Toyota Unveils the All-Electric Urban Cruiser to complement the Suzuki e-Vitara

​Toyota has unveiled the new Urban Cruiser, a fully electric compact SUV, designed to complement the recently introduced Suzuki e-Vitara. This sibling rivalry brings a fresh offering to the growing EV market. Set to go on sale in European markets in 2025, the Urban Cruiser is also likely to make its way to India, where Toyota already enjoys a strong presence.

Design

Toyota has successfully crafted an identity for the Urban Cruiser that distinguishes it from its Suzuki counterpart. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s ninth-generation Camry, the SUV’s design showcases swept-back headlamps with eyebrow-like DRL extensions, a distinct Toyota badge on a panel separating the grille and bonnet, and a clean bumper design with a large central air vent flanked by vertical side vents. Black cladding along the lower sections adds a touch of ruggedness to its modern design.

However, the similarities with the e-Vitara are undeniable when viewed from the side. The squared wheel arches, prominent haunches, and window lines are carried over, as is the charging port’s location on the front fender. The rear design also mirrors the e-Vitara, featuring lightbar-style tail lamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, and a similar bumper layout. Notably, Toyota has reworked the tail lamps’ internals for differentiation.

Cabin

Inside, the Urban Cruiser retains much of the Suzuki e-Vitara’s layout, including the free-standing touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, rectangular air vents, and two-spoke steering wheel. A row of physical buttons sits below the central air vents, accompanied by a rotary gear selector and an electronic parking brake.

Toyota adds its signature touch with an all-black upholstery scheme, giving the cabin a sportier feel. The rear seats are flexible, featuring a 40:20:40 split that allows for adjustments in recline and sliding positions.

Powertrain Options

Toyota offers the Urban Cruiser with two battery packs and multiple drivetrain options, ensuring flexibility for buyers:

• 49 kWh battery (Front-Wheel Drive): 142 bhp and 189 Nm of torque.
•  61 kWh battery (Front-Wheel Drive): 172 bhp and 189 Nm of torque.
• 61 kwh (All-Wheel Drive): 181 bhp and 300 Nm, thanks to a second electric motor on the rear axle.

The AWD variant also comes equipped with Trail Mode, which acts as a limited-slip differential by braking the free-spinning wheel and redirecting power to the opposite wheel for better off-road performance. FWD variants feature Snow Mode, optimizing traction on slippery surfaces.

Tech & Features

The Urban Cruiser comes loaded with advanced features, including:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen with the latest infotainment system.
• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
• 360-degree camera for easier parking.
• JBL premium sound system.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite for enhanced safety.

Manufacturing and Launch

Like its Suzuki sibling, the Urban Cruiser will be produced at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat facility, now wholly owned by Suzuki Motor Corporation.

The Road Ahead

With its distinct styling, versatile powertrain options, and premium feature set, the Toyota Urban Cruiser aims to carve its own niche in the competitive EV market. While its initial launch is confirmed for Europe, its entry into India could bolster Toyota’s position as a leading player in the growing electric vehicle segment.

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