The Toyota Corolla Cross has proudly embraced its role as the company’s entry-level SUV but while it helped lower the price ceiling for buyers looking to enter the Toyota family, it was also no secret that it was behind rivals in some categories with the exterior styling being blander than it should have been.
Toyota has made some updates for 2026 with the Corolla Cross not only getting a new front end but other updates that attempt to make it a better SUV offering than before.
New face gives the Corolla Cross a new lease on life
A key change for the 2026 model year is the addition of a new face with the old front fascia being swapped out for a new one depending on powertrain. Hybrid versions get a color-matching grille while the gas models get a more rugged-looking front end. The engines themselves are unchanged at 196 and 169 hp respectively which might disappoint those hoping to see more of a power boost from both engines with the CVT also being carried over too.
The interior gets a new 10.5-inch infotainment system with the new screen being mounted on a reworked center console. Toyota also removed some trim and rearranged the layout of the charging ports and the cupholders to improve usability. Toyota will offer the gas-powered Corolla in three trims for 2026: L, LE, and XLE. The Corolla Cross Hybrid will also have three trims available: S, SE, and XSE. Calvary Blue is making its debut in the color lineup for this year and it will be available on the LE, XLE, SE, and XSE. A new set of 18-inch wheels are also available, but only on select trim levels.
When can I buy one?
Toyota didn’t reveal the final pricing ladder for the 2026 model but expect the pricing to creep up slightly from the 2025 model with the base gas model starting at $25,485. The Hybrid S starts at $29,845 so look for the 2026 model to retain the value-focused pricing ladder that has made it a strong contender for the budget-minded consumer.
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.