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Toyota, known for stalwart models like the Corolla and Camry, has also established a robust presence in the crossover and SUV segments. While the Prius and Toyota’s broader hybrid lineup are well known, their small SUVs and crossovers deserve just as much attention. With the Toyota C-HR discontinued in North America after 2022 and Venza in 2024, the lineup now leans heavily into electrification (more specifically, hybrid electrication). This overview takes a current look at each small Toyota crossover available today and what it brings to the table in 2026.
- Corolla Cross – Gas (subcompact)
- Corolla Cross Hybrid (subcompact)
- RAV4 Hybrid (compact)
- RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (compact)
- bZ (electric compact)
- Discontinued: Venza (mid-size)
Toyota Corolla Cross – Gas (Subcompact Crossover SUV)
The gas-powered Corolla Cross remains unchanged for 2026, keeping things super simple and serving as Toyota’s most affordable and straightforward crossover. Powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower and paired with a CVT, it prioritizes smooth operation, efficiency, and low ownership costs over performance. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the Corolla Cross is positioned as a practical step up from a compact sedan, with standard Toyota Safety Sense and incremental infotainment updates keeping it competitive in the crowded subcompact SUV segment.
Related – 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Review
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (Subcompact Crossover SUV)
Since first arriving for 2023, the Corolla Cross Hybrid remains the standout choice in Toyota’s smallest SUV category for 2026, combining standard electronic all-wheel drive with a fifth-generation hybrid system producing a combined 194 horsepower. Built on the TNGA-C platform, it delivers noticeably stronger acceleration than the gas model while returning excellent real-world fuel economy. With a more confident driving feel and better year-round usability, the hybrid version has effectively become the default recommendation for buyers who want efficiency without sacrificing traction or responsiveness.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (Compact Crossover SUV)
For 2026, the RAV4 shifts to a hybrid-only lineup, meaning there’s no gas-only RAV4 to choose from anymore. The upside is simple: the “base” RAV4 now starts with electrified efficiency and stronger output than the old gas model, while still delivering the same practical, do-everything compact SUV formula that made it a bestseller. Depending on market and trim, you’ll see front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, updated tech and displays, and the same broad spread of trims that let the RAV4 cover everything from daily duty to light adventure without trying too hard to be something it isn’t. Plus, the more rugged RAV4 Woodland is for those heading off the pavement.
Related – 2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Vs Subaru Forester Wilderness
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV Compact Crossover SUV)
Formly called Prime, the plug-in RAV4 continues from 2025 as the top-tier, most powerful expression of the lineup, pairing plug-in capability with real performance and everyday flexibility. Toyota positions the 2026 plug-in model with significantly more power than the standard hybrid setup, plus meaningful EV-only driving for short daily trips, then a gas engine for longer distances, no-planning-required road travel. Some reports also point to faster charging support and upgraded charging hardware for the 2026 plug-in model, reinforcing its role as Toyota’s most “EV-like” RAV4 without sacrificing road-trip convenience.
Related – First Drive: 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Still Hits the Sweet Spot
Toyota bZ (EV Compact Crossover SUV)
The Toyota bZ replaces the bZ4X name for 2026 (and we’re glad they did), simplifying Toyota’s EV branding while keeping the vehicle itself largely familiar. Offered in front- or all-wheel drive configurations, the bZ focuses on quiet operation, conservative tuning, and everyday usability rather than chasing class-leading range or performance figures. It reflects Toyota’s cautious EV philosophy: prioritizing durability and ease of ownership for buyers who want an electric crossover that still feels unmistakably Toyota. Like the RAV4, bZ also offers the Woodland trim carried over from 2025.
Discontinued: Toyota Venza (Hybrid Mid-Size SUV)
The Toyota Venza was discontinued after the 2024 model year but remains relevant for used-vehicle shoppers looking for a more refined, hybrid-only alternative to the RAV4. Since the 2021 redesign, the Venza had finally come into its own. Sharing Toyota’s 219-horsepower hybrid system and standard all-wheel drive, the Venza emphasized comfort, quietness, and upscale design over rugged styling or maximum cargo space. For buyers willing to shop pre-owned, it still occupies a unique niche within Toyota’s crossover history.
Related – 2021 Toyota Venza Limited Review
