Toyota Built a Lifted Corolla Cross Hybrid Nobody Asked For

Rethinking the Soft-Roader

The term “soft-roader” wasn’t exactly a compliment. Crossovers were often discarded as family vehicles pretending to be rugged. However, the advent of adventure-inspired trims and off-road accessory packages proves that not every trail-worthy vehicle needs to be a full-blown SUV.

The Toyota Corolla Cross, however, isn’t the first model that comes to mind when talking about soft-roaders – until now. For the 2025 SEMA Show, Toyota is breaking from expectations with the 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid Nasu Edition, a concept that transforms the small crossover into a mountain-ready companion.

The Corolla Cross Nasu Edition Build

Named after Japan’s Mt. Nasu, the concept channels both outdoor adventure and the spirit of achievement – the latter being another meaning of “nasu” in Japanese. The project was developed by Toyota’s Service Parts and Accessories Development (SPAD) team, known for creating factory-backed upgrades and lifestyle accessories. The group used CAD design, 3D printing, and CNC machining to assemble the build across several facilities.

The Nasu Edition stands out with a custom purple wrap – a nod to the “eggplant” meaning of nasu – and a one-off body kit with a hood scoop. The ride height is increased thanks to a custom suspension lift, while Toyo Open Country A/T III tires mounted on Toyota truck wheels give it the grip to handle dirt trails. Overlanding gear included, such as rock sliders, a roof rack with an articulating mount, and a cargo basket.

Inside, the cargo area gets a custom drawer system and refrigerator tray, while the lighting setup includes upgraded Toyota lightbars and illuminated interior details. As a final touch, a downhill mountain bike – modeled after the one used by Junior World Champion Asa Vermette – sits on the roof rack to complete the adventurous look.

One of Over Two Dozen Concept Builds

Under the hood, Toyota didn’t stray from the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s setup. The Nasu Edition keeps the 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder paired with three electric motors for a combined output of 196 horsepower, sending power to all four wheels. It’s a hardcore mechanical overhaul, but the Nasu Edition focuses on design and upgrades meant for outdoor excursion.

Toyota will show the 2026 Corolla Cross Hybrid Nasu Edition at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, running from November 4–7. It’s part of the automaker’s “Powered by Possibility” lineup, which features more than two dozen concept builds.