New Corolla Cross 2026 – GR SPORT, Hybrid Upgrades and Snow Mode Revealed

Toyota is giving its popular crossover a fresh new take for 2026. The new Toyota Corolla Cross is not just a facelift—it is a well-rounded evolution. It blends style, technology, and functionality in a package designed to match the daily needs of families, commuters, and adventurous drivers alike. Built on the reputation of the Corolla nameplate, this crossover embraces a more confident sport utility vehicle personality while staying true to Toyota’s values of quality, durability, and reliability.

The exterior has been refined to better suit European preferences, featuring a new honeycomb grille that does more than look good—it improves airflow to the engine. Adaptive high beam headlights on the top trim illuminate the road intelligently, while the LED guide lights add a premium touch. In the back, redesigned tail lamps come with aerodynamic fins to help keep the vehicle more stable. To top it all off, bold 18-inch alloy wheels provide a strong and planted look.

Step inside, and the cabin is clearly built with comfort and practicality in mind. The center console has been redesigned to include a larger gear shifter area, new smartphone storage, and improved cupholders. Wireless charging is now standard across the lineup, and Android connectivity has been enhanced to match Apple CarPlay’s charging speed—now 1.5 times faster than before.

On the technology front, the Corolla Cross includes the Toyota Smart Connect system with a 10.5-inch high-definition screen. A 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster is standard in most European markets. Upper trims benefit from extras like ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. These touches make it feel a lot more like a premium offering than you might expect from a compact crossover.

Toyota has also taken steps to make the cabin experience quieter and smoother. Engineers added high-damping materials to the roof bonding area to cut down on rain and road noise. Rear passengers benefit from new sound insulation near the ventilator, and upper trims get a triple-layer dashboard silencer to reduce engine sound.

Powertrain options include a Hybrid 140 and Hybrid 200, offering buyers a choice between efficiency and extra power. The hybrid system remains a key part of Toyota’s strategy for reducing emissions and giving customers a gateway to electrified mobility. Also part of Toyota’s compact utility lineup are the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the C-HR and the upcoming fully electric C-HR+.

For those in colder regions, Toyota has introduced a new Snow Extra mode. Available with the all-wheel-drive variant, it helps maintain traction during acceleration, braking, and cornering by leveraging the rear electric motor. It is a smart way to add safety and peace of mind when roads get slippery.

For the first time, Toyota is bringing a GR SPORT version to the Corolla Cross lineup. This grade offers a sportier drive and a bolder look. Highlights include machine-finished 19-inch black alloy wheels, a unique grille design, and a glossy black Toyota badge. Inside, the GR SPORT model adds suede-like synthetic leather seats with red stitching and GR logos.

The suspension is tuned for performance and lowered by 10 millimeters. Drivers also get paddle shifters and a new Sport Mode that increases idle speed and enhances both acceleration and deceleration response. Snow Extra mode is also included for year-round grip and control.

Every Corolla Cross is equipped with Toyota T-Mate, a safety suite that includes the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology along with over-the-air update capability and advanced driver assistance systems. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross will begin arriving in European dealerships by summer 2025, with the GR SPORT grade following in autumn.