Toyota keeps things rolling with the 2026 Corolla Cross a zippy little SUV that fits right into busy family life. This refreshed model mixes everyday ease with a touch of adventure all while holding onto that trusty Corolla vibe folks love. Whether you grab the gas version or the hybrid it promises smooth rides and smart savings on fuel. Dealers across the country are gearing up for its early 2026 rollout and early word says it could steal the show in the small SUV crowd. With prices starting under 25 grand its a smart pick for first time buyers or upgrade seekers looking for value without the fuss.
Fresh Face for the Road
The 2026 model gets a nice facelift up front with a bolder grille and reshaped bumper that gives it a more confident stance. Hybrid fans will spot the sleek hexagonal grille in body color a nod to its eco friendly side. New paint options pop like Cavalry Blue paired with a black roof on higher trims. Wheels step up too with fresh 18 inch alloys in gloss black or machined finishes that add some edge without extra cost. Overall the look stays practical but feels a bit more modern ready for city hops or weekend getaways.
Power That Packs a Punch
Under the hood choices stay simple and strong. The gas engine is a 2.0 liter four cylinder pumping out 169 horsepower and 150 pound feet of torque hooked to a continuous variable transmission. Front wheel drive comes standard but all wheel drive is there for rainy days or light trails. It sips fuel at 31 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on the highway. Step up to the hybrid and you get that same 2.0 liter teamed with three electric motors for a total of 196 horses. All wheel drive is built in using electric power out back no mechanical bits to worry about. Expect 46 city 39 highway and a solid 42 combined making it a champ for long commutes.
Roomy Ride with Smart Touches
Inside the cabin feels familiar yet improved with a reworked center console that flows better for gear shifts and phone charging. Space holds steady with room for five and 25 cubic feet of cargo behind the seats folding flat to 66 when needed. Rear passengers get their own air vents and on top trims heated seats keep things cozy. The infotainment jumps to a 10.5 inch touchscreen on XLE and hybrid XSE models with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard perks. A 12.3 inch digital gauge cluster adds a high tech feel without overwhelming the simple layout. Materials stay basic but durable perfect for real life spills and daily wear.
Safety Net You Can Count On
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 rolls out across the board with automatic emergency braking lane tracing and adaptive cruise control that reads traffic like a pro. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert join in on LE and higher trims watching your back in tight spots. The whole setup earns top crash test nods keeping families safe without extra drama. Ground clearance at 8.1 inches handles potholes and curbs with ease while the 1500 pound towing cap lets you hitch a small trailer for bikes or gear.
Wallet Friendly Entry Point
Pricing keeps it accessible with gas models kicking off at 24935 dollars for the L front wheel drive trim. All wheel drive adds about 1300 bucks across the board. Hybrids start higher at 29295 for the S but that extra pays off in fuel savings over time. Top out with the XLE gas at 29860 or hybrid XSE at 33330 loaded with sunroof and leather like seats. Add 1195 for destination fees and you are set. Compared to last year its just a 500 dollar bump but the upgrades make it feel worth it. Hit dealers by spring 2026 with incentives likely to sweeten the deal.
| Key Specifications | Gas Model | Hybrid Model |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4 cyl 169 hp | 2.0L + electrics 196 hp |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT front direct drive rear |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | AWD standard |
| Fuel Economy | 31 city 33 hwy | 46 city 39 hwy 42 combined |
| Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs | 1500 lbs |
| Starting Price | 24935 | 29295 |
Standout Upgrades
- Bigger 10.5 inch screen with wireless phone links for easy nav
- Redesigned console hides clutter and boosts storage
- New 18 inch wheels in cool finishes for better grip and style
- Portobello brown seats add a warm touch inside
- Cold weather package with heated wheel on select trims
Quick Answers
What is the starting price for the 2026 Corolla Cross?
Gas versions begin at 24935 dollars while hybrids start at 29295.
Does the hybrid come with all wheel drive?
Yes it has standard all wheel drive powered by electric motors out back.
How much cargo space does it offer?
You get 25 cubic feet behind the seats expanding to 66 with them folded.
Are there new safety features this year?
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard including lane keep and auto braking.
When will it hit showrooms?
Expect it at dealers in early spring 2026.
