Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has introduced the updated Corolla Cross GR Sport (GR-S) alongside the debut of the all-new RAV4 HEV and the Urban Cruiser BEV. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S features subtle yet distinctive design updates, as seen on both its exterior and interior.
As a review, the updated Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S made its ASEAN debut back in February 2026. Similar to the unit that debuted in Thailand and Malaysia, the new Corolla Cross GR-S comes with a new grille design that looks simpler yet bolder. Toyota dropped the glossy black trim on the grille surrounds of the outgoing Corolla Cross GR-S model.
The front grille now comes with a new honeycomb pattern that’s integrated with a GR Sport emblem. Meanwhile, the lower bumper of the new Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S now gets a simpler gunmetal trim as compared to the large faux skid plate design seen on the old model.
The subtle design updates continue to be seen at the sides as the new version has a more refined look due to the simpler black cladding. The rear, on the other hand, comes with a revamped bumper that now has a simpler gunmetal trim. The Corolla Cross logo or lettering on the tailgate is now in black as compared to the old model, which comes in chrome.
Inside, the interior layout remains the same as the outgoing model. It still comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New to the Corolla Cross GR-S is the accent brought about by the red stitching that’s seen on the seats and dashboard. It also comes with red seatbelts, while the front headrests come with an embroidered GR logo.
Under the hood, the updated 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S still comes with the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine, which delivers 120 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to an e-CVT, transferring power to the front wheels.
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S is priced at P1,947,000 for the Platinum White Pearl with Attitude Black Mica exterior color, while the sticker price is at P1,952,000 for the Emotional Red with Attitude Black Mica exterior paint.
Autocar’s Take
Toyota Motor Philippines wants to carry its momentum from being the best-selling car brand in the Philippines anew. From the looks of it, TMP doesn’t want to slow down as it has already launched several all-new models, including the RAV4 Hybrid and the Urban Cruiser. Despite those new models, including the updated Corolla Cross GR-S, Toyota is still scheduled to launch new vehicles this year.
As such, Toyota further wants to establish its foothold in the Philippine market, which is expected since the local automotive industry is getting more competitive with the arrival of new emerging brands, such as BYD Cars. Last year, BYD PH aggressively expanded its presence in the local automotive market. It has recorded 26,122 units in retail sales in 2025, making it the fastest-growing automotive brand in the country, securing the third-best-selling car brand in the Philippines last year.
