2023 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport - Putting "Sport" back into SUV, the right way
Shaun · Aug 4, 2023 11:35 AM
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Unlike what some so-called enthusiasts say, SUVs are great. They bring space, practicality, and most importantly, peace of mind when the going gets tough. The part that irks this writer to an extent is when car manufacturers attempt to put “Sport” back into “SUV.”
This is the whole point of an SUV, to give peace of mind when the tarmac ends.
The end result is oftentimes too much of a compromise – too stiff and yet not as dynamically capable as lower-riding sedans.
Hence, yours truly is of the opinion that an SUV should focus on what it’s good at, rather than attempting to disguise its shortcomings. Well, was of the opinion, until the Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport came along.
First up, the suspension. Like the first GR Sport product in Malaysia, which was the previous-generation Vios, the suspension tuning is absolute perfection.
Toyota hasn’t gone to extremes in the name of sportiness, they’ve instead added control and poise without compromising at all on comfort.
In fact, put passengers who have never been in a standard Corolla Cross and they’d be none the wiser that it has a set of stiffer springs and struts, along with a Performance Bar. The fluid ride quality is still very much intact.
The difference is that over large and continuous undulations at higher speeds, the Corolla Cross GR Sport settles quickly, giving the driver the confidence to tackle any set of sweeping bends.
The “Sport ECU” for the electric power steering has also worked wonders to give a nicely-weighted steering and a better sense of connection to the front axle, which again, adds confidence to the driver.
The enhancement isn’t so much about sportiness in the classic sense of being sharp and nimble, but to provide stability and assurance to the driver. To that end, they’ve nailed it.
The GR Sport package also adds some spice to the exterior as well as interior. It flaunts a black roof, outer side mirrors, and rear spoiler. The three available colours – Platinum White Pearl, Nebula Blue Metallic, Red Mica Metallic – give a striking contrast for the 2-tone exterior.
The 18-inch alloy wheels are lightweight yet durable, which further aids stability and ride comfort. The honeycomb-shaped mesh grille optimizes airflow with powder coating, while the GR Sport emblems placed on the side fender and rear give a sense of exclusivity.
Elevating the aesthetics at the rear are clear lenses for the taillamps and rear bumper lower garnish with air diffuser.
Inside, there are GR logos on the carpet, headrests, and push start button to add a greater sense of occasion. Also adding a touch of specialness is the red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, gear shift boot cover, and carpets.
Elsewhere, it’s a standard affair with a healthy list of equipment with eight-way powered driver's seat and reclining rear seats for added comfort. The 9.0-inch touchscreen head unit supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
There’s also a wireless charger and the SUV is equipped with a hands-free opening tailgate featuring a kick sensor for convenient access.
Safety is a priority with no less than 7 airbags, plus the full suite of ADAS that is the Toyota Safety Sense, which bundles features like Pre-collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert & Lane Tracing Assist (LDA) & (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).
Having tested the Corolla Cross GR Sport, it has reminded this writer again how far it punches above its weight.
At RM 142,000, it’s nearly half the price of a Toyota Harrier (RM 274,000) but possesses 80 percent of the road manners and refinement levels, and the GR Sport enhancements have brought the Corolla Cross even closer.
The GR Sport treatment hasn’t compromised the Corolla Cross’ strengths which are comfort, refinement, and bulletproof reliability. It only brings out what was already there, its talented road manners. It’s like adding an extra dash of sambal to your nasi lemak, just for the extra spice.
Don't just take our word for it, head over to your nearest Toyota dealership and request for a test drive in the Corolla Cross GR Sport. If you're one to appreciate a talented chassis, this is an SUV you'll happily wheel around with your family.
The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
