Header: Courtesy of Toyota
The new Toyota Urban Cruiser made its first public appearance at the Brussels Motor Show, AutoSalon/Salon de l’Auto 2025, which was open to the public from January 10 to 19 at the Brussels Expo. The latest addition to Toyota’s growing range of battery-electric models is the compact SUV, which will give the brand a strong presence in one of the most competitive and fast-growing segments of the European BEV market. Pre-ordering for the new model has opened in initial markets, with first customer deliveries expected in late summer.
The Urban Cruiser stands out with a powerful “Urban Tech”-influenced design that expresses its quality as an authentic SUV. The frontal styling presents the “hammerhead” look and slim headlight units that are distinguishing elements in a new generation of Toyota models, while the strong rear quarters and a wrap-around rear light bar project SUV-like strength and stability.
In terms of size, the Urban Cruiser’s external dimensions are slightly greater than the Yaris Cross, and a tight 5.2 m turning radius makes for nimble maneuvering on urban streets. Inside, thanks to a long, 2,700 mm wheelbase and a flexible, sliding rear seat arrangement, interior space is remarkably generous: rear seat legroom can be extended to rival that found in a D-segment model. The cabin design bears SUV hallmarks with a low-set, horizontal instrument panel and an elevated seating position that gives a good all-around view from the wheel. The cabin ambiance can be enhanced with a lighting system with 12 different color settings.
Platform and powertrains
The Urban Cruiser is built on a strong yet lightweight new platform dedicated to battery-electric vehicles. Its design avoids the need for crossmembers on the floor, so there is more space for the battery without compromising cabin space.
Customers can choose from powertrain and drivetrain options that best suit their needs. The Urban Cruiser will have two battery pack options, both using durable but cost-efficient lithium-iron phosphate technology. A 49-kWh battery with an output of 106 kW / 144 DIN hp will be offered exclusively with front-wheel drive, while a 61-kWh battery will be available in both front and all-wheel drive Urban Cruiser versions. In FWD format, the 61-kWh battery will produce 128 kW / 174 DIN hp; in the AWD model, the power is slightly greater at 135 kW / 184 DIN hp. The AWD model uses an additional 48 kW motor on the rear axle and is equipped with Downhill Assist Control and Trail and Snow modes for extra assistance in slippery conditions.
Safety and equipment
The Urban Cruiser will be equipped as standard with an extensive suite of advanced active safety and driver assistance features, including pre-collision, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert/keep assist systems. A fully digital user experience includes a 10.25-inch driver’s combimeter and a 10.1-inch multimedia display seamlessly integrated into a sleek, single unit. Easy smartphone integration will be provided for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Premium quality equipment features, including a 360-degree camera, a JBL sound system, and a power driver’s seat adjustment, will be available. Furthermore, a fixed sunroof will be offered, making the journey more interesting for those not driving.
