Exploring the Toyota Urban Cruiser: A Capable and Efficient Hybrid SUV

Toyota offers a variety of compact SUVs, currently featuring the C-HR and the Corolla Cross, designed to appeal to different types of drivers. To attract those who are still weighing their options, the brand has introduced another contender—the Urban Cruiser.

However, it’s important to note that this vehicle is targeted at markets beyond Europe. That said, it could certainly resonate well with European consumers, just like many other SUV models have.

The Urban Cruiser revives a name that was previously used for a crossover available in the UK from 2009 to 2012. Although it was considered ahead of its time, it did not achieve popularity back then. A modern iteration would likely boast a design that aligns with current consumer preferences.

Gallery: Toyota Urban Cruiser 2024

Options for Hybrid or Petrol Engines

Focusing on the SUV itself, it has a length of 4.3 meters and is offered with several engine configurations. For instance, in India, it features the familiar 116 PS hybrid engine from the Yaris and Yaris Cross models.

On the other hand, South African consumers can choose a standard petrol option—a 1.5-litre engine delivering 105 PS without any hybrid features, available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

With the automatic variant, the vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 109 mph and offers an average fuel efficiency of 6.1 liters per 100 km, which is about 46.3 mpg in the UK.

However, the specific conditions for this fuel economy figure are not fully disclosed. In South Africa, the starting price for the Urban Cruiser is approximately €16,700 (around £14,000 based on current exchange rates).

This SUV boasts an impressive ground clearance of 21 cm. Inside, it comes equipped with traditional analogue gauges and a compact 7-inch display that controls a multimedia system compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay via wireless connectivity.

Will It Thrive in the Market?

The Toyota Urban Cruiser offers a cargo capacity that ranges from a minimum of 265 liters to a maximum of 373 liters, depending on the engine choice. While these figures might not stand out dramatically considering the vehicle’s size, they still provide functional storage options for everyday use.

How do you perceive the potential of the Urban Cruiser in the UK market? Could it achieve the same level of popularity as the C-HR, or might it fall flat? We invite you to share your thoughts about this vehicle on our social media channels.