Following its debut in Europe earlier this month, the facelifted Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport has now been launched in Japan. Priced at 3.895 million yen (about RM115k), the sporty variant takes its place as the most expensive variant of the refreshed Corolla Cross range that starts at 2.76 million yen in Japan (RM81k).
Offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, the GR Sport is powered by a M20A-FXS 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four petrol engine that on its own serves up 152 PS (150 hp or 112 kW) and 188 Nm of torque.
The mill, which is paired with an E-CVT that has 10 virtual speeds, is augmented by a 1VM electric motor rated at 95 PS (94 hp or 70 kW) and 185 Nm, while a second 1WM electric motor at the rear with 41 PS (40 hp or 30 kW) and 84 Nm completes the E-Four electric all-wheel drive system.
Suspension upgrades for the GR Sport variant include stiffer bushings for the front lower arms, while the dampers have a built-in rebound spring. New coil springs also lower the ride height by 10 mm and rigidity gets a boost thanks to a reinforced rear bumper. Drivers also have an additional Sport drive mode to select, which is exclusive to the range-topper.
In terms of styling, the GR Sport mirrors the version introduced in Europe and is fitted with what the company calls an “evolved functional Matrix grille.” This features various openings and inlets meant to optimise airflow and improve stability.
Rolling on 19-inch wheels, the GR Sport also gets various black accents and trims along with red-painted brake calipers that have the GR logo at the front. Exclusive two-tone colour schemes of a black roof matched with Emotional Red II, Platinum White Pearl Mica or Ash are offered.
On the inside, you’ll find sport seats with the GR logo on the integrated headrests, along with suede-like upholstery and synthetic leader sides. A GR-branded three-spoke steering wheel, paddle shifters, aluminium pedals and smoked silver metallic trim are also part of the cabin.
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Recommended for Express Tofu Transportation tackling hilly road in shortest time without spilling a glass of water
50kg crates of tofu order on the way
The front bumper looks way better than the corolla cross facelift. (non-GR version)
New Interior center control looks really good. Very refreshed look.
the problem with this car is it’s ugly back, stop changing the front.
It doesn’t make any sense to call it gr sports with no manual transmission