A lot of people bought the Corolla Cross. A colleague and friend drive the Cross Hybrid. However, I noticed a lack of interest on the Corolla Cross GR Sport. Does anyone here own the Cross GR Sport? If not, has anyone test driven the GR Sport and how does it compare to the hybrid or normal version of the Corolla Cross?

Apart from cosmetics (personally the exterior of the GR Cross especially the front grille looks much better than the normal Cross versions), it appears that the suspension and electric power steering have been tuned differently from the normal versions of the Corolla Cross. The EPS is a "Sport ECU", not sure what is that, while the suspension is sports-tuned with a "performance bracing" added. Again, not sure what differences do all these parts bring to the Corolla Cross GR Sport when compared to the normal Corolla Cross versions. There is a lack of review on the Corolla Cross GR Sport and on Youtube, there is only 1 or 2 test drive reviews. YS Khong did a short test drive review of the Corolla Cross GR Sport but it's not up to Genting this time but on normal roads at normal driving speeds. The suspension was said to be slightly stiffer than the one in the Corolla Cross non GR Sport which gives slightly better handling around corners with less bounciness.

Currently there's promotion for all Corolla Cross versions but not this Corolla Cross GR Sport.

Any insight would be appreciated.

Didn't test the Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport version in Malaysia, but have tried many of the different Sport/GR versions of Toyota in Taiwan.

It's really a different breed of car with the special tuning & suspension setup.
If I'm buying my next Toyota, I would always go for the GR version if possible. You get Toyota's legendary reliability & sports feel.

Thanks for the post. That's good to know.

FWIW my priorities these days are not so much about handling and performance but reliability and problem-free (that's why Toyota is at the top of the list for me now). However, it's good to kill 2 birds with one stone.

I will need to recheck on the Corolla Cross GR Sport when I'm in the Toyota showroom next round. I just visited the Toyota showroom about 3 or 4 weeks ago and I didn't actually pay attention to the Corolla Cross since my main interest is the Corolla where the vehicle is already sold out throughout Malaysia at this point of time, awaiting new Corolla model to launch likely next month. I did briefly look at the normal version of the Corolla Cross when I was at the showroom but since it's not my interest, I didn't pay much attention to it.

The current price of the Corolla Cross GR Sport is RM142k, and if there's promotion just like the other versions of the Corolla Cross, I'd seriously look into it although my main choice is still the Corolla. Will see how the upcoming new model of the Corolla stack up once it's launched.

https://www.toyota.com.tw/ - Sharing for your interest, since I'm no longer buying any new cars in Malaysia, but I'm a big fan of Toyota Taiwan, and planning my next Toyota purchase in the next 2 years.
The GR specs there are basically the highest specs + hybrid + suits me because I prefer a sportier drive. So I find it really value for money.

That being said, if I were buying a car in Malaysia, I'd rather consider a Proton to get more value for money, however no brand comes close to Toyota's quality levels & after sales service levels.

Thanks. Just had a look at the Toyota Taiwan website and noticed they have Corolla GR Sports there unlike here where we only have normal Corolla. Our Corolla here is not even a hybrid, and they have 2 additional versions of the Corolla (hybrid and GR Sports). Lucky for Taiwanese, or unlucky for Malaysians! I was informed that the upcoming new model of the Corolla will be just a facelift with the same old engine, not even a hybrid. We are surely behind other countries when it comes to getting new models with updated technology and features.

For the Corolla Cross, at least Malaysia still have the GR Sports version. It's just that it's only in petrol engine rather than hybrid engine as Taiwan is getting. I've briefly investigated on the hybrid vs NA engine in the Toyota Corolla Cross, and from the looks of it, the difference is not exactly significant especially in performance and power. The hybrid version is just slightly better when it comes to smoother acceleration at low to moderate speeds in comparison to the non-hybrid. Also, slightly better fuel consumption with hybrid perhaps. Apart from that I presume the Corolla Cross hybrid and non-hybrid drive fairly similar.

