Toyota is preparing a two-pronged wave of updates for the iconic Corolla nameplate, with the 2024 GR Corolla and the 2024 Corolla Cross debuting new updates for the new model year as the pair attempt to inject new vigor into Corolla sales.
Corolla Cross Embraces The Nightshade Package, Premium Package Coming To GR Corolla
Toyota’s Nightshade lineup of models has already proven to be a sales success with buyers, and the company is extending the sinister charms to the Corolla Cross, which will be the latest model to feature a Nightshade Edition for 2024. Like other Nightshade models, black is the prominent theme, with the Cross getting darkened accents and 18-inch gloss black wheels. This edition is only available on the SE hybrid model, but buyers can choose from three colors: Jet Black, Barcelona Red, or Celestie Gray.
The 2024 GR Corolla, on the other hand, is adding some premium appointments to its fire-breathing hot hatch with the addition of an all-new Premium Grade trim that will enter the lineup in 2024. GR models equipped with this particular treatment will get 18-inch cast alloy wheels and a suede line interior, with buyers benefitting from heated seats and a separate heated steering wheel. An eight-speaker JBL premium audio system is also included, and front and rear parking sensors are also bundled in too. Meanwhile, changes to performance hardware are minimal, but the Premium Grade adds standard front and rear Torsen limited slip differentials and brake cooling ducts.
Value Quotient
Pricing for both of these new models also reflects the strong value for the dollar equation that Toyota is trying to preserve on both of these models. The GR Corolla Premium Grade starts at $39,920, with the trim being in between the $36,100 Core model and the range-topping $44,740 Circuit Edition. A one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is included and buyers can choose from three colors: Supersonic Red, Heavy Metal and Ice Cap.
As for the Corolla Cross Nightshade, Toyota chose to keep pricing for that model close to the vest. However, we suspect that the Nightshade treatment will be a small premium over the standard $29,290 one has to pay for a 2023 SE Hybrid, and pricing here could potentially cross over the $30,000 barrier. An ominous omission from the update pool is the sedan version, with Toyota not ready to reveal what it has planned for that variant of the Corolla just yet.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.