- Corolla Cross GR Sport now on sale in NZ for $54,990.
- The only Cross model with E-Four all-wheel drive.
- Bespoke Sport mode, retuned suspension feature.
Toyota is promising the new GR Sport version of the Corolla Cross just launched in New Zealand is "more than just a styling exercise". It's now on sale at $54,990, a $3k premium over the Limited model.
The Corolla Cross is from Gazoo Racing's second-tier lineup (hence the "GR Sport" monicker); not a fully developed GR model like the Yaris or Corolla, but an existing production car that gets certain powertrain and suspension tweaks. And yes... styling too.
The Corolla Cross GR Sport shares its 2.0-litre hybrid engine with the rest of the range, making the same 146kW (combined)/188Nm. However, it's also the only model to have AWD, via Toyota's E-Four technology (with an electric motor driving the rear wheels).
The GR Sport has two unique drive modes. Sport increases engine revs and sharpens the electric motor's power delivery, as well as enhancing deceleration when the driver lifts off the throttle.
Snow Extra mode optimises the AWD system for driving in low-traction conditions.
Toyota says an increase in body rigidity is "at the heart of the GR Sport transformation". It has added a rear bumper reinforcement to the lower back of the chassis, to minimise body flex during cornering.
The Corolla Cross GR Sport also features a tuned suspension system. The front MacPherson struts and the rear double-wishbone suspension have been modified, along with GR-specific power steering calibration.
The GR Sport has a firmer front lower arm bushing, shock absorbers with built-in rebound springs, retuned springs and a 10mm lower centre of gravity. The 19-inch machined alloys wear Yokohama Advan Fleva 225/45R19 tyres.
There's a unique front bumper and "GR functional matrix grille", with bi-beam LED headlamps. It has blacked-out exterior accents, including mirror caps and window mouldings, and red-painted brake callipers featuring the GR logo.
Inside, there are bolstered front seats, leather-wrapped three-spoke GR steering wheel with paddle shifters, aluminium pedals and gunmetal accents.
Monotone exterior finishes include Frosted White, Shadow Platinum, Ash, Ink, and Emotional Red. Two-tone options (an extra $1000) pair Ebony with Emotional Red or Frosted White, while an exclusive Ebony/Ash combination is reserved for GR Sport.