The introduction of the all-new Urban Cruiser is the latest step in the expansion of Toyota’s battery electric vehicle range to cover all key segments of the European electric SUV market. It follows the recent launch of the new, significantly revised bZ4X and precedes the arrival in 2026 of the all-new Toyota C-HR+, bZ4X Touring, and Hilux BEV.

Supporting Toyota’s multipath philosophy, the all-electric Urban Cruiser joins the self-charging hybrid Yaris Cross to give B-SUV customers a choice of zero and low emission powertrains, with options to best meet their mobility needs while also helping achieve meaningful reductions in CO₂ emissions towards ultimate carbon neutrality.

Going further, Urban Cruiser is available with two battery options, offering different levels of performance and driving range.

The model is launched in three versions: a front-wheel drive model with a 49 kWh battery and front and all-wheel drive versions with a 61 kWh battery.  The driving range (WLTP combined data) is up to 344 km for the FWD model with the 49 kWh battery; 426 km for the FWD version with the 61 kWh battery; and 395 km for the AWD model.

The batteries feature lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which provides enhanced durability and cost advantages. A thermal management system helps ensure optimum battery temperature is maintained, including in very cold and hot conditions. The batteries’ lasting quality is supported by the Toyota Battery Care Programme, which guarantees a minimum 70% of the unit’s original capacity is maintained over 10 years or 1,000,000 km of driving (subject to an annual battery health check).

The Urban Cruiser is an authentic SUV, from its robust design to its all-wheel driving capabilities. The electric AWD system, using an additional motor on the rear axle, delivers secure, confidence-inspiring performance on loose surfaces and slippery roads.

Creating an open and spacious interior was a priority in Urban Cruiser’s development. Cabin and load compartment space has been maximised through clever design and intelligent packaging of the EV powertrain components. With the benefit of a 2,700 mm wheelbase, the interior is open, spacious and versatile, with a sliding and split-folding rear system that allows passenger or luggage space to be adapted with ease, rivalling the load-carrying capabilities of larger SUVs.

Information and multimedia functions are easy to access with an instrument combimeter and a multimedia display that are integrated into a single unit. On-board connectivity is supported by front and rear USB ports and wireless smartphone integration. Control goes beyond the car itself with the MyToyota app enabling owners to operate vehicle functions and monitor data remotely, such as scheduling battery charging, checking the battery’s state of charge and activating the air conditioning system before making a journey.

CHASSIS: CONSTRUCTED ON A DEDICATED BEV PLATFORM

• New, dedicated BEV platform, designed with interior space and driving range as priorities
• Exceptional rigidity and a low centre of gravity are achieved through structural battery integration
• Detailed measures to optimise aerodynamic performance and suppress noise and vibration

The Urban Cruiser is constructed on a dedicated new BEV platform, developed with cabin space and optimum driving range as priorities.

The principal underfloor section dispenses with cross-members to accommodate the battery pack. The battery is protected from collision damage by an outer frame and energy-absorbing side mounts. The rear floor also provides impact protection and is designed so that only minor modifications were required to accommodate the additional rear eAxle in the all-wheel drive model.

Strength and body rigidity are high, with high-tensile steels used in key areas, with the added benefit of weight-saving. Locating the battery beneath the vehicle’s floor helps secure a low centre of gravity, which promotes stable handling and an agile driving character.

Fine-tuned aerodynamics helps reduce power consumption and maximise the car’s driving range. Features include aero covers that extend across the entire underfloor area, including the front and rear sections. The battery pack’s flat, low-profile design helps smooth the flow of air beneath the car.

Detailed measures help control noise and vibration that are potentially more noticeable in the absence of a conventional engine sound. Road noise is suppressed by the battery pack, which forms a structural member in the car, while driving and wind noise are reduced through the use of sound-insulating baffles around the vehicle and sound-insulating windscreen glass. Front eAxle mounts and a rear eAxle undercover also suppress unwelcome noise and vibration.

ALL-NEW BATTERY ELECTRIC POWERTRAIN

• Two battery capacity options – 49 and 61 kWh
• Driving range of up to 426 km
• 10-80% battery DC fast recharging in around 45 minutes
• Peace of mind of Toyota’s battery guarantee of 70% of original capacity maintained up to 1,000,000 kilometres  driven/10 years*

The Urban Cruiser introduces an all-new battery electric powertrain with two battery pack options and a choice of front or all-wheel drive. Both batteries use lithium-iron phosphate technology, which has the benefits of durability, safety and reduced cost. With both units, the car offers prompt, linear acceleration, from start-off and at overtaking speeds.