Proton used to be good value about 10 years ago. Now I don't think it's good value anymore as most of their vehicles are close to RM100k and exceeding that with the Geely rebadge vehicles. I owned the Proton Preve Turbo before and the highest spec only costs RM69k if my memory doesn't fail me. It's value for money but in terms of quality it's still not quite up to the mark with the older Protons. Perhaps newer Protons such as X50 or X70 have improved but then the price is much higher.

Well, can't do much about Malaysia because the currency depreciated so much. Back in 2010, TWD10 = MYR1. Now in 2023, TWD10 = MYR1.50. Imagine if you just converted all your savings to a foreign currency instead of putting in FD. You would make way better returns on your money. So you'll end-up with lower spec models in Malaysia vs. Global Trends, because the manufacturers still want to maintain their profit margins.

The thing about hybrids these days is it's very similar priced vs. normal ICE engines. So you get the additional fuel savings for your wallet without forking out extra at the time of purchasing your car.
A good in-between car until EV cars become a norm everywhere and the prices start trending downwards.

The reason why things costs so much in Malaysia these days is simple bro. Inflation, inflation, inflation.
However, it's also not a fair comparison between Proton Preve Turbo (C-segment sedan) vs. X50 or X70 (SUVs).
Wait for the Preve/Persona/Perdana replacements from Geely, then you will have a fairer comparison in terms of pricing.

The only real performance rated GR in Malaysia market is either the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR Supra & GR 86.

The rest are mostly exterior bodykit, interior upgrade & tuned suspension for sportier feel (Hilux, Cross, Vios), while special for the GR Vios which they tune the CVT gear from 7 to 10 virtual gears (which the engine output still same as others similar model across)

If you ask me is it worth to buy the GR Corolla Cross, i would say no. If you want a better handling/sportier ride in similar category & price range is better you get Subaru Xv or Mazda CX-30.

This post has been edited by littlefire: Jun 28 2023, 02:21 PM

Noted on all your points.

Regarding the unfair comparison between Proton Preve Turbo and X50/X70, it's just a general remark. During the older days, apart from Proton Perdana which is not meant to be sold to the public, the Proton Preve Turbo is the costliest vehicle. It's only when Proton went into joint-venture with Geely they have all these rebadge SUVs coming in, priced higher. We'll wait for the Preve Turbo's replacement, and as you have aptly mentioned, due to inflation everything is expensive these days so I don't expect the replacement to be at the Preve's price range.

The Preve Turbo's quality and reliability are not good. Although the relatively low price can be considered as value for money, the quality of the vehicle drags it down. Apart from the dismal performance of the CVT gearbox, it malfunctioned once and needed to be replaced within warranty period. Also, rattling sound in the interior.

Let's wait and see the upcoming Geely-Proton sedan replacement models. Those should be good, since it's tried, tested & proven in Chinese market.
I have faith in Geely as their shareholder. Now it a good time to accumulate their stocks to make good money in the future.

Yes, I am aware of the true or genuine GR performance vehicles. However, all these vehicles cost RM200k to 300k or higher which are in a different league from the GR spec of say Vios or Corolla Cross. It may be a gimmick or marketing to put the GR badge to the Vios or Corolla Cross, but at least there are some minor improvements not only in terms of aesthetics with GR logo or red-stitching on leather seats etc. but some mechanical differences in the suspension, EPS and additional bracing in the Corolla Cross GR Sport.

I am aware the Subaru XV or Mazda CX30 may (or will) have better handling and performance. However, if reliability and problem-free vehicle is a factor I believe the Toyota is the best choice. Also, I think the CX-30 is priced a bit higher than the rest, RM10k or 20k more. If there is promotion for the Corolla Cross GR Sport, it would be more attractive alternative to consider.

If one is just looking for handling and performance, I agree Subaru XV or Mazda CX-30 would be a better choice. However, everyone has their own priorities so for people looking at other things, the Corolla Cross GR Sport may tick more of the boxes. FWIW I find the normal plain version of the Corolla Cross to be unappealing mainly due to the exterior looks especially the front grille. However, the Corolla Cross GR Sport looks better to me hence the interest.

if you are in it for the performance/handling, these are the only GR's worth mentioning, the rest kinda pointless. not really here or there

Well, it's not exactly pointless. The "true" GR vehicles are outright performance orientated vehicles priced very high. For this reason not many people will buy them as they are meant for enthusiast with deep pockets. For everyday driving to work and to wet market or pasar malam etc. these vehicles are not suitable.

