America's 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross definitely looks better but appears to be missing something

The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross has been revealed with updates to the Corolla Cross Hybrid, a refreshed Toyota SUV design, and better Toyota interior tech.

These changes aim to bring the American model in line with international versions already launched overseas.

Visual and interior upgrades are the highlights of this facelift, giving the compact SUV a more refined feel.

However, one key feature from the global lineup is noticeably missing in the US version.

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The Corolla Cross Hybrid now features a reworked front bumper with a body-colored honeycomb grille, mirroring design cues from the Thai and European variants.

This effort to align the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross with global styling trends shows Toyota’s growing focus on a unified brand image.

The changes give the hybrid model a more modern appearance, especially when viewed head-on.

It’s a small adjustment, but one that makes a noticeable difference in how the car presents itself.

Meanwhile, the gas-powered variant of the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross gets minor exterior revisions, including a new grille and updated 18-inch alloy wheel options.

Buyers can choose between a dark gray finish or a gloss black look depending on the trim.

Toyota has also introduced a striking Cavalry Blue paint, which can be paired with a Jet Black roof to create a two-tone Toyota SUV design.

While subtle, these tweaks add visual depth to a model that was often described as conservative.

Under the hood, the Corolla Cross Hybrid retains its familiar hybrid engine, producing a combined 194 horsepower with standard all-wheel drive.

The gas version sticks with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 169 horsepower and paired with a CVT.

These carryovers mean performance is dependable but unchanged, something existing fans of the Toyota SUV design will appreciate.

However, new buyers might have expected at least a small boost in efficiency or performance.

Inside, Toyota interior tech sees its most meaningful upgrade.

A 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen now comes standard on XLE and XSE trims, replacing the older 8-inch unit.

Digital gauge clusters, USB-C charging ports, and wireless charging pads are now available across more trims.

For those prioritizing convenience and connectivity, these Toyota interior tech upgrades bring the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross closer to its rivals.

Despite the progress, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross will not be offered with the GR Sport trim in the United States.

This omission is significant, as the GR Sport version adds unique styling, a sharper suspension setup, and a more aggressive stance that dramatically changes the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s character.

Toyota has released this variant in Europe and Asia, where it’s been praised for elevating the typical Toyota SUV design into something more performance-inspired.

Yet for US buyers, that entire package is off the table.

Even without the GR Sport option, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross stands as a well-rounded compact SUV with valuable updates.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid now has stronger visual appeal, and the Toyota interior tech finally feels modern across all trims.

The Toyota SUV design continues to emphasize function and practicality, and for many buyers, that’s enough.

But for those looking for something with a bold, sportier edge, the absence of GR Sport may be a dealbreaker.

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