Toyota has unveiled the all-new Urban Cruiser, a compact SUV reimagined as a battery electric vehicle (BEV). This marks Toyota’s latest addition to its growing portfolio of electric vehicles and strengthens its presence in the competitive European BEV market. The Urban Cruiser is set to launch in the UK later this summer, with a starting price rumored to exceed £30,000.
Design and Dimensions
The Urban Cruiser adopts Toyota’s “hammerhead” design philosophy, featuring slim headlights, strong rear quarters, and a wrap-around rear light bar. Its design exudes a blend of SUV robustness and modern urban style, closely related to the e-Vitara.
Slightly larger than the Yaris Cross, the Urban Cruiser boasts a compact, 5.2-meter turning radius, making it highly maneuverable in city traffic.
Inside, the vehicle offers spaciousness, courtesy of a 2,700mm wheelbase and a sliding rear seat arrangement that enhances legroom to rival D-segment models.
The cabin embodies classic SUV elements, including a horizontal instrument panel and elevated seating for better visibility. Ambient lighting with 12 customizable color options adds to the interior’s premium feel.
Electric Platform and Powertrain
Built on Toyota’s new lightweight platform dedicated to BEVs, the Urban Cruiser avoids floor cross members, maximizing battery space without compromising cabin room. The SUV is available with two lithium-iron-phosphate battery options:
- 49-kWh Battery: Produces 142bhp and is available exclusively with front-wheel drive.
- 61-kWh Battery: Offered in front-wheel drive (172bhp) and all-wheel drive (182bhp).
The AWD version features an additional 48kW motor on the rear axle, equipped with Downhill Assist Control, Trail Mode, and Snow Mode to enhance performance in slippery conditions.
Safety and Technology
The Urban Cruiser comes equipped with an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alerts. A fully digital user interface integrates a 10.25-inch driver’s display with a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen for a seamless experience. Smartphone integration supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Premium features include a 360-degree camera, JBL sound system, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a fixed sunroof.
