A direct response to the burgeoning popularity of affordable Chinese-imported SUVs, Toyota has revised its locally built Corolla Cross to continue consolidating its position as South Africa’s best-selling SUV.
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Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV Fast Facts
- Price: R545 200
- Engine: 1.8-litre naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder hybrid
- Transmission: CVT
- Power: 90 kW + electric
- Torque: 142 N.m + electric
- Top speed: 170 km/h
- Fuel consumption: 4.3 L/100 km
- Emissions: 98 g/km
What are we driving and why is it significant?
The Corolla is to Toyota what the Beetle was for Volkswagen or the 500 for Fiat; a nameplate etched in history serving as affordable mobility for the masses. Over its half-century lifespan, it has endured trends and catered to ever-evolving market demands and in doing so has become the best-selling model ever made. First a sedan, second a hatchback and in more recent history an SUV, which has become a locally-manufactured staple wearing the Cross suffix.
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The few frills and honest motoring may not garner as much appeal as the hi-tech Chinese models, but South Africa’s largest dealer network and reputable reliability will ensure it remains a sensible consideration in the densely populated pack. Despite this, the moniker was introduced into the local market towards the tail end of 2021 and this will represent its first significant update across the range, realigning it with fresh-faced beguiling rivals.
Related: ROAD TEST: Toyota Corolla Cross 1,8 Hybrid XS CVT
Lest we forget, while the produce from the People’s Republic has earned a considerable market share in the entry-level SUV space, particularly with the Tiggo 4 Pro and Jolion lineups, the Corolla Cross remains Mzansi’s favourite high-riding model. In numbers, it sold 1 526 units in December and managed a whopping 21 861 throughout 2024, second in the entire passenger vehicle category only to another locally built and venerated model; the Polo Vivo, which managed 25 913.
What is the Corolla Cross like to drive?
My first interaction behind the wheel of any Corolla Cross, I only had the reports of my colleagues and other media professionals to serve as a benchmark for what to expect. That benchmark was high and despite entering the cabin to what can be described as fairly mundane in comparison to the tech-heavy and tactile surfaces of Chinese rivals, the first few kilometres behind the wheel very quickly substantiated why it is held in such high regard, reaffirmed by the impressive volumes it grosses each month.
Updated in direct response to the burgeoning Chinese SUVs flooding the SA market, not much has changed under the bonnet. It can be had in either a 1.8-litre four-cylinder or the same powertrain albeit with added electrical assistance. Both box-fresh 1.8 XR HEV and Xs models were seamless – why fix what ain’t broke some colleagues remarked. Despite a preference for traditional cog swappers, the CVT gels well with the rest of the moving parts, even at air-sapping Johannesburg altitude for the motor sans additional breathing apparatus. The hybrid registered around 6 L/100 km and the Xs managed around 9 L/100 km (worth noting less than 200 km on the odometer). The suspension is pliant where it needs to be and the front end manages sudden direction changes surprisingly well. Compared to its direct rivals taking the entry-level SUV market by storm, the calibration and brake sensitivity is spot on. Fit for purpose, this could very well be the best commuter SUV out there for buyers keen on value for money. Little surprise then that it has collected a considerable amount of awards silverware since its debut.
What is new on the Corolla Cross?
Things don’t get too complicated for its updates. As mentioned, the powertrain remains the same and all revisions seek to bring the nearly 5-year-old model back into the fore. The exterior gains a Lexus-esque honeycomb grille, except for the more imposing GR-S. Flanking this centrepiece are redesigned headlights and towards the top of the lineup are sequential turn signals too. Buyers can also opt for Oxide Bronze and Brass Gold when making their purchase.
Related: Toyota Confirms Four Refreshed Models for SA at SOMI
As said before, it wasn’t broken so not much needed to be changed. The interior has received subtle yet substantial appointments for a more compelling product at that half million rand price point. While basic, the soft-touch materials and genuine stitching do imbue the model with pleasant comforts, it was the tactile volume control and air conditioning buttons that resonated with me in a sea of ever-minimal cabins. Looking at the centre console, there is a USB Type-C port ahead of the gear lever and an electric parking brake replaces the foot brake from before. Another boon for ingress is the inclusion of an electrical tailgate on top-spec models. On the XR levels of trim, a judicious digital driver’s cluster takes the fore while the infotainment screen can be configured but it does not include wireless smartphone charging and Android Auto can only be accessed via cable (while Apple CarPlay can be wireless).
These small tech details are where the revered SUV falls short in its bid to comfortably quash its subsidised Chinese rivals. Other examples include a low-resolution reverse camera, whereas similarly specced rivals include full 360-degree access and park distance control.
How much does the Corolla Cross cost?
With the latest update, the Corolla Cross has seen a price increase for the better-equipped models in the lineup while the entry-level derivatives remain the same as before.
- 1.8 Xi CVT — R414 800
- 1.8 XS CVT — R452 200
- 1.8 HEV XS CVT — R494 400
- 1.8 XR CVT — R501 500
- 1.8 GR-Sport CVT — R518 200
- 1.8 HEV XR CVT — R545 200
- 1.8 HEV GR-Sport — R561 700
Related: Updated Toyota Corolla Cross — Pricing and specs
All Toyota Corolla Cross models come standard with 6-services/90 000 km service plan and a 3-year /100 000 km warranty. HEV models carry an 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery.
What are the Corolla Cross’ rivals?
Mentioned throughout the press conference, Toyota acknowledges the fruitful competition the Chinese have brought in the SUV market with offerings like the Tiggo 4 Pro and Jolion however there are other models prospective buyers will look at when shopping in this segment. All hailing from the East, products like the Kia Seltos, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Creta and Suzuki Grand Vitara all play around the same price point and provide equally as compelling options with commendable aftersales support and reliability.
Verdict
It isn’t difficult to see why the Corolla has become the best-selling moniker of all time when the Cross offshoot continues to cater to market demands with its minimal frills and focused approach to mass mobility. The subtle yet substantial tech updates may not have it leading the fore against the Chinese, but the pleasant ride quality and minimal effort behind the wheel will likely ensure this continues consolidating its position at the top.