The car is driven by a compact and efficient eAxle. This incorporates an electric motor, inverter and reduction gears in a single space-saving unit. Clever design, including a small-diameter motor and a long shaft, has kept the unit small without sacrificing power and avoiding intrusion in the cabin space or, in the case of the AWD model, the load compartment.

A 49 kWh battery is available exclusive in the FWD model. Containing 96 cells, it has an output of 106 kW / 144 DIN hp and produces a maximum 193 Nm of torque. The driving range (WLTP combined) is up to 344 km.

Extending customer choice, Toyota also offers a 61 kWh, 120-cell battery. In the FWD powertrain this produces 128 kW / 174 DIN hp and 193 Nm. The driving range is up to 426 km.

In the AWD model, the system delivers more power and torque: 135 kW / 184 DIN hp and 193/114 Nm, enabling a driving range of up to 395 km.

All Urban Cruiser models can tow braked loads of up to 750 kg.

A number of measures are deployed to maximise the car’s potential driving range, including a thermal management system that co-ordinates battery temperature control with the air conditioning control system to help stabilise performance in hot or cold weather, or in high-load driving conditions (e.g. extended high-speed cruising and repeated rapid battery charging). In winter conditions, the system helps optimise battery temperature; in hot weather, the liquid refrigerant in the air conditioning is used to cool the battery.

Further measures include an automatic front grille shutter to optimise airflow and an energy-efficient heat pump integrated into the heating and ventilation system (fitted as standard). Using seat heaters and a heated steering wheel (where provided) also supports efficient use of power.

Battery charging

When using DC charging, recharging the battery from 10% to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes. Charging from 15% to 100% with a 3-phase 11 kW AC power supply should take around six hours, while single-phase 7kW AC charging is expected to achieve the same in about 9.5 hours.

The system includes a “My Room” charging mode that allows driver to use the air conditioning and audio system while sitting in their vehicle while charging is in progress.

Energy efficiency and battery pre-conditioning

To enhance the Urban Cruiser’s energy efficiency and optimise its driving range, the vehicle is equipped as standard with an air conditioning system featuring a heat pump.

Additionally, the driver may initiate battery pre-conditioning prior to charging, either manually within the vehicle or via the MyToyota app. This process optimizes the battery temperature, ensuring that charging is conducted as efficiently and quick as possible.

Peace of mind guarantee*

In common with all new Toyota battery electric vehicles, the new Urban Cruiser promises long lasting battery quality, durability and reliability. Toyota’s Battery Care Program covers battery performance each year for up to 10 years of vehicle age or up to one million kilometres driven, contingent on an annual battery health check.

*Toyota’s confidence in the quality of the battery is reflected in a guarantee it will retain at least 70% of its capacity up to 10 years of vehicle age, covered by the original EV Manufacturing Warranty until 8 years of vehicle age or 160,000 kilometres, and with the Battery Care Program up to 10 years of vehicle age or 1 million kilometres driven that is activated by an annual EV health check (terms and conditions and local country conditions apply).

SELECTABLE DRIVE MODES FOR DIFFERENT DRIVING CONDITIONS

• Choice of Eco, Normal, Sport and Pedal drive modes on all versions; additional Snow mode for the FWD models
• Easy operation using shift-by-wire controller
• Pedal mode offers three deceleration levels for one-pedal control of vehicle speed

The Urban Cruiser has up to four drive modes which the driver can select as required using button switches on the centre console.

Eco mode extends the car’s potential driving range with regulation of the air conditioning system’s power usage and moderating accelerator response to the driver’s use of the pedal.

Normal mode provides prompt power delivery for everyday driving, while Sport mode sharpens the throttle response for a more agile driving experience.

The Snow mode on the front-wheel drive model controls drive torque to help reduce wheel-slip when driving on snow-covered roads.

The driver also has the option of using a Pedal mode for driving with minimal use of the brake pedal. It provides three selectable levels of deceleration when the driver comes off the throttle, allowing vehicle speed to be controlled using just the accelerator pedal. This has the added benefit of operating in a similar fashion to a regenerative braking system, capturing energy generated during deceleration that is then converted into electricity.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE OPTION: TRUE TO URBAN CRUISER’S SUV DNA

• All-wheel drive option faithful to Urban Cruiser’s authentic SUV character
• AWD version adopts additional 48 kW rear motor
• Selectable Auto and Trail drive modes for safe and secure progress in slippery conditions and over uneven surfaces

The availability of an all-wheel drive system affirms the Urban Cruiser’s status as an authentic SUV.

