Google has announced a broad set of security upgrades for Android at the Android Show I/O Edition today, and the most impactful ones target the scams that cost users real money. From automatically hanging up on fake bank calls to hiding your one-time passwords (OTPs) from malicious apps, the updates add up to Google’s most significant push yet to protect Android users from fraudsters and rogue software.
Your bank will verify its own calls
The headliner of today’s announcement is verified financial calls, a new feature that automatically ends phone calls from numbers spoofing your bank or financial institution. Phone spoofing, where scammers use internet-based calling systems to fake a trusted caller ID, costs users an estimated $950 million annually worldwide. With the new feature, if you have a participating bank’s app installed and are signed in, Android will automatically check with the app in real time to confirm whether it’s actually calling you.
If the app says it isn’t, your phone will automatically hang up. The feature will roll out in the coming weeks to devices running Android 11 and later. At launch, it’ll support Revolut, Itaú, and Nubank, with more banks to follow later this year.
Google
Android’s Live Threat Detection is also getting broader coverage. The on-device AI tool will flag apps that silently forward your SMS messages or use accessibility permissions to display hidden content on your screen. A new dynamic signal monitoring capability will go even further, watching in real time for apps that change or hide their icons before launching in the background, which is a common malware tactic. It will also allow Google to push updated threat rules to devices as new attack patterns emerge. Dynamic signal monitoring will arrive with Android 17 on select devices in the second half of the year.
Android will also automatically hide OTPs from most apps for three hours, so malicious apps with SMS access won’t be able to intercept them while they’re active. Chrome on Android will gain the ability to scan APK files for known malware before a download completes. This feature will be available to users who have Safe Browsing turned on.
Stronger protections for high-risk users
For users who need the strongest protections available, Android’s Advanced Protection mode will get a significant upgrade with Android 17. It will restrict accessibility service access to apps explicitly labeled as accessibility tools, disable device-to-device unlocking and Chrome WebGPU support, and add scam detection for chat notifications. Android Enterprise support for Advanced Protection will arrive later in the year.
Two new security features are already in the process of rolling out ahead of Android 17: USB protection is coming to all devices running Android 16 and later, and Intrusion Logging, developed in partnership with Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders, is rolling out to devices running the Android 16 December update and newer.
On the OS integrity front, Android 17 will introduce Android OS verification, which will let you confirm your device is running an official build of Android. The feature will first arrive on Pixel devices.
Google
Google will also launch a public, append-only ledger that provides cryptographic proof that production Google apps on Android are authentic. Android 17 will also introduce Post-Quantum Cryptography to protect data against future threats, and carriers will gain the ability to configure the disable 2G toggle to default to off, cutting off a common vector for network-based attacks.
Most of these protections will work automatically in the background, meaning Android users will be safeguarded against a wide range of attacks without having to change a single setting.
The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid has quickly become the default choice for buyers looking to step into an affordable hybrid SUV. It’s practical, efficient, and backed by a reputation that makes it an easy recommendation. But when you look beyond the badge, it’s no longer the clear-cut value leader it appears to be.
One Korean rival from Kia quietly outperforms it where it matters most. It’s cheaper to buy, significantly more fuel-efficient, and offers a more refined and spacious experience, despite targeting the same budget-conscious buyers. Instead of just meeting expectations, it raises them for what an entry-level hybrid SUV should deliver.
That’s what makes this comparison so one-sided. When a vehicle costs less while doing more, using less fuel, offering more room, and feeling more polished, it stops being an alternative and starts looking like the obvious choice.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites, including the EPA.
The Toyota Crown Signia does more than keep up. In several categories, it sets the pace.
There aren’t many small hybrid SUVs, but the Kia Niro is the best
Easily the most budget-friendly crossover on the market
Hybrid crossovers are a really attractive proposition. You get the added practicality of an SUV and fuel efficiency that keeps your monthly fuel bills low. Perhaps the most obvious choice here, especially if you’re on a tight budget, is the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, and the most efficiency, then the Kia Niro remains king of the subcompact SUV segment.
2026 Kia Niro Hybrid trims and pricing
Models
Starting MSRP
LX
$27,390
EX
$30,190
SX
$33,390
SX Touring
$35,790
As we’ve already mentioned, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is kind of the benchmark for small hybrid SUVs, with its badge definitely helping make it so popular. The Toyota has a starting price of $29,395, meaning it is just over $2,000 more expensive than the Kia. Despite this, we think even the most affordable Niro Hybrid feels more refined, better equipped, and, to top it all off, its more efficient.
With the Niro being one of the most affordable crossovers on the market, you have a little wiggle room when it comes to trims. We still wouldn’t climb the ladder far, as we think the EX offers the best bang for your buck. It comes with niceties like a smartphone charging pad, faux-leather upholstery, and an upgraded infotainment screen. The Premium package is also definitely worth the extra $2,000, adding things like a panoramic sunroof, a power-operated tailgate, and a premium sound system.
