Toyota has unveiled the highly anticipated Urban Cruiser, a compact battery electric SUV that combines powerful design, spacious interiors, and cutting-edge technology. Developed from the Urban SUV Concept, this model marks a major step in Toyota’s mission to strengthen its presence in the fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) market. The Urban Cruiser is set to compete in Europe’s highly competitive compact EV segment, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and versatility.
Impactful SUV Design
The Toyota Urban Cruiser’s design makes an immediate statement. With its rugged SUV-inspired body and dynamic silhouette, the Urban Cruiser stands apart from its competitors. The “hammerhead” front end, a signature Toyota design feature, contributes to its bold, contemporary look. The powerful bumpers and striking rear light arrangement that wraps around the car’s muscular haunches highlight its tough character.
The Urban Cruiser’s compact dimensions offer a balance of size and agility, measuring 4,285 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,640 mm in , with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. The turning radius of just 5.2 meters reflects its impressive maneuverability. Its sharp, aerodynamic 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels further enhance its sleek exterior. A range of vibrant exterior colors, including bi-tone options with a contrasting black roof, ensures that owners can express their personal style.
Spacious and Versatile Interior
Step inside, and the Urban Cruiser’s long wheelbase (+140 mm compared to the Yaris Cross) reveals a surprisingly spacious cabin. Thanks to the sliding rear seat system, the distance between front and rear passengers can be easily adjusted to provide ample legroom, rivaling larger D-segment SUVs. The 40:20:40 split-folding seats add even more versatility, enabling passengers to configure the interior for maximum comfort or expanded load space.
The clean, open cabin features a low horizontal instrument panel, while the high seating position gives both the driver and passengers excellent visibility. The interior design combines black and dark grey upholstery, with ambient lighting offering 12 different colors to set the perfect mood. Whether for a relaxed evening drive or a day trip, the cabin adapts to suit your needs.
Powertrain and Performance
The Toyota Urban Cruiser will be available with two battery pack options and either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Both powertrains utilize lithium-iron phosphate technology for enhanced durability and safety at a reduced cost. Acceleration is smooth and responsive, whether from a standstill or during overtaking maneuvers.
- The FWD version will offer a 49 kWh battery, delivering 106 kW (144 hp).
- An upgraded 61 kWh battery will be available in the FWD model, offering 128 kW (174 hp).
- For those seeking more traction, the AWD model with a 61 kWh battery provides 135 kW (184 hp).
All versions feature a heat pump for energy-efficient climate control and manual battery pre-heating for optimal performance in colder climates.
Advanced Safety and Technology
True to Toyota’s commitment to safety, all versions of the Urban Cruiser come equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features. These include a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and lane-keeping assist. A 360-degree camera system offers a complete view of the surroundings, making tight parking spaces or rough terrain easier to navigate.
The interior is equipped with modern tech, including a 10.25-inch digital combimeter and a 10.1-inch multimedia display that integrates seamlessly for a smooth user experience. The cloud-based satellite navigation system keeps drivers up to date with the latest traffic data, while smartphone integration ensures connectivity with favorite apps. Toyota’s HomeCharge wallbox makes charging easier than ever, and the MyToyota app allows owners to monitor their vehicle’s battery status, locate charging stations, and schedule charging sessions.
All-Wheel Drive Performance
For those seeking enhanced stability and traction, the Urban Cruiser offers an AWD system that includes a 48 kW rear motor for superior performance on loose or slippery surfaces. Features like Downhill Assist Control and Trail Mode ensure confidence on rough terrains, while the FWD model benefits from a “snow mode” to manage drive torque on snow-covered roads.
Specifications at a Glance
- Length: 4,285 mm
- Width: 1,800 mm
- Height: 1,640 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,700 mm
- Turning radius: 5.2 meters
- Wheel sizes: 18 or 19 inches
- Battery options: 49 kWh (FWD) / 61 kWh (FWD, AWD)
- Output: 106 kW (FWD) / 128 kW (FWD) / 135 kW (AWD)
- Safety features: Pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert
- Interior: 10.25-inch digital display, 10.1-inch multimedia system
- Technology: Toyota HomeCharge wallbox, MyToyota app
The Toyota Urban Cruiser (2026) is an exciting addition to the electric SUV market, offering the perfect mix of style, practicality, and cutting-edge technology for a wide range of customers.
Source: Toyota
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
