2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid - What’s New and Improved?

Abu Dhabi : The 2026 Corolla Cross continues to give entry-level SUV buyers a good mix of style and value.

• The new Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid gets a body-coloured grille, new colour options and 18-inch alloy wheels.
• The interiors now get an optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument and a Cold Weather Package.
• The powertrain options remain the same, with the 2.0-litre petrol engine with three electric motors.

Toyota has unveiled the 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid with some thoughtful upgrades. These changes enhance both its look and performance without a full redesign. The updates help the Corolla Cross stay competitive in its class. The new model offers a fresh appearance and better functionality, making it more appealing to drivers. 

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross - Exterior Changes

One of the clearest changes is how the hybrid and petrol models differ. The hybrid has a grille that matches its body colour, giving the front of the car a smooth, unified look. The petrol version shows a darker, black grille, which makes it look more bold and rugged, showing its traditional SUV style.

A new splash of colour, Cavalry Blue, can be seen on some models like the Tacoma and 4Runner. It is now available on certain trims, such as the Hybrid SE and XSE. Customers can also choose a black roof, making a striking two-tone effect.

Two new wheel options are now available. The XLE variant has 18-inch alloy wheels in dark grey with shiny accents. The Hybrid XSE has 18-inch alloy wheels with a glossy-black finish, giving it a sportier look.

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross - Interior Enhancements

Inside, the Corolla Cross Hybrid now has a new centre console that offers more storage and easier access. The infotainment system has been upgraded with an optional 10.5-inch touchscreen. An optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is available on higher trims.

The comfort features have also been improved. The Cold Weather Package, which includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, can now be added to the XLE AWD and Hybrid XSE trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard.

For charging devices, the car gets Qi wireless charging, two USB Type-C ports in the front and two USB Type-C ports at the rear. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, making it easy to carry larger items like bags or golf clubs. This feature comes on all trims.

The car has a rear centre armrest with two cupholders. To make it easier to access the cargo space, there is an optional power liftgate with adjustable height.

Powertrain and Efficiency

The Toyota keeps the same powertrain as before. It features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors. Together, they produce 196 hp. All-wheel drive remains standard, with an electric motor powering the rear wheels. This setup offers good fuel economy, with an estimated 17.86 kmpl combined.

For those interested in the basic gasoline version, it continues to use a 2.0-litre inline-four engine. This engine delivers 169 hp. You can get this with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Safety

True to Toyota’s focus on safety, the Corolla Cross emphasises modern safety features. All versions include the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) package, which offers advanced active safety and convenience tools. The car also comes with Toyota’s well-known STAR Safety System.

Along with nine airbags, there are extra safety options like a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Parking features include Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, making parking easier and safer.

Launch and price in the UAE

The 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid will be available in S, SE, and XSE trims. The official prices have not been announced yet. However, expect the price to be slightly higher than the 2025 model, which ranged from AED 94,900 to 109,900.