Fun behind the wheel doesn’t have to mean pain at the pump.
Neither are particularly entertaining, but the Niro is lighter on fuel
Beating Toyota at the hybrid game isn’t easy
Toyota is one of the most experienced automakers out there when it comes to building hybrid powertrains, with the Japanese brand being a big proponent of the setup. This is why it’s so impressive that the little Niro comes out ahead when it comes to efficiency. On top of this, Kia has delivered a more refined driving experience that feels better than you’d expect considering the price you pay.
Kia Niro Hybrid performance and efficiency
Base Trim Engine
1.6L I4 Hybrid
Base Trim Transmission
6-speed auto-shift manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
103.5 HP @5700 RPM
Base Trim Torque
106.3 lb.-ft. @ 4000 RPM
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
53/54/53 MPG
Base Trim Battery Type
Lithium polymer (LiPo)
Make
Kia
Model
Niro
The Corolla Cross Hybrid has a little more grunt than the Kia, putting down 196 horsepower versus the Niro’s dinky 139 horses. The 1.6-liter engine in the Korean crossover is an underachiever, which is why it takes around 8.9 seconds to get up to 60 miles per hour. With both of these crossovers being more urban crawlers than highway cruisers, we don’t think that lack of power is the end of the world.
There really isn’t a winner when it comes to driving engagement here, with both small SUVs being exceptionally dull to drive. However, the Kia Niro does come feature a pretty plush ride quality. It also gets a six-speed DCT instead of the CVT in the Corolla, which results in less droning when accelerating, resulting in a more refined experience.
Fuel economy
Model
City
Highway
Combined
Kia Niro FE
53 MPG
54 MPG
53 MPG
Kia Niro
53 MPG
45 MPG
49 MPG
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
46 MPG
39 MPG
42 MPG
Efficiency is a massive reason to pick a Kia Niro over a Corolla Cross Hybrid. The base model Niro is rated for up to 53 miles per gallon combined, with every other model managing 49 miles per gallon combined. This means that even the least efficient Niro is rated to get seven more miles per gallon than a Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 AWD Performance Calligraphy Black Ink reveal
Kia delivers a sleek and stylish interior in the 2026 Niro
Meanwhile, the Corolla Cross is a bit boring
Toyota has always been known to value simplicity, and this has often resulted in somewhat underwhelming interiors. While there isn’t anything wrong with the cabin of the Corolla Cross, and it does come well-equipped, it does lean a little too far in the utilitarian direction. The Niro, on the other hand, finds a good middle ground between simplicity and modernity.
Interior dimensions and comfort
Model
Kia Niro Hybrid
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
Front row headroom
40.5 inches
38.6 inches
Front row legroom
41.5 inches
42.9 inches
Second row headroom
39.6 inches
39 inches
Second row legroom
39.8 inches
32 inches
Cargo capacity (behind second row)
22.8 cubic feet
21.5 cubic feet
Both the Niro and the Corolla Cross feel very practical for cheap subcompact SUVs, but the Kia has a pretty clear advantage. The Niro offers a much more spacious rear row of seats, with tons of legroom. You’d have no problem fitting even particularly tall passengers in the rear seats. It also does have a slightly more spacious cargo hold, though the difference here is much smaller.
Both the Corolla Cross and Niro have similar philosophies regarding interior design, but with some differences in execution. Both aim for basic functionality, but the Kia does it in a much more contemporary way. It’s obvious at all times that both crossovers are budget-oriented, in no small part thanks to the cheap plastics used, but build quality is good. The Kia also offers a few upscale touches that put it ahead of its Japanese rival, especially on higher trim levels.
Infotainment and technology
There is very little competition between the Niro and Corolla Cross when it comes to tech features. Both come standard with an eight-inch infotainment screen to start, with a 10.3-inch screen available on every trim but the base Niro and a 10.5-inch screen being optional in the Corolla Cross.
The two budget crossovers are fairly evenly matched when it comes to other tech features. Things like smartphone mirroring and a wireless smartphone charging pad are available on the Kia and Toyota. One key difference is the optional sound systems, with the Niro’s seven-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system performing much better than the optional JBL system in the Corolla Cross.
Cheaper, more efficient, and more refined
When comparing these two small crossovers side-by-side, it’s really hard to make a case for the Toyota. The Corolla Cross does have more power and comes with the peace of mind you get from the Toyota badge, but in just about every other way the Kia feels like the better deal. For less money, you’re getting a crossover that is more spacious, less boring on the inside, and far more efficient. In just about every way, the Niro is a more successful budget hybrid crossover.
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
