New Toyota Corolla Cross, more practicality and style: there will also be the GR SPORT

The new Toyota Corolla Cross combines advanced technology, hybrid efficiency and a modern design with an SUV character that can also fit into an urban environment. This vehicle reflects Toyota's core values: quality, durability and reliability over time. So, let's discover all the new features regarding a crossover that, even in our latitudes, has managed to establish itself in a disruptive way.

A model of resounding success

More than 55 million Toyota Corollas have been put on the road since its introduction in 1966, making it the world’s best-selling car and a benchmark for reliability, with so many still on the road today. The versatile new Corolla Cross lives up to this illustrious legacy with its family-friendly practicality, advanced technology – including Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, a key feature since the model’s launch in 2022 – and Toyota T-Mate safety features.

A completely revised design

A refined new look has been specially designed to meet the preferences of European customers. The honeycomb front grille not only gives an elegant and sophisticated impression, but also helps improve airflow to the engine. New Adaptive High Beam (AHS) technology on the Premium trim ensures optimum visibility, while an LED light line on the grille evenly illuminates the entire front. Redesigned rear lamps feature fins that contribute to stability and control of the vehicle while improving aerodynamic performance. The embossed rear Corolla Cross logo emphasises a distinctive identity, while new 18-inch alloy wheels provide a more purposeful look.

Inside the spacious cabin, a modern, refreshed design features a new gear knob and larger centre console, which brings practical updates such as an additional smartphone storage area, a sliding glovebox and a revised cupholder design. The latest wireless charging technology comes as standard. Android connectivity and charging speeds have been significantly improved (1.5 times faster) and now match Apple CarPlay levels.

Technology and comfort galore

The Toyota Smart Connect infotainment and multimedia package with a 10.5-inch high-definition touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are standard. Ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel and heated seats are available on almost all versions.

Passengers can enjoy a more comfortable ride thanks to improvements in three distinct areas. The cabin is quieter thanks to the use of sound-absorbing materials near the roof, which reduce rain noise and tyre noise, and additional material in the centre area near the rear vents reduces noise and vibration for rear passengers. Starting with the Icon grade, a new three-layer panel inside the dashboard minimises engine noise.

Engines and traction

The Toyota Corolla Cross is offered in Hybrid 140 or Hybrid 200 variants, offering hybrid versatility and efficiency with a choice of performance levels and providing convenient access to electrification that complements Toyota’s multi-path approach to carbon neutrality. In addition to the Corolla Cross Hybrid, Toyota’s formidable C-segment SUV range also includes the Toyota C-HR – available as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid – and the recently announced battery-electric Toyota C-HR+.

In AWD-i configuration with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive , the new Corolla Cross previews the new Snow Extra mode, designed to increase stability and control on snow-covered roads. True to the Corolla Cross' SUV character, Snow Extra mode keeps the vehicle firmly on course during acceleration, deceleration, braking, cornering and lane changes, using the rear engine to prevent wheel slip and maintain grip, giving the driver intuitive control even in the most difficult winter conditions.

The sportiest version

Among the most significant innovations of the new Toyota Corolla Cross, the GR SPORT trim makes its debut in its line-up, bringing with it a more responsive, agile and engaging drive, enriched by very aggressive and charismatic aesthetic details. The finely crafted 19-inch black alloy wheels, the dedicated front grille design and the glossy black Toyota logo give it a bold look. All this is completed by the exclusive Storm Grey two-tone livery. Inside, the BRIN – NAUB upholstery, a synthetic leather similar to suede, the GR logos and the contrasting red stitching on the seats complete a dynamic and sporty atmosphere.

For the GR SPORT trim, the chassis has been revised with a specific suspension calibration and a 10 mm reduction in ride height, while the refinement of the electric steering and the presence of paddles on the steering wheel contribute to a more engaging and exciting drive. An exclusive Sport mode also makes its debut, which optimises acceleration responsiveness by increasing the engine idle speed, ensuring a quicker response to throttle opening. The deceleration phase has also been optimised: when the accelerator pedal is lifted, Sport mode automatically increases deceleration to offer a sportier braking sensation.

For greater stability and control on snow-covered surfaces, Snow Extra mode is also available on the GR SPORT AWD-i model. An enhanced level of safety and comfort is offered as standard thanks to the Toyota T-Mate package, which supports over-the-air updates. This system integrates the third generation of Toyota Safety Sense with additional advanced driving and parking assistance technologies.

When it arrives

The new Toyota Corolla Cross will be available at European dealerships starting in summer 2025, while the GR SPORT version will arrive in the fall. To find out the price list, we will have to wait a little longer, when Toyota itself will release more precise information on the matter. In the meantime, let's enjoy the preview of this long-awaited model that could conquer the Italian public even more forcefully, significantly fascinated by this type of high-wheeled vehicle.