Toyota recently updated its award-winning, locally produced Corolla Cross compact family car. In this in-depth review, Jacob Moshokoa highlights the updates to the model and considers why the Toyota Corolla Cross attracts so many buyers.
Despite stiff competition from traditional rivals and a slew of new competitor products offered by Chinese brands, the Corolla Cross remains a regular sales chart leader. The model, backed by Toyota’s excellent after-sales support, was named the 2024/25 CarsAwards: Best Compact Family Car in SA.
Exterior and Design Updates
The first thing you’ll notice on the facelifted-for-2025 Toyota Corolla Cross is the redesigned front grille, now more seamlessly matched with the car’s paintwork, giving the crossover a tidy, up-to-date look.
The addition of darker-tinted taillights further refines the rear view, and the new electrically powered tailgate makes it easier to load groceries, luggage, or whatever else you have to haul in the load bay…
While not radically different from before, these changes help to freshen the Corolla Cross’ broad appeal.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the 2025-spec Corolla Cross benefits from the introduction of a digital driver display, making crucial information easier to read while on the move. The rest of the cabin layout remains simple and accessible – it prioritises everyday usability – but if you look closely, you’ll notice the detail updates.
The main infotainment system has a 10.1-inch touchscreen, but while it has gained Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, the so-so camera resolution and reliance on physical buttons for the audio feel somewhat outdated compared to newer offerings. The switch to an electronic parking brake, which replaces the previous manual mechanism, brings added convenience and a modern touch, however.
Passengers are treated to convenient features such as USB-C charging ports in the back, ample cup holders, and a new, darker headliner that gives the interior a more premium feel.
Engine, Performance, and Efficiency
Assembled in Prospecton, Durban, the Corolla Cross is available with either Toyota’s 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine or a petrol-electric hybrid with the same displacement. The 1.8 Hybrid XR is particularly noted for its ability to switch smoothly between electric and gasoline power in urban environments.
Real-world fuel consumption remains impressive at 5.4- to 5.6 L/100 km, ensuring that the Corolla Cross stands out for efficiency. The ride quality is generally comfortable, but the CVT can become noisy under heavy acceleration, and the Toyota performs best around town rather than on long, high-speed trips.
What does the facelifted Toyota Corolla Cross cost in SA?
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi | R414 800 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS | R452 200 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XS | R494 400 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR | R501 500 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 GR-Sport | R518 200 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XR | R545 200 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid GR-Sport | R561 700 |
New Toyota Corolla Cross Specs & Prices in South Africa
Find a new/used Toyota Corolla Cross listed for sale on Cars.co.za
The prices (July 2025) include Toyota’s 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/unlimited km hybrid battery warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
This review by Jacob Moshokoa (shown above) highlights that the Toyota Corolla Cross remains a highly recommended “medium” crossover, now refreshed with updates that enhance its everyday usefulness.
The top-selling Japanese brand has kept its compact family car competitive and appealing for South African families who value practicality, efficiency, reliability and above all, good after-sales support.
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