2026 Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid. Image: Courtesy of Toyota
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross
MSRP: $24,635 starting price for gas model; $28,995 for hybrid. As tested: $37,524 for hybrid with XSE trim plus moonroof, power liftgate and premium audio.
Under the hood: 196-hp hybrid powertrain with standard all-wheel-drive averages 42 mpg. Also available with a 169-hp gas engine averaging 30 mpg in all-wheel-drive.
What's new: A new front-end design and fun Cavalry Blue paint option, plus an available 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen.
What I loved: Designed to look like a mini RAV4, the subcompact Corolla Cross has more presence than I expected. There's also a long list of standard safety features.
What I didn't love: It's not as sporty as the Mazda CX-30 I drove recently.
The bottom line: I like the Toyota Corolla in SUV form. It's a practical choice and a great value for budget-minded consumers.
I test-drive vehicles in my role as a juror for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Opinions are my own.
