Toyota Malaysia has been putting a notable number of Corolla Cross onto the roads of Malaysia. Although their existing lineup has been well-received by the majority of Malaysian consumers, Toyota has aimed to infuse a sportier element to captivate those seeking a more dynamic family car. Thus, they’ve unveiled the Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport, an endeavor to infuse the Corolla Cross with the performance-driven know-how gleaned from their Gazoo Racing program. This time round, I will delve  into the Corolla Cross GR Sport, assessing whether the application of GR magic has truly elevated its dynamic potential.

The Corolla Cross GR Sport sports a noticeably enhanced exterior, exuding a decidedly sportier aura. It immediately stands out from the standard Corolla Cross with its more muscular appearance, largely due to the two-tone exterior color scheme. Irrespective of your chosen body color, the Corolla Cross GR Sport flaunts glossy black roof, front grille, and wing mirror covers. Furthermore, the front grille boasts a unique design setting it apart from other Corolla Cross variants. The front bumper follows suit, diverging from the norm and amplifying the sporty character.

Moving to the rear, the Corolla Cross GR Sport still retains some of its characteristic rounded aesthetics, albeit with an effort to add a sportier touch. Toyota has swapped the colored tail lights for clear cover taillights, although some may find this modification reminiscent of an aftermarket addition. However, the revisions to the rear bumper are tasteful, effectively enhancing the overall sporty appearance.

In addition to these changes, the Corolla GR Sport features a range of cosmetic upgrades exclusive to this model. The vehicle proudly displays GR badges throughout, replacing the chrome D-pillar trim with a sporty black finish that complements the aesthetic. To complete the look, the Corolla Cross GR Sport is equipped with dual-tone 18-inch rims, wrapped in 225/50 R18 tires.

Inside, the Corolla Cross GR Sport introduces more subtle alterations, yet it doesn’t neglect the incorporation of GR elements within the cabin. These subtle enhancements encompass the GR start button, GR badges embroidered on the front seat headrests, and a set of GR-specific carpets. The seats also benefit from red stitching to enhance the interior’s overall appeal. While the Corolla Cross GR Sport does not come with paddle shifters, I was somehow looking for it in this vehicle.

Under the hood, the Corolla Cross GR Sport retains the 1.8L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, coupled with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). This engine generates 139PS of power and 172 Nm of peak torque, enabling the Corolla Cross GR Sport to reach a top speed of 185 km/h. Performance-wise, this powertrain closely mirrors the regular Corolla Cross, and I still prefer the petrol version over the hybrid version for a more engaging driving experience.

While the powertrain remains largely unaltered, the Corolla Cross GR Sport exhibits improved handling compared to its standard counterpart. This enhancement starts with the chassis, as the GR team has reinforced it by installing a chassis brace in the center of the vehicle. This added rigidity results in a stiffer chassis, ultimately enhancing the vehicle’s handling.

In terms of suspension, adjustments have been made to complement the chassis strengthening. The suspension remains comfortable but displays a newfound sophistication in absorbing road imperfections. The reduction in body roll during cornering further elevates the vehicle’s sporty handling characteristics. Additionally, the GR team has reprogrammed the electric power steering to offer drivers a more connected feel from the front wheels.

Similar to other Corolla Cross variants, the Corolla Cross GR Sport comes equipped with a comprehensive array of safety and driver assistance systems. These features encompass seven airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Emergency Brake Signal (ESS), Drive Start Control, and a Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS).

Priced at RM 142,000.00, the Corolla Cross GR Sport represents the highest-end Corolla Cross variant available in Malaysia. Toyota’s enhancements have undoubtedly added to the vehicle’s appeal, making it an even more enjoyable SUV to drive. With these improvements, the Corolla Cross now feels ready to handle even more power than its current engine can deliver. We can only hope that Toyota will introduce the Dynamic Force 2.0L engine for the Corolla Cross in the future, further solidifying its connection with the Gazoo Racing nameplate.

Check out full photo album here.

Can check out the video review of the petrol Corolla Cross here: