TOYOTA Corolla Cross 2026

Who remembers the Toyota Matrix?

This high-riding station wagon version of the Corolla, sold here from 2003 to 2014, had its share of fans because it offered undeniable practicality in a compact and economical format.

After the Matrix was discontinued, the Scion iM, later renamed the Corolla iM, held the fort in the compact hatchback segment within the Toyota group. Then came the Corolla Hatchback. However, their small size and, above all, their limited cargo space prevented them from claiming the same versatility as the Matrix.

Corolla Cross: the tall wagon turned subcompact SUV

That's where the Corolla Cross comes in. Launched for the 2022 model year, it picked up where the Matrix left off with its overall size and the availability of optional all-wheel drive. A hybrid version was added to the lineup for 2023.

Although its lines make it look more like an SUV than a station wagon, its connection to the Corolla goes beyond simply using that well-known name. The platform, suspension, and interior are closely derived from those of the sedan. The purely gasoline-powered models also use the same powertrain.

However, the two hybrid variants use the Prius's engine, which is significantly more powerful than the Corolla Hybrid's. This is undoubtedly why Toyota markets them exclusively in SE and XSE trims, two suffixes associated with the brand's moderately sporty models.

Hybrids: A Near-Exclusive Option in the Category

The subcompact SUV category is crucial in Quebec, as it now serves as the entry point for most manufacturers. The gasoline-powered Corolla Cross models have specifications comparable to those of several rivals, with their four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission.

On the other hand, hybrid versions are almost unique in the segment. In fact, they were until Subaru launched its Crosstrek Hybrid for 2026. Unlike Subaru, which only offers this option at the top of the range, Toyota also offers a dual-motor Corolla Cross at a more accessible price point—if you can call a price tag of nearly $39,000 (including freight, PDI, and dealer fees) affordable.

High price, limited availability

The Corolla Cross XSE hybrid we tested during the holiday season, with its black-painted roof, had a price tag just over $42,000. Built in the United States, in a plant jointly owned by Toyota and Mazda, the small SUV consistently imposes long wait times on its buyers.

See the Review section for our experts' driving impressions, in five key points.

Many Toyota vehicles have recently acquired a distinctive "personality" thanks to their dynamic styling and driving dynamics. The Prius and Camry, both exclusively hybrids, are among them.

This is not the case with the Corolla Cross, even though its hybrid versions use the same powertrain as the Prius. The smoothness of this powertrain alone cannot compensate for the light steering or the bland handling.

Fuel consumption doesn't seem to be a reward either, as it nearly matched that of a previous-generation non-hybrid RAV4 during our test drive. The resulting limited driving range is a serious annoyance.

Insufficient sound insulation also detracts from the refinement, although the gasoline-electric hybrid proves quieter than the purely combustion-engine four-cylinder.

A rational choice

The Corolla Cross's real appeal lies in the many pragmatic attributes that have made Toyota's reputation.

Comfort is a given, thanks to suspension that's supple enough to absorb the numerous road imperfections without jostling the occupants too much. Interior space also sets this model apart from many competitors, although a subcompact SUV struggles to accommodate a family and all their belongings for a holiday road trip.

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