2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Turns Fully Hybrid, Rolls Out Aggressive GR Sport Edition

Toyota Corolla Cross 2026, hybrid SUV, GR Sport, HEV Smart, Toyota Safety Sense, hybrid crossover, urban SUV 1

Toyota unveils the 2026 Corolla Cross, dropping petrol models for a 100% hybrid lineup and introducing the bold GR Sport variant. Discover specs, pricing, and tech today!

Thailand’s Toyota Motor Thailand has announced the 2026 Corolla Cross lineup, marking a decisive shift toward an all‑hybrid strategy. The conventional 1.8‑litre gasoline engine is gone for good, replaced by a range of HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) trims, including a new sport‑focused GR Sport version.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2026 Corolla Cross will be offered in four distinct trims:

  • HEV Smart – ฿989,000 (≈ $27,000)
  • HEV Premium – ฿1,094,000 (≈ $30,000)
  • HEV Premium Luxury – ฿1,204,000 (≈ $33,000)
  • HEV GR Sport – ฿1,254,000 (≈ $34,500)

The entry‑level HEV Smart replaces the former 1.8‑L gasoline model and becomes the most affordable Corolla Cross in the range.

Hybrid Powertrain Details

All trims share the same proven hybrid system: a 1.8‑L gasoline engine (97 hp, 142 Nm) paired with an electric motor (72 hp, 163 Nm). Power is delivered through an e‑CVT and front‑wheel drive. According to Eco Sticker data, the hybrid achieves roughly 23.8 km / L (≈ 56 mpg) and meets Euro 6 emissions standards.

GR Sport Design Tweaks

The GR Sport variant gets a more aggressive look with sharper front and rear bumpers, gun‑metal paint accents, and the distinctive GR badge. Inside, the cabin retains the same spacious layout but adds sport‑styled stitching and unique trim pieces.

Tech and Comfort Features

Higher‑spec trims feature a larger 10.1‑inch infotainment screen equipped with the latest Toyota Multimedia system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus optional wireless phone charging. Audio options range from a standard six‑speaker setup to an upgraded nine‑speaker JBL system.

Comfort highlights include dual‑zone automatic climate control, USB‑C ports for both front and rear passengers, and a flexible 60:40 rear‑seat fold‑flat configuration that expands cargo space.

Safety Suite

Every 2026 Corolla Cross comes with Toyota Safety Sense, offering pre‑collision warning with emergency braking, dynamic radar cruise control, lane‑departure alert with lane‑keeping assist, and automatic high‑beam control. Core safety systems such as ABS, EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, hill‑start assist, blind‑spot monitoring, and rear‑cross‑traffic alert are also standard.

Market Strategy

By eliminating the gasoline‑only model, Toyota signals a firm commitment to hybrid technology across Southeast Asia, where fuel efficiency and low emissions are increasingly demanded. The addition of the budget‑friendly HEV Smart expands reach to price‑sensitive buyers, while the GR Sport targets younger, style‑conscious urban SUV enthusiasts.

Overall, the 2026 Corolla Cross reshapes its portfolio around hybrid power, offering a greener driving experience without sacrificing the practicality and comfort that have made the model popular.

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