The Toyota Corolla Cross is a steady, solid small crossover, if a little on the conservative side in terms of design. Still, we’d gladly recommend it to anyone in the market looking for a good set of wheels. It’s not what anyone would call aggressive, though.
Locally, we have the G and V variants, along with the GR Sport. Curiously, the GR Sport still wears the old look, whereas the entry and mid-spec models get a new face. But over in Europe, things are a little different.
Over there, the GR Sport trim gets a much meaner face that we hope lands here soon. At the same time, it has specs that we’re genuinely jealous of. More on that later.
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For the European region, this model gets a totally different bumper. It’s inspired by the recently updated GR Corolla and GR Yaris with larger corner air intakes and a more prominent center opening. Also present is a deeper apron and slimmer grille.
The Euro-spec Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport also gets a different set of tail lights, as well as matte grey 19-inch wheels. Gloss black highlights are scattered throughout the exterior, and a two-tone paint scheme completes the look. This model also gets an exclusive color called Storm Grey.
Inside, the seats upholstered in BRIN?NAUB. It’s a suede-like synthetic leather, and features GR logos and red stitching throughout the cabin. It then gets deeper bucket seats for a sportier feel. Passengers will also appreciate the additional sound deadening added for this model update.
But aside from the looks, we’re jealous of the powertrain options for the European model. There’s the usual 1.8-liter hybrid that makes 138hp and is exactly the same as the one sold here. However, there’s also a 2.0-liter dual-motor arrangement available. The result is a total system output of 196hp and gets all-wheel drive as standard.
Other highlights? It actually gets suspension upgrades. There are firmer dampers of the GR Sport, along with performance oriented springs. The unique suspension arrangement means ride height has been lowered by 10mm. Sport mode in GR Sport variants have been enhanced, and model fitted with all-wheel drive get a snow mode...not that it’s relevant for the Philippines.
More photos of the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport (EU-spec):
