2026 Toyota Corolla Cross XSE
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross XSE
By Team Dailyrevs May 9, 2025
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross XSE Hybrid introduces a color-matched grille and new two-tone paint options.
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Interior enhancements include a 10.5-inch touchscreen and redesigned center console.
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The hybrid model delivers 196 hp with standard AWD, maintaining 42 mpg combined.
A Cleaner Look That Finally Matches Its Intent
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross XSE Hybrid rolls in with tweaks that matter—especially visually. The blacked-out front grille is gone, replaced by a new body-color unit that actually feels more premium. Doesn’t try too hard, but looks more complete.
There's also a new Cavalry Blue paint job in the mix—paired with a contrasting Jet Black roof if you’re into the two-tone thing. Toyota seems to be leaning into style a bit more this time, but staying safely within the Corolla Cross lane.
The proportions stay familiar—tall enough to feel SUV-ish, compact enough to thread through city traffic. Slightly boxy, slightly athletic. Just enough tension in the lines to keep it from looking sleepy.
Inside: Familiar Layout, Smarter Execution
The biggest changes are probably inside. Not wild changes, but the kind that show Toyota's been listening. The redesigned center console clears up space—no unnecessary bulk—and a new 10.5-inch touchscreen sits cleanly up top. It’s crisp, runs Toyota’s newer interface, and finally feels like it belongs in 2025, not 2015.
Higher trims like the XSE also get a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, which is customizable and clean. Nothing flashy, but it gets the job done without clutter.
The Hybrid Setup: Still the Sweet Spot
Under the hood, things stay the course. The 2.0-liter engine paired with three electric motors is back, still delivering a combined 196 horsepower. And you get electronic on-demand all-wheel drive standard with the hybrid—great for rain, snow, or just a little extra grip off the line.
Toyota says it still does 42 mpg combined. That’s hard to argue with in a segment where fuel economy usually comes second to turbocharging.
Where It Lands in a Busy Crowd
In the compact SUV universe, there’s no shortage of competition. The Honda HR-V’s getting sharper. The Hyundai Kona’s edgier. Mazda’s CX-30 still wins on style. But the Corolla Cross XSE Hybrid holds ground with one clear trick: practicality with hybrid efficiency that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
And now that it looks and feels a little more upscale, it’s not just the rational choice—it’s a bit more of a want than a need.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Performance | Power Output: 196 hp (146 kW) Fuel Economy: 42 mpg combined 0–60 mph: 7.4 seconds |
| Powertrain | Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder + 3 electric motors Drivetrain: Electronic On-Demand AWD Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Capacities | Cargo Volume: 22 cu ft behind second row Fuel Tank: 10.6 gallons (estimated) |
| Pricing | Starting MSRP: $29,845 (2025 model year) Top Trim Estimate: Just over $33,500 |