The 2026 Corolla Cross Facelift Reveals Its GR Sporty Side
- The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross facelift introduces subtle styling changes inside and out.
- A new GR Sport trim joins the range with primarily aesthetic upgrades for the model.
- European buyers can choose between a 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter hybrid engine in the new model.
The Toyota Corolla Cross has never been the type of vehicle that sparks the imagination or gets the heart racing, but updates made to it for the 2026 model year do help give it a little more personality. Alongside introducing a slew of upgrades throughout the entire range, Toyota has added a new GR Sport trim to the range. Sadly, it is not a full-blown Gazoo model akin to the Lexus LBX Morizo RR.
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Toyota’s changes start up front, where the 2025 Corolla Cross adopts a honeycomb front grille and modified headlights that look sharper. The most prominent change is the fitment of an LED light bar, although it’s only present on the High grade version.
Read: 2027 Toyota Corolla Cross Could Look Like An EV But Think Like A Prius
At the back, Toyota has made some subtle tweaks as well. The new taillights now include tiny fins, which, according to Toyota, improve stability and aerodynamic performance. We’re a bit skeptical about those “aero fins,” but sure, let’s roll with it. There are also redesigned 18-inch wheels across the range for that extra touch of fresh.
Interior Refinements
Inside, things have been updated with some practical and visually appealing changes. These include a larger center console, a new gear shifter, wireless smartphone charging, a new 10.5-inch infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Toyota is promising a more comfortable ride.
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport
Europe will get two hybrid powertrains options. The base Hybrid 140 features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 138 horsepower. For those looking for a bit more power, the Hybrid 200 steps up with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor combo, pushing out 194 horsepower.
The GR Sport
Then there’s the GR Sport grade. Unfortunately, it does not feature any powertrain upgrades over the standard model, but at least it looks the part. Key changes made include a bespoke front bumper and grille with a similar design to what you’ll find in the current GR Corolla hot hatch. It also sits on distinct 19-inch black wheels and is offered in an exclusive shade of Storm Grey.
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While the engine has been left untouched, some minor performance changes have been made. For example, the suspension has been dropped 0.4 inches (10 mm) and has been tuned for sportier handling. The power steering has also been tweaked, and new paddle shifters come standard. Toyota has also added a Sport Mode and a Snow Extra Mode.
Toyota hasn’t set a specific date for international markets, but the new Corolla Cross will be available in European dealerships by mid-2025. As for the rest of us, we’ll just have to wait and see when it finally makes its way to other regions.
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