The addition of a 48 kW motor to the rear axle delivers stable and secure performance on loose and slippery surfaces, giving the driver peace of mind when tackling difficult conditions and a more rewarding driving experience.

The electric motors provide quick response to assist acceleration, with precise control of the drive torque distribution between the front and rear axles. On slippery surfaces, the level of torque is automatically adjusted when any degree of wheel-slip is detected.

The AWD system operates in two selectable modes: Auto and Trail. In Auto mode, control is automatically adjusted in line with the road conditions. In Trail mode, a limited-slip differential provides braking on any wheel that loses traction, while directing drive torque to the opposite wheel to gain safer, secure progress.

The system also provides Hill Hold Control and Hill Descent Control for easier progress on gradients, and Active Cornering Control, which improves cornering performance by braking the inside wheels to counter any understeer experienced when accelerating through a bend.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES: COMFORT, STABILITY AND CONTROL

• Suspension engineered for comfort, stability and responsiveness
• MacPherson strut front arrangement and rear multi-link system
• Ventilated disc brakes all round and electronic parking brake

The Urban Cruiser’s suspension is designed and tuned for comfort, stability, responsive steering performance and low noise and vibration. A MacPherson strut arrangement is used at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. High-rigidity components in the rear set-up help maintain good tyre contact with the road and improve ride comfort when travelling over uneven ground.

All four wheels are equipped with 18-inch ventilated disc brakes; those at the front have two-piston callipers. An electric parking brake is provided as standard, with a convenient brake hold function.

IMPACTFUL SUV DESIGN

• Powerful exterior styling broadcasts Urban Cruiser’s SUV character
• “Urban Tech” design theme
• Signature Toyota “hammerhead” frontal look
• Tight turning circle contributes to easy urban driving

The Urban Cruiser’s exterior design broadcasts its authentic SUV quality. Developed on the theme “Urban Tech”, its sophisticated, mature styling generates a bold appearance from every angle.

Its SUV character is evident in the strong lower body treatment and robust sill and wheel arch mouldings and lower bumper sections.

The hammerhead front end is a contemporary Toyota design cue, accentuated here by a slim margin line around its leading edge. The visual effect is enhanced by slim headlight units with light guides for the horizontal LED daytime running lights and turn indicators, and a U-shaped garnish around a bi-LED that projects both headlight high and low beams. A strongly defined lower bumper with a gloss black finish accentuates the car’s wide stance.

At the rear, a powerfully designed rear lighting unit spans the width of the back door and wraps around into the car’s muscular haunches. LED lights are arranged in parallel lines to create a distinctive illumination signature.

The car’s overall dimensions are slightly greater than Toyota’s full hybrid B-SUV, the Yaris Cross.

Although the Urban Cruiser has a longer wheelbase, its turning radius (tyre) is just 5.2 m, making for easy manoeuvring in urban streets and tight parking spaces.

INTERIOR DESIGN: SPACIOUS AND VERSATILE

• Long wheelbase key to a spacious cabin
• SUV character reflected in commanding driving position with excellent all-round visibility
• Sliding rear seat system allows for increased room for rear seat passengers or load space as required
• Load capacity extends to a maximum 566 litres with seats fully folded

The Urban Cruiser benefits from a wheelbase that is long for a model in is class, at 2,700 mm and key to delivering a spacious and versatile interior. A low-set instrument panel with strong horizontal lines and a soft-touch finish amplifies the sense of space and openness.

The car’s authentic SUV character is reflected in a high driving position, with excellent all-round visibility, for driver and passengers alike.

The centre console design places key controls within close reach so operation does not impact on the driver’s focus on the road ahead.  They include a dial-type shift selector, electronic parking brake switch and, where fitted, AWD mode switches. Cup holders and, on High grade, a wireless smartphone charger is integrated in the design, which forms a bridge over a handy open storage tray. This lower section of the console also houses a power outlet and USB-A and USB-C ports for device connection and charging.

The rationalised design incorporates some controls in the multimedia touchscreen in place of physical switches, such as those for the seat heaters. The air conditioning system can be operated using switches or the screen.

The cabin has a smart black and grey finish with either fabric upholstery (Mid-grade) or a combination of fabric with high-quality animal-free material (High grade). The cabin atmosphere can be tailored to suit the journey or the driver’s mood with an ambient lighting system that offers a choice of 12 different colour settings and seven brightness levels, highlighting the door panels and console tray.

