Toyota has expanded its lineup of electric vehicles with the introduction of the Urban Cruiser, following the bZ4X crossover. This new model is a compact electric crossover that is produced alongside the Suzuki e Vitara in India.
To understand the significance of the Urban Cruiser, we need to take a quick history lesson. The Urban Cruiser nameplate was previously used in Europe for a subcompact crossover that was sold under the Scion brand in North America as the xD. However, after being discontinued in the late 2010s, the Urban Cruiser name is making a comeback, this time as an all-electric compact crossover inspired by the Urban SUV concept.
Measuring 168.7 inches in length, 70.8 inches in width, and 64.5 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches, the Toyota Urban Cruiser is larger than the Yaris Cross and C-HR hybrids but smaller than the bZ4X electric crossover. It shares the same platform, battery, electric motors, and interior as the Suzuki e Vitara, as they are both manufactured in the same Indian factory.
When it comes to the powertrain options, the Toyota Urban Cruiser offers a choice between a 49 or 61-kilowatt-hour battery, both of the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type. The smaller battery version is paired with a front-mounted electric motor producing 142 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque. The larger battery can be combined with either the same 142 hp front motor or a dual-motor all-wheel drive system generating a total output of 181 hp and 221 lb-ft.
Toyota has not disclosed the driving range of the Urban Cruiser, but all versions come with a heat pump and a manual pre-heating option for the battery to enhance efficiency and reduce charging times in cold weather. The front-wheel drive variant features a Snow Mode for better traction on snow-covered roads, while the all-wheel drive version includes Downhill Assist control and Trail Mode for improved off-road performance.
Safety features on the Urban Cruiser include a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and lane keep assist. The dashboard boasts a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen for a modern driving experience.
More details about the Toyota Urban Cruiser will be revealed at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show in January. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting new addition to Toyota’s electric vehicle lineup.