Kumbi-M on Cars

Toyota's Urban Cruiser has constantly held the top spot in the fiercely competitive B-SUV segment since its launch in 2021, capturing a market share of 19%. It has demonstrated that it is the right product at the right pricing by accomplishing this. Due to the growing need for room at an affordable price as well as the preferred loftier driving position provided by an SUV, crossovers have steadily replaced hatchbacks in the "high" B segment, where the Urban Cruiser competes.

Quick facts

• 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine delivering 77kW and 138Nm of torque
• Choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic (XR)
• Fuel usage is estimated to be a frugal 6,1 L/100 km in the combined cycle.

Let's face it, the current economic situation has also prompted customers to forego new car purchases in favour of less expensive options. In this case, they are spoiled for choice because Toyota offers a model to suit every demand. The Starlet, an entry hatch for individuals who are especially frugal and for whom an SUV is not essential, sits atop this B-segment ladder. The GR Yaris, a true sports vehicle, is in a special position at the top of the B sector. And the people-hauling Rumion, flanked by the recently christened Urban Cruiser SUV, a no-compromise package for the clever citified explorer, fits perfectly in between, albeit much more value-focused.

As a result, Toyota is happy to welcome the brand-new Urban Cruiser to its lineup. Building on the popularity of the previous model, the newcomer offers customers even more: it is noticeably bigger, commands a far greater presence on the road thanks to styling cues borrowed from Toyota SUVs, is more feature-rich, and includes more safety equipment. It's constructed in the Toyota plant in India, and Toyota led the platform development, which is reassuring.

Exterior

It is immediately clear that the new Urban Cruiser has undergone a significant transformation. Design characteristics like the clamshell bonnet, narrow light treatment, and gaping lower grille indicate that it is connected to other Toyota SUVs, most notably the Fortuner and RAV4. It has also grown significantly in size; the body length has gone up by 370mm, and the wheelbase has grown by 100mm to reach 2600mm. It has a little more width and height than the previous model, and it has better ground clearance (210mm vs. 195mm).

Interior

The new Urban Cruiser's cockpit is a visually appealing combination of textiles and textures. Subtle silver accents, like chrome door handles, satin-plated trim inserts, and ventilation controls with metallic tips, brighten the cabin's mostly black interior. The interior is finished with premium black striated fabric upholstery.

The easy-to-read 7-inch infotainment screen, which is of course Android Auto and Wireless Apple CarPlay equipped, commands attention in the entirely redesigned dashboard.

Drivetrain

The well-known 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, which produces 77kW and 138Nm of torque, has been modified for the new Urban Cruiser. With a top speed of 170 or 175 km/h for the manual and automatic, respectively, it offers energetic performance, but its star quality really shines through when you need to fill up because the combined cycle fuel consumption is estimated at a frugal 6,1 L/100 km. Customers have a choice of a 4-speed (XR) automatic gearbox or a 5-speed manual gearbox, both of which drive the front wheels.

MacPherson struts and a torsion beam make up the suspension system's front and rear, respectively. The configuration offers a supple ride that finds the ideal mix between handling and comfort under all driving circumstances.

Safety

The installation of VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control) in all models is the major safety update. But that's not all; a third rear ELR seatbelt as well as a centre rear headrest are now standard. In addition to the normal driver and passenger airbags, XR models also get side and curtain airbags. ABS with EBD, ISOFIX, and an alarm/immobilizer system complete the range's overall safety and security package.

Pricing

Urban Cruiser 1.5 XS MT R 329 400

Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR MT R 347 400

Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR AT R 369 900

All Urban Cruiser models are now sold with a longer Service Plan of 4 years/60 000km service plan. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided. Service intervals are pegged at 12 months/15 000 km. Customers can purchase an additional service plan and warranty options via the extensive 220-strong dealer network.