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2025 GMC Terrain ReviewToyota Updates the Corolla Cross for 2026
Get a look at the refreshed exterior and updated cabin in this sneak peek of the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross.
An Updated Toyota Corolla Cross
The first-generation Toyota Corolla Cross hasn’t entered a new generation yet, but it’s been around for a little while now, so Toyota figured it was time for a refresh. That’s where the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross rolls in. Though it’s not available yet, Toyota revealed that it gave the little crossover updates inside and out. They made some features standard across the lineup, refreshed the cabin, and introduced some new features.
It’s Unchanged Under the Hood
Before we get to some of the aesthetic updates, let’s talk about the engines and outputs. If you compare the numbers of the 2026 Corolla Cross to those in our review of the 2024 model, you’re going to see that they’re the same. That’s because Toyota went with the same setup here.
The hybrid uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), and three electric motors. It gets a net output of 196 horsepower with an estimated 42 combined miles per gallon (MPG) rating. The gas-powered models also use the same engine as before: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine and CVT to produce 169 horsepower and an estimated combined 30 MPG.
Specific Styling
The front fascia has been updated across the lineup. The hybrid and gas models even have a couple of differences. The body color on hybrid models carries over onto the grille. Meanwhile, the gas model has a taller, black, more rugged-looking design. Along with the styling, a new Cavalry Blue color is available on select trims. Also new are 18-inch alloy wheels, finished in dark gray on the XLE or black on the XSE trim.
Some Small Cabin Changes
Like the powertrain and drivetrain, the actual infotainment offerings remain mostly unchanged. However, the top-tiered XLE and XSE trims are equipped with a 10.5-inch screen instead of an eight-inch screen that was used in the 2025 models. The actual placement of the screen is in the same place, but a lot of the controls have moved from beneath the screen to further down, by the shifter. It gives the entire setup a much cleaner look.
Lower trims get fabric-trimmed seats but XLE owners get seats trimmed with SofTex, a synthetic leather. Even more synthetic leather is used in the XSE. XLE AWD and Hybrid XSE models also come standard with a Cold Weather package which includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
A Full Safety Suite
So far, the safety elements of the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross remain unchanged. The Le, XLE, SE, and XSE all have blind-spot monitoring and a rear cross-traffic alert. The XLE and XSE also add front and rear parking assist with automatic emergency braking.
Toyota’s full Safety Sense 3.0 suite and STAR Safety System are standard across the lineup. Just look at what that includes:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Lane tracing assist
- Proactive driving assist
- Traction control
- Brake assist
- Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
- Road sign assist
- Smart stop technology
- Automatic high beams
Other Available Features
Toyota rounds off the 2026 Corolla Cross updates with accessories for people who want to get out and adventure a little bit. Whether the Corolla Cross ends up at dust-filled roadside stops or in colder climates, the available all-weather floor mats should help keep the car clean.
A roof rack with crossbars can be added for anyone wanting to stow extra luggage and an activity mount can be added to carry bicycles. Finally, drivers can include a tow hitch that maxes out at 1,500 lbs. You won’t be hauling much, but could at least pull some kayaks, dirt bikes, or other light-weight equipment.
Pricing hasn’t been revealed yet, but the base 2025 trim started at $23,310 and the Corolla Cross landed on our list of the Most Affordable 2024 Hybrids. Production is scheduled to start in the Huntsville, Alabama plant over the summer, landing the Cross in dealership showrooms later this year.
