First introduced in 2021, the Toyota Corolla Cross quickly attracted the attention of local buyers and it wasn’t long before it became the most popular compact SUV in a very competitive segment and also South Africa’s second best selling passenger vehicle.

In fact, last year 22,000 units found a home and what makes it an even more compelling purchase is that it’s locally built.

It’s received an exterior and interior refresh with all the oily bits remaining unchanged and the Xi, XS, XR and GR-Sport line-up stays the same as well.

There are still two drivetrain options to choose from: either a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 103kW and 172Nm or a 1.8-litre hybrid with the electric motor adding an additional 90kW depending on the battery’s state of charge. Both are paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

As new energy vehicles (NEVs) start to play an ever increasing role in vehicle manufacturing and buyers’ purchasing decisions, the Corolla Cross Hybrid has played its part by securing Toyota 67 percent of the local NEV market.

The most obvious change is the front end with an eye-catching new grille design except in GR-S spec.

The headlights have also been redesigned and in XR and GR-S trim receive Bi-Beam LED lights, sequential indicators and crystal-like LED daytime running lights, while the rear lighting has also been updated.

Brass Gold and Oxide Bronze has been added to the colour palette.

Toyota have taken note of and acted on customer feedback as well as what Chinese brands are offering and improved the interior offerings. More often than not, buyers are now making their selection based on what technology and “cool” additions they get for their money.

Gone are the days (mostly) of performance, elegant exterior design and handling characteristics being top of the list when it comes to purchasing.

From XS grade up, there’s a bigger 10-inch high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system with improved Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity. It now includes multi-touch control with a soft-touch interface, an enhanced end-user interface and three display options.

The XR and GR-S versions get a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be personalised to suit your preferences.

Apart from updated tech the interior features premium materials with real stitching on the instrument panel and console lid, high-quality floor carpets and a heel pad.

The footbrake has been replaced with an electric parking brake, there are USB Type-C ports, including two for rear passengers and a rear occupant detection system.

The rear seats feature dark brown accents and also recline and there’s a hands-free tailgate in XR and GR-S specification for easy access to the 440-litre boot.

It's a family SUV after all and despite the GR and GR-S moniker, the Toyota Corolla Cross retains its solid and predictable performance.

As with all CVTs there’s a drone when you press the loud pedal and it takes a while to pick up speed but considering the Corolla Cross’ application, it won’t be that often, but once it settles down it cruises along comfortably and quietly.

Overall it’s a well-balanced drive. It does exactly as it says on the box providing a very decent package at a reasonable price.

The ride quality, fuel consumption (4.3l/100km and 6.8l/100km - claimed), non-intrusive safety systems and, thanks to the CVT, the smooth drive, sets it apart from many of its competitors, especially those out of China.

Throw in the fact that it's a Toyota with a dealer network of 220 and my advice would be to look at the Corolla Cross as your first option in this segment.

It comes with a six-services/90,000km service plan and a three-year/100,000km warranty. HEV models carry an eight-year warranty on the hybrid battery. Customers can purchase additional service/maintenance/warranty extensions via the Toyota dealer network.

Toyota Corolla Cross Pricing (February 2025)

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi – R414 800

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs – R452 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 Xs HEV – R494 400

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR – R501 500

Corolla Cross 1.8 XR HEV – R545 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S – R518 200

Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-S HEV – R561 700

*Willem’s rating 4 stars