car worldwide since 1966, known for its Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR).

Refined Style and Smart Tech Upgrades
Right off the bat, you’ll notice a refined new look tailored for European tastes. The front gets a stylish honeycomb grille that doesn’t just look good but also helps improve airflow to the engine. Higher grades feature new adaptive high beam (AHS) technology for better visibility, and redesigned lights front and rear add a touch of sophistication. The rear lamps even incorporate fins designed to enhance aerodynamic performance and stability. Around the back, an embossed Corolla Cross logo gives it a unique identity, and robust 18-inch alloy wheels contribute to a stronger stance.

Step inside, and the cabin feels modern and refreshed. Toyota has updated practical areas like the gear shift knob and the larger centre console, which now includes additional smartphone storage, a sliding storage box, and a revised cup holder design. Tech gets a bump too, with the latest wireless charging technology included as standard. Android users will be happy to hear that connectivity and charging speeds are now 1.5 times faster, matching Apple CarPlay levels. The Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system with a 10.5-inch high-definition touchscreen is standard. Plus, in most European markets, a 12.3-inch fully digital combimeter is standard across all grades. For extra comfort on higher grades, you can find upgraded ambient lighting, heated steering wheel, and heated seats.

A Quieter, More Confident Drive
Toyota has worked on making the ride more comfortable and peaceful. They’ve added high damping materials to the roof bond to cut down on rain and road noise. Extra material in the rear ventilator area helps reduce noise and vibration for rear passengers. And on higher grades, a new three-layer inner dash silencer helps minimise engine noise.

For challenging winter conditions, the Corolla Cross in intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD-i) specification pioneers a new Snow Extra mode. This mode is designed to enhance stability and control on snow-covered roads. It uses the rear motor to help prevent wheel spin and maintain grip during acceleration, deceleration, braking, cornering, and lane changes, aiming to give drivers intuitive control even when things get slippery.
The Corolla Cross continues to offer Toyota’s fifth generation hybrid system, available in Hybrid 140 or Hybrid 200 specifications, providing a choice of performance levels alongside efficiency. This makes it a practical entry point to electrification, part of Toyota’s broader approach towards carbon neutrality which also includes the C-HR hybrid and plug-in hybrid, and the battery electric C-HR+.

Enter the GR SPORT: Dynamic Style and Performance
Here’s where things get exciting for driving enthusiasts! For the first time, the Corolla Cross range includes a GR SPORT grade. This isn’t just about looks; it’s tuned for a more agile, responsive, and fun-to-drive experience.

Visually, the GR SPORT stands out with fully machined 19-inch black alloy wheels, a dedicated front grille design, and a glossy black Toyota logo. It’s even available in an exclusive Storm Grey bi-tone colour scheme. Inside, the sporty feel continues with seats upholstered in BRIN･NAUB®, a suede-like synthetic leather, featuring GR logos and emotive red stitching.

Performance-wise, the GR SPORT gets a specific setup. The suspension has been tuned and lowered by 10 mm. There’s also power steering tuning and paddle shifts for a more engaging feel. A unique Sport Mode, implemented for the first time on this model, provides faster acceleration response by increasing engine idling speed. It also optimises deceleration when you lift off the throttle for a sportier braking sensation. And yes, the Snow Extra mode is also included on the GR SPORT version for winter confidence.

Safety and Availability
Safety is a high priority, with an elevated level of safety and convenience coming standard via Toyota T-Mate. This system includes the third generation of Toyota Safety Sense plus additional advanced driving and parking assistance systems, all benefiting from over-the-air updates.
The new Corolla Cross is expected to start arriving in European dealerships in summer 2025, with the dynamic GR SPORT grade following in autumn 2025.