The Corolla Cross GR Sport offers the best in comfort and slightly better handling for everyday usage. All at an affordable or more reachable price tag. For me, it's not so much about the slightly improved handling but more to the looks in comparison to the normal version of the Corolla Cross. To me, the normal version of the Corolla Cross does not look good.

If talk about reliability ratings in crossover category, Subaru XV Crosstrek is one of the best beating even to Toyota own similar offering.
FYI, Subaru is also within the same Toyota family. Just google about Subaru Xv Crosstrek vs Toyota Corolla Cross article & youtube video around the net and decide. Mazda CX-30 reliability status due to new model usually are less in comparison, so would be better to wait for facelift.

This post has been edited by littlefire: Jun 28 2023, 03:31 PM

I'd say Cross GR at least not as pointless as Bezza with bodykit, adding a spoiler to a sampan won't do shit

Correction to my own post above. Upon checking, I noticed the true "GR" vehicles are not priced between RM200k and 300k but actually RM300k to 655k. A these prices I doubt many people would buy them.

Also, performance orientated vehicles are mostly not comfortable to drive everyday due to stiff suspension that will leave you with backache. It's mostly for enthusiasts, racing on the race tracks. These days how often will you drive enthusiastically on the roads with all the jam everywhere. Not related to the topic but I recently read a news about the Hong Kong actor Simon Yam Tat Wah selling away all his sports cars as he realised they are not practical for everyday usage. Just used once in a blue moon only. He is now looking for a practical SUV for everyday driving.

Good to know. Subaru XV Crosstrek is also a good looking vehicle although interior-wise it may be lacking. It's another good alternative to Toyota Cross GR Sports or plan Cross model. It all depends on personal preferences as not everyone looks for performance and sporty drive. Although reliability is the top factor for me, the vehicle will need to look good on the exterior and interior where the perception varies with individuals. If the vehicle doesn't look good, I wouldn't consider it even though the specs on paper may look impressive.

Test drove both GR and Hybrid. In the end opted for Hybrid. Car is for my mom anyway. Styling wise, GR is nicer, particularly the white with black roof (although I feel they should have made the wheels an inch larger) but for majority of people on our lousy roads, the Hybrid is a better buy for it’s softer drive. GR ride quality is more jittery over rough roads. Honestly, my mind was already set on the Hybrid model (was mainly trying to decide between HR-V Hybrid or Cross Hybrid) when I visited the showroom so maybe my judgement is unfair. I just test drove it since the the SA offered, because we were waiting for the Hybrid test car to return from another potential customer’s test drive session. Frankly, I don’t really consider it a true GR model. It’s just a 1.8 Cross with a couple of bits added and slightly different mapping. Maybe rolls less during harder cornering, but it’s negligible at best. More noticeable is the GR’s front compressing less under harder braking compared to the Hybrid, but that is also what makes it feel firmer and less comfy over bumps and holes. The CVT in the GR is still too lazy even in Sport mode, and for sedate driving in Eco/Normal mode it’s also not as smooth as the e-CVT on the Cross Hybrid. The HR-V Turbo (also CVT) actually felt sportier than the Cross GR to me.

This post has been edited by dev/numb: Jun 28 2023, 05:59 PM

Thanks for the post. You are the first person to compare the Corolla Cross hybrid to the GR Sport so your impressions are useful. I have somehow expected the hybrid version to have the upper hand when it comes to drivability and indeed your test drive experience has proven that to be the case. Good point on the hybrid being more comfortable on rough roads as that is also somewhat expected as sports-tuned suspension which are inherently stiffer will surely be less comfortable on rough or bad roads. Will need to test drive myself to evaluate the level of acceptance of the drivability of the GR sport as everyone's benchmark is different.

