Updated 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport Bows – RM148,800

UMWT have released an updated 2026MY version of the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport, and it brings a slew of minor aesthetic tweaks inside and out.

Earlier today, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) officially revealed an updated 2026 model year version of its staple C-SUV offering – the Corolla Cross. Specifically, the firm has refreshed said model’s GR Sport performance range-topper.

There are a slew of subtle visual changes and additions, the most obvious of which is its new grille – there’s a new frameless honeycombe look replacing the previous framed ‘wings’ seen in the previous 2025MY update launched during KLIMS 2024.

The previous 2025MY version (left) and latest 2026MY version (right) of the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport. Note the distinct new grille design.

The new grille brings a 'frameless' look - its borders are now body coloured - with a new honeycombe insert.

The arguably neater new grille integrates better with the headlamps, and it boasts a ‘floating’ effect. What’s also new here is the GR Sport emblem. Previously absent even in the pre-facelift version - this is now adorned on the grille’s bottom right corner.

Updated here too is the front bumper, specifically its ‘skid plate’, which now rocks a new three-bar design replacing the previous version’s ‘vented’ look. The same applies with the rear bumper’s lower insert which now rocks a simpler design.

At the rear, the 'Corolla Cross' tailgate script badge is now finished in gloss black instead of chrome. The crossover's rear bumper also gains a neater lower skid plate design.

Whilst on the exterior still, the ‘Corolla Cross’ tailgate emblem is now finished in gloss black instead of chrome. Next, UMWT will now offer this GR Sport range-topper with the contrasting black roof scheme primed as standard – it was previously an option. 

Moving on board, the racy black upholstery with red stitching motif is now extended beyond the seats into the dash and door inserts. There’s an updated seat design with a central ‘spine’, and full-colour GR emblem embroidery in the headrests.

On board, changes are equally subtle, but there are tasty tweaks like the expanded black upholstery with red contrast stitching motif.

What’s subtly increased here too is the GR Sport logo count beyond the headrests mentioned. Said emblems are now present in the steering wheel bottom spoke and key fob. Otherwise, there are no other major visual changes to note.

Mechanically, there are no changes to note here either. As before, this electrified hybrid variant of the Corolla Cross continues to harness a 1.8-litre 4-cyl Atkinson Cycle petrol mill paired with a compact hybrid e-motor and battery setup.

Apart from the changes detailed, the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport continues largely unchanged, even in price - it still commands RM148,800 sans insurance.

The former brings 98 PS and 142 Nm whilst the latter is rated at 72 PS and 163 Nm instead, with Toyota touting a peak combined output of 122 PS. Both are tied to an E-CVT automatic box to drive the front wheels as before too.

As for price, this also continues unchanged as before at RM148,800 excluding insurance. Said price continues to include a 5-year, unlimited mileage base vehicle warranty and separate 8-year, unlimited mileage hybrid battery and components coverage.