Toyota has introduced the updated Corolla Cross - the crossover version of the Corolla family - into the Irish market, with a starting price of €39,310.
What's new about the Corolla Cross?
You'll notice some styling changes, especially at the front, where there's a new honeycomb grille, and new, sleeker lights giving the Corolla Cross a more expensive look. At the rear, there are new brake lights, while you'll also find off-road-style embossed Corolla Cross logos, and some nice new 18-inch alloy wheels.
Any changes to the inside?
Yes, there are some small and subtle changes, although basically the dashboard and cabin design are lifted from the Corolla hatchback and saloon. There's a new shifter for the CVT automatic gearbox, a larger centre console, a sliding storage box, added phone storage and revised cup holders. More importantly, Toyota has been working on the Corolla Cross's refinement, adding what it calls 'high-damping roof materials', as well as more sound-absorbing material around the air vents. For higher-spec versions, a new triple-layer sound-absorbing structure is also being introduced behind the dashboard.
Toyota has also been working on the safety systems, so the third-generation T-Mate electronic safety setup now receives over-the-air software updates, making it even safer as the car ages.
Any mechanical changes?
On the engine front, no, but arguably they weren't needed. The 140hp 1.8-litre hybrid and the 200hp 2.0-litre hybrid are shared with the Corolla hatch and saloon, as well as the C-HR, and they were both updated relatively recently. Expect emissions to be just over the 100g/km mark, and real-world fuel economy of around 4.5 litres per 100km.
However, there is a new, sporty GR Sport version, which isn't just a badges-and-stickers thing, as it gets suspension lowered by 10mm, as well as sharper-looking 19-inch alloys and a muscular body kit with blacked-out badging. Inside it, you'll find cool Alcantara seat trim and red stitching. The GR Sport also gets a tweaked braking setup, so that when the driver lifts off the throttle in Sport mode, the car automatically enhances deceleration with the electric motor to achieve a sportier braking feel.
What about tech?
The 10.5-inch touchscreen and the 12.3-inch instrument display both now come with more connectivity options and upgraded ambient lighting, while Toyota has fitted some new comfort features, such as an optional heated steering wheel to go with the heated seats.
The latest wireless phone charging technology is included as standard. Android connectivity and charging speed have been substantially improved (1.5 times faster according to Toyota), now matching the Apple CarPlay levels and using the MyToyota app allows owners to monitor and manage key aspects of their vehicle.
Zoë Bradley, Head of Marketing Communications and Corporate Affairs at Toyota Ireland, said: “We're delighted to welcome the newly updated Corolla Cross to Ireland this month. As the world's best-selling car model, the Corolla has long stood as a symbol of Toyota's commitment to quality, durability and reliability, values that continue to resonate strongly with Irish motorists. The Corolla Cross builds on this trusted legacy, offering a versatile and stylish SUV that's perfectly suited to modern family life. With its hybrid credentials, spacious interior, advanced safety features and the latest Toyota technology, it's a great choice for those seeking comfort, lower CO2 emissions, fuel efficiency and peace of mind. And for drivers who crave a sportier edge, the new GR Sport model adds a dynamic and responsive driving experience to the mix.”
Anything else?
If you want to learn more about the updated Toyota Corolla Cross, we have a comprehensive video on the car, which you can find below.