As I have mentioned earlier, everyone's priorities in the selection of vehicle is different. Apart from reliability, looks come in second and the GR Sport looks better than the plain Corolla Cross to me. Drivability, power and performance although important are now at the bottom of the hierarchy for me and are of least importance. Nevertheless, the vehicle will still need to meet a certain standard and not drive like say a Perodua Alza for instance. Just an example as I have not driven the Alza with the assumption that it drives noticeably worse.

All the differences which you described such as negligible body roll during cornering and lesser compression of the front suspension with hard braking etc. are useful information and appreciated. Also less comfortable ride of the GR Sport when going over speed bumps and potholes are well noted.

All Honda vehicles are out of consideration due to low quality assembly (rattling noises in the interior) and also lower reliability, not withstanding the sticky steering issue which was revealed lately whereby the steering wheel will lockup when the steering rack or related electronics fail. When you mention the Honda HRV drives sportier than the Corolla Cross GR Sport, I presume it's on better acceleration power of the HRV. What about the handling ie. steering sharpness and suspension setup. From my experience with older generation City, CRV and Accord, they all have light and loose steering feel and poor road feedback, and a soft suspension.

This post has been edited by SportyHandling: Jun 28 2023, 07:36 PM

Yes, we share the same taste. Similarly the white looks the best to me when compared to the other two, red and blue. However, my impression was based on looking at photos on the computer screen and not the actual vehicle in real life.

I numbered and bolded the bits I will be replying to. Apologies, as I’m currently touch-typing on the iPad and it’s a bit troublesome to manually cut-paste and add quote tags for individual bits.

1. I apologize for not being clear earlier. I meant that the difference in degree of body roll between the GR and Hybrid is negligible. You can still notice the left-right tilt on both models, just that the GR has less of it and feels slightly tighter. Granted, it was still just a short test drive. The SA did let me push it a bit, but time and roads were limited.

2. Same for me. Honda is actually my favourite Japanese automaker (because of their 2/4-wheel motorsport pedigree) but their CKD quality has gone downhill over the years. Aside from the issues you stated, what put me off the HR-V was the poor cabin insulation, particularly from road noise. Insulation materials used seem like they’re supposed to be in a RM40k car, not a RM140k car. I also sit in a colleague’s HR-V Turbo when we head out for lunch some days, and my impressions haven’t changed. Even the roof lining during rainy days sounds cheapskate.

3. HR-V Turbo has better acceleration for starters. CVT also feels like it shifts faster, although both Cross and HR-V gearboxes can probably get confused if you drive expecting them to develop a “rev-matching memory” to your style. That simply won’t ever happen for this segment of cars. Steering input/immediacy is around the same for the HR-V Turbo and Cross GR (a bit quicker than Cross Hybrid) but both are numb as heck. GR steering has a bit more feel than the HR-V, but it’s more like torque kickback rather than actual road surface feel. But if it’s a very bad surface, the Cross will somewhat try to let you know that you’re putting undesired stress on the steering rack (which I find useful, given our craptastic roads) whereas the HR-Vs steering will remain numb until the day you realize the rack is gone. Suspension-wise, honestly hard to A/B as the test roads around Honda and Toyota SCs were different. I would say the GR shaves it slightly. Neither of them “float” over undulations. Chassis-wise, the Cross (all models) feels like it has less flex than the HR-V, but that might just be down to the poor noise insulation of the Honda clouding my judgement. Can’t say for certain. Both are still FWD SUVs at the end of the day, and even in that segment I doubt either will be as driver-focused as something like a Mazda (my assumption only, haven’t tried any current Mazda, because Bermaz).

Please note that I’m what /k would call an “oldfag” and when test driving cars these days, in this country, the feedback I tend to look for is more reliability-centered (how much can the car tell me about its overall health) rather than handling/performance-centered (I still look at fundamental characteristics, just probably not at a nuanced level as an enthusiast). I tend to treat cars as appliances (I drive a Harrier, Cross Hybrid is for my mother - basically zero character in my garage) nowadays, so best to take my input with a grain of salt.

This post has been edited by dev/numb: Jun 28 2023, 09:25 PM