Upgrades for Corolla Cross
Toyota’s Corolla Cross range, which was released here during 2022, has received a facelift, extra features and a GR Sport variant.
The nameplate received a refreshed exterior from May 2025 production. A new front bumper and grille design, exterior colours and specification upgrades feature across the line-up.
In addition, from August production, the previous Limited AWD grade will be replaced by the new GR Sport variant also featuring all-wheel drive.
Andrew Davis, Toyota NZ’s chief strategic officer, says the model fills a niche in the compact SUV market by providing a “versatile vehicle that can be a weekday commuter or family runaround”.
He adds: “The Cross has been a welcome addition to the Corolla family with the convenience of a higher ride and extra cargo space of a compact SUV.”
While the front-wheel-drive GX, GXL and Limited receive new design and safety features, while the GX and GXL also receive driver-assist upgrades. Then there’s the addition of the AWD GR Sport powered by the same two-litre petrol-hybrid system as all variants.
As well as receiving all upgrades for the three Corolla Cross grades, the GR Sport’s on-road performance has been tweaked with a double-wishbone rear suspension and refinements to its electric-power steering for advanced vehicle dynamics.
The GR Sport is based on the former AWD Limited but has exclusive upgrades. These include 19-inch black and machined alloys, red brake callipers, unique front bumper and grille design, and black exterior accents.
Inside, the GR Sport has GR-branded suede and leather-accented seats, sport aluminium pedals, paddle shifter and gun-metal interior ornamentation.
The upgrades to the Corolla GX include a honeycomb bumper and grille which integrates the coloured bumper and grille better into its design.
There are also upgrades to the parking system with a parking-support brake, and four new front and four new rear-parking sensors as well as dual-zone automatic air-conditioning.
Other GXL upgrades include a Qi wireless device charger, front-seat heaters, automatic rain-sensing wipers and vehicle-approach notice.
The Limited, which is now front-wheel drive only, receives front-seat ventilation, combination fabric and leather-accented upholstery, a 12.3-inch full digital meter and power back door with kick sensor.
More details about the upgraded Corolla Cross, including pricing and full specifications, will be announced closer to its New Zealand arrival in the second half of this year.
