The latest model to receive the GR treatment in Toyota’s line-up is the ever-popular Corolla Cross. This locally-built crossover was brought to market in the final quarter of 2021 and became an instant success story, frequently topping the passenger-vehicle sales charts, while also being crowned as South African Car of the Year (SA COTY).
As part of the continued expansion of the Gazoo Racing (aka GR) brand, the Corolla Cross is the latest model to be adorned with the GR badge.
GR Brand Hierarchy
The GR product hierarchy comprises four levels; represented as a pyramid, the first layer is GR Parts which allows customers to inject their normal model variant with GR flavour, followed by the GR-Sport moniker which offers cosmetic and dynamic handling enhancements (Hilux and Land Cruiser 300). The third tier is occupied by fully-fledged GR performance models (GR86, GR Yaris, GR Supra), while the fourth and final layer is GRMN – which represents the highest level of performance tuning.
Corolla Cross GR-Sport (GR-S)
The Corolla Cross GR-S features a bespoke exterior package, three bi-tone colour options with black-roof treatment, black 18″ alloy wheels, GR badging and unique GR-themed interior accents.
Under the skin, revised suspension componentry and tuning are complemented by a recalibrated power steering module (EPS) to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback and cornering prowess.
The model employs the existing 1.8-litre 2ZR-FE petrol engine, coupled to a CVT transmission with seven pre-programmed ‘steps’ to simulate a close-ratio transmission in manual shifting mode.
Model Line-up & Pricing
Corolla Cross 1.8i GR-S – R 453,200
> Specification aligns to the Xr grade with a small price premium for the GR enhancements
Peace of Mind
All Corolla Cross models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km) and 3-year/100 000km warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).
All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car Wi-Fi allocation, vehicle telematics and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.
