By Nkosinathi Manyika
The all-new Toyota Corolla Cross is now available at NTT Toyota Eswatini after it made its official debut in Johannesburg, South Africa in January 2025.
According to Gideon Tolken, NTT Toyota Eswatini Managing Director, this updated Corolla Cross has a lot of new features.
“The updated Corolla Cross is now styled with a more modern look, complete with a new ‘borderless’ grille, as well as a host of other additional new features. However, the model range packages remain identical to the original outgoing version, while the fuel consumption is the same as the previous model,” he said.
Additional information sourced from www.cars.co.za, states that the popular XR package has been upgraded with some new features, such as a powered tailgate, Panoramic View Monitor, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while the sporty 1.8 GR-S variant does not feature the same exterior updates as the other models.
One of the biggest changes in the facelifted Corolla Cross is noticeable at the front end of the vehicle, where the new “integrated geometric bumper” incorporates a borderless grille with honeycomb elements and also features a slim upper bar flanked by newly designed LED headlights with sequential turn signals (on the XR). At the rear, the Cross has new taillight lens designs that are featured on select models.
Toyota has retained its proven powertrain options, with the same reliable engines and continuously variable transmission (CVT) gearboxes as before. The 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine produces 103kW and 172Nm of torque, while the 1.8-litre hybrid variant delivers a combined system output of 90kW, boasting an impressive claimed average fuel consumption of just 4.3 litres per 100km.
Toyota has also added two new exterior color options to the mix, in the form of Desert Gold and Oxide Bronze, which provide buyers with a unique luxurious feel and look. As before, the Xi and XS models are paired with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the XR and GR-Sport feature 18-inch rims. Worth noting is that the GR-Sport models have not received the newly introduced cosmetic updates.
Interior changes in the revised Corolla Cross range have been kept minimal, but select models now offer the option of “Terra Rosa” red leather seat trim as an alternative to the regular standard black offering.
Standard features on the entry-level Corolla Cross Xi model include an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The Xi also comes with manual air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, rear park distance control, LED headlights, and five airbags (front, side, and driver’s knee).
The mid-spec XS trim has been upgraded and now includes a 10-inch infotainment screen, wireless CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, front park distance control, and rain sensors, leather trim for the seats and steering wheel, and roof rails, among other additions.