WeeklySA_AdminSAFE CHOICE: Toyota small SUV continues to score big on sales and outsmarting the competition
By Ali Mphaki
South Africa can be likened to a Toyota movie. Go to any taxi rank, and all you’ll see are Toyota Quantums lining up to ferry you to whatever your destination.
Try calling for an e-hailing service, and most likely, a Toyota Corolla sedan will be at your doorstep within a minimum of delay.
Move over to the bakkie segment of the market, and there again, you’ll find the Toyota Hilux ruling the roost as the best seller.
Change gears to SUVs, and once more, brand Toyota has the segment by the scruff of the neck – you guessed right if you said Corolla Cross.
It would seem that the plethora of highly-specced but affordable Chinese brands seem to hit a roadblock when it comes to converting Toyota’s tried and tested apostles to their folk.
Fair to say Toyota enthusiasts are not easily swayed by the latest bling bling, and it would take more than electro gimmicks for them to forsake the Japanese brand.
To further prove this phenomenon beyond any reasonable doubt, look no further than the latest car sales where brand Toyota continues to chow the opposition with impunity.
The December month also saw the passenger segment grow by over 20 percent year-on-year with sales, with the Corolla Cross recording an impressive 2 766 units snapped from showrooms across the country.
As of it were not enough, Cotlla Cross would also register the highest number of used SUVs sold during December 2025, according to AutoTrader mid-year report.
A total of 5 935 used Corolla Cross units were sold during the year, making it SA’s most favorable SUV.
With such incredible credentials, it’s no wonder car buyers continue to vote for the Corolla Cross with their wallets, a vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride with good handling.
With its elevated and SUV style, she was recently facelifted with a fresh front fascia and headlights with revised rear bar, new wheel designs and badging outside.
Inside, a revised centre console and seat trim materials make for a modern and some improvement to an otherwise bland interior.
Small boot space, a cabin that needs more storage options, are some of the niggling issues which affect what is otherwise a practical vehicle with less drama and surprise.
Noticeable, however, is its wind noise on highways and an engine that seems to toyi-toyi when pushed hard.
Available in various trims like Xi, XS, XR, and sporty GR-S, with hybrid versions manufactured locally.
Engine options feature a 1.8L engine, paired with a CVT transmission , with hybrid models delivering a combined 90 kW output. Safety comes with multiple airbags. ISOFIX and available safety systems.
It may be an elevated and SUV-styled version of the regular Toyota Corolla, it offers the same if not more efficiency as expected from a Toyota. A safe choice
