2025 Toyota Corolla Cross: First Drive Review

Introduction

Toyota’s Corolla Cross, a stalwart of South Africa’s SUV market, has solidified its dominance with a mid-life refresh for 2025. Launched locally on January 28, 2025, the updated model retains its practicality while introducing tech and design tweaks to fend off rising competition from Chinese rivals like the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Haval Jolion. Built at Toyota’s Prospecton plant in Durban, the Corolla Cross remains a key player in Mzansi’s automotive landscape, having sold over 22,000 units in 2024 alone.

Exterior Updates: A Lexus-Inspired Facelift

The 2025 Corolla Cross sports a sharper, more premium look:

1. New Front Design: A geometric honeycomb grille (inspired by the Lexus RX) and redesigned LED headlamps with sequential turn signals (on XR and GR-S trims).
2. Fresh Colors: Oxide Bronze and Brass Gold join the palette, though GR-S models retain their bold contrast-black roofs with Glacier White, Chromium Silver, or Arizona Red.
3. Rear Tweaks: Subtly redesigned tail lights and a color-coded faux skidplate complete the refresh 10.

Interior Upgrades: Tech Meets Practicality

Toyota addresses previous critiques with a cabin focused on comfort and connectivity:

1. Infotainment:
2. Xi: 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
3. XS and up: 10-inch system with wireless smartphone integration.
4. XR/GR-S: 12.3-inch digital cluster + 360-degree camera.
5. Convenience: Electric parking brake replaces the footbrake, USB-C ports, and rear occupant detection.
6. Comfort: Reclining rear seats, dual-zone climate control (XS+), and hands-free power tailgate (XR/GR-S).

Performance: Unchanged but Efficient

The powertrain remains identical to the pre-facelift model:

1. Engine Options:
2. 1.8L Petrol: 103 kW/173 Nm.
3. 1.8L Hybrid: 90 kW system output (petrol + electric).
4. Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid models deliver ~4.3 L/100 km in mixed conditions, ideal for Gauteng’s stop-start traffic.
5. Driving Dynamics: The CVT transmission prioritizes smoothness over sportiness, with some lag during overtaking. However, the suspension excels in urban comfort, making it a reliable daily driver.

Pricing & Warranty

The 2025 Corolla Cross lineup starts at R414,800 for the base Xi, with hybrid variants commanding a premium:

Verdict: A Sensible Choice in a Competitive Market

While the Corolla Cross lacks the flashy tech of Chinese rivals, its updates strike a balance between refinement and reliability. The expanded infotainment, hybrid efficiency, and Toyota’s unmatched dealer network (220 outlets nationwide) make it a pragmatic pick for South African families. For buyers seeking fuss-free ownership and proven resale value, the 2025 Corolla Cross remains a top contender.