Review of the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid GR Sport for sale in South Africa in 2023

When Toyota South Africa Motors launched the Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport in September 2022, it only had a 1.8-litre petrol mill. Since then, a hybrid version of the GR-Sport derivative, called the Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR-Sport, has arrived as part the Corolla Cross range expansion. The hybrid GR-Sport variant – or hybrid GR-S for short – and all the other Corolla Cross derivatives come off the same production lines at Toyota’s Prospecton plant near Durban. ¹

The standard naturally aspirated 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine generates 103 kW power and 172 Nm torque. In contrast, the hybrid powertrain uses a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol mill and a small battery. Total power generated via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is 90 kW. The petrol engine produces a maximum torque of 142 Nm, and the electric motor 163 Nm. ¹

Costing R495 200, the 1.8 Hybrid GR-Sport is the priciest derivative of the Corolla Cross range and is R15 000 more than the 1.8 Hybrid XR. The hybrid GR-S boasts of steering set-ups and a specially tuned suspension. It comes complete with black 18-inch alloy wheels, a black roof, black side-mirror caps, and a sporty version of the grille and front bumper. ¹

The hybrid GR-S has a GR-Sport badge on the tailgate and a faux-diffuser at the rear. The non-hybrid 1.8 GR-S, and the hybrid version come in three colours combined with a black roof. They are Glacier White, Arizona Red and Chromium Silver. ¹

The interior shows more GR-Sport badges, while the leather upholstery has red stitching, unlike the XR’s partial leather. In addition, the interior has a black piano trim, but the appearance of the CVT shift lever and knob differs depending on the models. ¹

Apart from this range’s power train options, exterior colour selection and interior trim staying the same, there are some changes in 2023. For example, hybrid models will have upgraded headlights with blue inserts. With the entry-level Xi, LED headlights will replace halogen ones. ¹

The entry-level Xi will have Toyota’s “Display Audio” system, consisting of an 8-inch touchscreen and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. It also has a voice command option, an upgraded 4.2-inch colour multi-information system, and a camera for reversing. ¹ 

The Toyota Corolla Cross range comes with a standard 6-service or 90 000 km service plan and a 3-year or 100 000 km warranty. The hybrid battery has an 8-year or 195 000 km warranty. ¹

The article reviews the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid GR Sport for sale in South Africa in 2023.¹

Before purchasing your brand-new hybrid GR-S, remember it’s a legal requirement to buy comprehensive car insurance if you use bank finance. If you need more information, contact us at PMD. We’ll provide you with our world-class client service while we present you our affordable car insurance. It comprises comprehensive and customised car insurance with fixed premiums* and reducing excess*. You can buy comprehensive and customised car insurance for cars not exceeding 15 years, but age is no issue with our third-party PLUS car insurance. T’s and C’s apply.