Toyota has given its hit Corolla Cross some updated GR-S treatment. What started life as a sensible crossover in 2021 has now become the number one SUV in Toyota’s Mzansi line-up. The 2022 GR-S version kicked off the “GR-S attitude” without ruining the formula that made it the best-seller that it is. With a commanding 30% market share in its segment (averaging 1 849 units a month in 2025), and the title of “best-selling hybrid” in Mzansi, the Corolla Cross isn’t just another tall Corolla.
To be fair, the GR-S isn’t some fire-breathing Gazoo Racing monster like we see in the GR Yaris or GR Supra. Toyota didn’t touch the powertrains at all. Under the bonnet you still get the same two familiar options, namely the peppy 1.8-litre petrol and the efficient hybrid system. In the petrol-only version, maximum power comes to 103kW and torque of 173Nm, while the Hybrid delivers 90kW and 142Nm. So then no extra horses, no louder exhaust, no drama. This GR-S is all about that sporty look. The new black mesh front grille sits up front like a statement piece, flanked by sharp LED headlights and daytime running lights that give the face a meaner, more purposeful stare. Move around the sides and you’ll spot 18-inch alloy wheels and LED rear lights, while the three striking bi-tone colour options make sure the Cross stand out.
Inside, the GR-S treatment continues. Black leather dominates, stitched with bold red accents that run across the seats and dashboard. Red seatbelts add a flash of motorsport flair, while the aluminium sports foot pedals give the left foot something proper to grip on. The GR-S petrol model even throws in paddle shifters behind the wheel so you can take manual control when the mood strikes. Every model now gets the fresh centre console layout too, which is cleaner, more modern, and easier to live with. Such a console consists of a 25.7cm touch screen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, Bluetooth, radio, mobile phone sat nav and other features, air vents, air con controls and others.
We drove the car around the Tshwane area in Gauteng, myself and my driving partner Sheryl Goldstuck. In the end, it still drives exactly like the Corolla Cross that thousands have already bet on previously. The hybrid version of course feels noticeably more responsive off the line, zipping away from the lights with that instant electric torque. I found the CVT gearbox to remain smooth enough at lower revs, keeping things quiet and relaxed exactly when you want it to be. Push it harder though, and yes, it still bites a little at the top end; that familiar CVT character is still there. Again, don’t go expecting snaps, crackles and pops just because it wears a GR-S badge. This is a body kit.
Toyota says the target buyer is the 30 to 45-year-old Mzansi person. These are the folks who’ve outgrown the hatchback phase, but are also not ready for a bakkie or larger SUV.
And let’s not forget the big local angle. Every single Corolla Cross GR-S rolling out of the showroom is built right here in KwaZulu Natal, at Toyota’s Plant in Prospecton, Durban. That obviously means jobs stay, that means local content, and that means the car feels like it actually belongs on our roads.
Pricing is quite sensible too. For that money you’re getting Toyota’s legendary reliability, hybrid efficiency that laughs at fuel prices, and a crossover that actually looks good.
Updated Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S Prices
GR-S – R527 000
GR-S HEV Hybrid – R569 700
