Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has big plans for Mzansi over the coming 12 months, with the local arm of the Japanese automaker revealing the Toyota models we can expect to see on SA roads in 2025 at the eighth instalment of the firm’s State of the Motoring Industry (SOMI) event.
Updated Toyota Corolla Cross — ETA: Now
Already available on SA shores, the updated Corolla Cross’ local launch coincided with the 2025 SOMI event. Sporting a fresh face and interior upgrades, including for tech, the revised version of TSAM’s best-selling crossover/SUV is sure to build on the success of the outgoing model.
The Corolla Cross is again available with the choice of two engine options: a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder petrol and hybrid powertrain comprising a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-pot and electric motor. The petrol-only unit churns out 103 kW and 172 N.m of torque, with the petrol-electric setup produces 90 kW and 142 N.m. Toyota claims average fuel consumption figures of 6.8 L/100 km and 4.3 L/100 km for the former and latter, respectively. Both units send drive to the front wheels via a CVT.
Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport — ETA: March 2025
The Fortuner GR-Sport (GR-S), like its Hilux GR-S III bakkie sibling, employs an uprated (to 165 kW/550 N.m) version of Toyota’s proven 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged oil-burner. A GR-S-tuned suspension set-up, replete with monotube shocks, are included in the package.
The Fortuner GR-S further features GR-specific exterior and interior design elements, including a redesigned lower bumper, 18-inch alloy wheels, sports seats trimmed in Alcantara, and aluminium pedals.
Updated Toyota GR Yaris — ETA: March 2025
SOMI 2025’s reveals weren’t a crossover, SUV and bakkie (we’ll get to the latter soon) affair, with TSAM confirming the updated GR Yaris will make local landfall in March 2025. The revised version of Toyota’s pocket rocket retains a 1.6-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol. However, the turbo-triple is now equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and boasts more power and torque — 210 kW and 400 N.m. The updated model further features some subtle exterior revisions, while revisions have been made to the cabin.
Toyota Hilux Legend 55 — ETA: July 2025
The fifth heritage-inspired Hilux, the Legend 55 pays homage to its namesake’s legacy in SA. Standout features include the fitment of a widebody kit and ‘Wide Tread’ suspension. The package further includes a ‘Legend 55’ styling kit and new sports bar. TSAM has announced that the Legend 55 will gain “some” performance enhancements. As such, a fair bet would be that it will employ the 165 kW/550 N.m version of the 2.8GD-6 powertrain.