2026 Toyota Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport facelift in Malaysia, sharper looks, same price

KUALA LUMPUR: UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has rolled out an updated 2026 Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport for Malaysia, a light refresh that keeps the same hybrid-driven brief but tightens up the look, adds a few GR-flavoured details, and aims to make the driving feel a touch more confident.

UMWT says the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport has been well received since it first arrived here, and it is not hard to see why the formula works for a lot of Malaysians, it is a hybrid SUV with everyday practicality, easy ownership, and a sportier visual package for people who want something a bit more “special” without going full performance car.

Also Read: Toyota Vios HEV GR Sport in Malaysia, hybrid Vios with sharper looks, sharper tune, RM109,900

The 2026 update is positioned as an enhancement rather than a major change. The focus is on exterior detailing, a more driver-focused cabin presentation, and a suspension tune intended to feel more composed on Malaysian roads, all while maintaining the efficiency and low-hassle ownership hybrid buyers expect.

Available now, pricing unchanged, warranty stays strong

UMWT says the enhanced Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport is available nationwide at all authorised Toyota showrooms, and importantly, there is no change in pricing.

Ownership coverage remains a big part of the pitch, with a 5-year unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty. The Hybrid Electric system warranty covers the key hybrid components, including the hybrid battery, inverter, and power management control unit, and it is extendable for longer-term peace of mind. Buyers can also opt for an additional two-year extended warranty if they want extra coverage beyond the standard period.

What’s new for 2026

The refresh is mostly about sharpening the GR Sport identity and lifting the cabin ambience. Here are the main changes:

1) Sport-tuned suspension for a more confident drive
The Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport continues with its sport-tuned suspension, calibrated to improve handling stability and driving confidence across city roads and highways.

It is meant to feel a bit more composed and engaging, without turning the Corolla Cross into something uncomfortable for family duty.

2) More assertive GR-inspired exterior detailing
The 2026 model gets a set of styling updates that lean into the GR family look:

• Redesigned front grille and fog lamp surrounds to better match the GR identity

• Front and rear skid plates to visually strengthen the stance

• Refined side mouldings to sharpen the profile

• Updated rear emblem colour treatment for added contrast

All variants now come with an exclusive black roof package, which is the sort of detail that will appeal to buyers who like the two-tone look and want the car to stand out more in traffic and in carparks.

Colour options mentioned include Platinum White Pearl, Dark Turquoise, and Red Mica Metallic.

3) Cabin gets a stronger GR theme, without losing the daily comfort angle
Inside, the updated Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport sticks with a monotone black interior, then adds red highlights and GR-specific touches to keep it from feeling too plain.

List of cabin updates includes:

• Bold red highlights and GR red stitching across the door trims, steering wheel, instrument panel, and shift lever boot

• Exclusive red seatbelts for a more obvious GR Sport cue

• Dark silver trim elements for a sportier contrast

• Seats with premium GR-embroidered headrests

• GR branding on the steering wheel and key fob

It is the familiar GR Sport approach, make the cabin feel more intentional and more “driver-focused”, but still suitable for daily commuting and family use.

UMWT says the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport within Toyota’s wider “Multipathway” strategy, basically the view that Malaysia will not shift to one single technology overnight, and different buyers have different needs. In that context, hybrids continue to be positioned as the practical middle ground, especially for people who want better fuel efficiency and a lower-emissions option without changing their routines.

In plain terms, the Corolla Cross HEV GR Sport remains a hybrid SUV aimed at buyers who want something efficient and easy to live with, but do not mind paying a bit more for stronger design character and a slightly sportier vibe.

Also Read: Toyota Vios HEV in Malaysia,from RM103,900