2026 Corolla Cross GR SPORT Grade Facelift | FIRSTLOOK!

The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross has received a facelift, introducing a new GR Sport grade to the lineup. Here's a breakdown of what we know:
GR Sport Grade Details:
Sporty Aesthetics: The GR Sport features a unique front bumper and grille inspired by the GR Corolla, along with distinctive 19-inch black alloy wheels and GR Sport badging. An exclusive "Storm Grey" bi-tone color scheme is also available in some markets.
Interior Enhancements: Inside, you'll find seats upholstered in a "suede-like synthetic leather" with GR logos and red stitching. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped with silver stitching and piano black accents, and the shift lever also features leather trim. The push-start button includes a GR logo, and the interior floor carpet also sports a GR emblem.
Performance Tweaks: While the engine itself doesn't receive an upgrade, the GR Sport benefits from a suspension lowered by 10 mm (0.4 inches) and tuned for sportier handling. The power steering has also been tweaked for quicker response, and paddle shifters are standard. New driving modes, including "Sport" and "Snow Extra," have been added. The "Sport" mode provides faster acceleration response and optimized deceleration for a sportier braking feel.
Drivetrain: In Australia, the GR Sport is expected to be all-wheel drive. It's anticipated to continue with the existing hybrid powertrain.
Other 2026 Corolla Cross Updates (Applicable to all grades):
Exterior Styling: The facelift includes a new honeycomb-style grille and sharper, more modern headlights. Higher trim levels feature a full-width LED light bar across the front. Minor tweaks have been made to the taillights, integrating small fins for claimed aerodynamic benefits. New 18-inch wheel designs are also introduced across the range.
Interior Improvements: The interior sees upgrades like a larger central control unit, a redesigned gear shifter, wireless smartphone charging, a bigger 10.5-inch infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Higher grades may also offer upgraded ambient lighting and heated steering wheel and seats.
Technology: The updated Corolla Cross includes Toyota T-Mate, which offers over-the-air updates. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected on the infotainment system.
Release Timing:
The updated Corolla Cross, including the GR Sport grade, is expected to arrive in European dealerships by mid-2025.
In Australia, the upgraded Corolla Cross is slated for arrival in the second half of 2025.
Toyota South Africa anticipates the refreshed GR Sport for introduction in 2026.
It's important to note that specific features and availability may vary depending on the market. More detailed specifications and pricing will likely be announced closer to the launch in each region.