The Toyota Urban Cruiser will be one of the smallest electric vehicles from the brand.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser is poised to make a significant impact on the European electric SUV market when it launches in late 2025. This all-new EV was fully detailed today alongside the new electric C-HR+ and an updated BZ4X. Unfortunately no firm pricing has been shared but there are indications that it will be a GBP30,000 car, so don’t expect an inexpensive Perodua conversion for Malaysia.
Contemporary “Urban Tech” Design
The Urban Cruiser features a distinctive “hammerhead” frontal design complemented by slim headlight units that align with Toyota’s new generation design language. Its rear profile is equally impressive, with muscular wings and a wrap-around rear light bar that emphasize the vehicle’s strength and stability.
While slightly larger than Toyota’s Yaris Cross hybrid, the Urban Cruiser maintains dimensions that make it ideal for navigating crowded urban environments. Despite its compact exterior, the interior space rivals that of vehicles from a class above, thanks to its generous 2,700mm wheelbase and thoughtful design elements.
Spacious and Versatile Interior
The cabin features an SUV-inspired layout with a low-set, horizontal instrument panel and an elevated driving position that provides excellent visibility. One of the Urban Cruiser’s standout features is its ingenious sliding rear seat system, which allows owners to prioritize either passenger comfort or cargo space depending on their needs.
Adding to the premium feel, the Urban Cruiser offers ambient lighting with 12 different color settings, allowing drivers to customize the interior atmosphere to suit their preferences.
Advanced Electric Powertrain Options
Built on a dedicated EV platform, the Urban Cruiser benefits from a lightweight yet strong structure that maximizes interior space while accommodating the battery without compromises. Toyota will offer a dual battery approach to meet varying customer needs:
- Front-wheel drive with 49 kWh battery: 106 kW (144 DIN hp) with approximately 300 km range
- Front-wheel drive with 61 kWh battery: 128 kW (174 DIN hp) with approximately 400 km range
- All-wheel drive with 61 kWh battery: 135 kW (184 DIN hp) with approximately 350 km range
Both battery options utilize cost-efficient lithium-iron phosphate technology known for its durability. Toyota’s Battery Care Program provides coverage for up to 10 years or one million kilometers, subject to annual battery health checks.
The AWD variant features an additional 48 kW motor on the rear axle and comes equipped with Downhill Assist Control and Trail Mode for enhanced capability in challenging conditions.
Technology and Safety Features
The Urban Cruiser will come standard with advanced safety and driver assistance systems, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert with keep assist functionality.
The fully digital cockpit integrates a 10.25-inch driver’s display and a 10.1-inch multimedia screen into a seamless, modern unit. Smartphone integration is made simple with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Premium options include a 360-degree camera system, JBL sound system, power driver’s seat adjustment, and a fixed sunroof for those seeking additional luxury features.
While the Toyota Urban Cruiser is currently slated only for European markets, its combination of practical range, versatile interior space, and authentic SUV capabilities make it a compelling option for urban dwellers looking to transition to electric mobility.