Thanks to a sliding rear seat system, the couple distance between the front and rear passengers can be adjusted in a range from 690 to 850 mm – the latter figure rivalling that found in much larger SUVs. The rear seats split-fold 40:20:40 and can also be reclined. The overall interior length is 3,050 mm.

The designed-in flexibility allows the interior to be easily adapted for extra passenger comfort or extended load space, according to need. The load compartment measures 675 mm deep, 1,020 mm wide and 659 mm high. With the rear seats folded, the depth extends to 1,455 mm.

When the rear seats are in their furthest forward position, there are 310 litres of luggage space, loading to the roof. Move the seats to their rearmost position and the volume is 244 litres. Maximum capacity, with the seats fully folded, is 566 litres.

Convenient features for rear seat passengers include two USB ports in the rear console for device charging, a smartphone tray and folding centre armrest.

High grade models come equipped as standard with a Cold Pack, which brings together a range of features designed for on-board comfort and improved visibility. These include heated door mirrors and an L-shaped windscreen de-icer on the exterior. Inside the vehicle, occupants benefit from heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and extra ducting to channel warm air to the rear of the cabin.

FULLY DIGITAL USER EXPERIENCE

• Seamless integration of 10.25-inch driver’s digital combimeter and 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen
• Both displays customisable to suit driver preferences
• Wireless smartphone integration and charger
• Access to remote and connected services via the MyToyota app

Clarity, ease of use and personalisation are the key qualities in a digital user experience across the Urban Cruiser’s instrumentation and multimedia functions.

The instrument panel seamlessly integrates a 10.25-inch combimeter and 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen display into a single unit. Both displays can be customised to suit the driver’s priories for information and preferences for layout and readability.

The multimedia system provides intuitive operation and prompt response. It offers both an embedded navigation system and access to efficient cloud-based route planning that is able to factor in the latest traffic flow information.

Smartphones can be wirelessly integrated with the vehicle via both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. High grade models provide a wireless device charger as standard.

Customers can also monitor and manage their car’s performance and functions remotely using the MyToyota app. Features include management of the battery’s charging schedule and checks on its state of charge. It also provides convenience functions such as door locking and unlocking and operation of the air conditioning to warm or cool the cabin before making a journey.

SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE

• Standard provision of extensive active safety and driving assistance features, beyond what might be expected in a B-SUV
• Brake Support System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition provided on all Urban Cruiser models
• Easier, safer manoeuvring with a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Monitor
• Robust construction designed to protect high-voltage components in a collision

Driving is made easier and safer with a comprehensive array of technically advanced active safety and driver assistance features. The provisions go beyond what might typically be expected of a B-segment model.

All Urban Cruiser versions are equipped with a Brake Support System. Its capabilities include recognising imminent collision risks, with other vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians. It will first alert the driver to take action and, if necessary, initiate braking to help avoid or mitigate the consequences of an impact. If a collision does happen and an airbag is inflated, multiple collision braking is activated to help prevent a secondary impact.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Keep Assist is also standard features and help ease the burden of driving by keeping the car at a selected speed and safe distance from vehicles ahead, with smooth braking and acceleration in line with the traffic flow. Lane Departure Prevention helps keep the car safely within its driving lane and Traffic Sign Recognition provide useful visual confirmation of speed limits and principal traffic warnings and commands in the driver’s instrument combimeter.

A Driving Monitor Systems constantly monitors the driver’s face and will recognise signs of them becoming tired, distracted or falling asleep. If it detects an issue, it will sound a warning and display a message recommending the driver takes a break or keeps their eyes on the road.

On the High grade Urban Cruiser, the LED headlights use an Adaptive High-beam System that automatically adapts forward illumination to maximise the driver’s view without dazzling oncoming traffic.

Safer driving and manoeuvring are supported by front and rear parking sensors and a Rear Cross Traffic Alert system. This warns of vehicles approaching from either side when the driver reverses out of a parking space or driveway. The specification also includes a Blind Spot Monitor, warning the driver of vehicles passing on either side that might not be visible in the door and rear-view mirrors.

High grade models further benefit from a 360-degree camera system. This uses four cameras around the car to provide a complete view of its surroundings, making it easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces or drive safely over rough, uneven surfaces.

In the event of a collision, the Urban Cruiser’s construction provides robust protection both for occupants and the high-voltage powertrain components. Energy-absorbing front and rear members and upper and lower load paths create an impact buffer zone in a frontal or rear-end collision. In a side-on impact, energy-absorbing mounts help protect the battery.

Scheduled for European launch in late 2025, the Urban Cruiser adopts Toyota’s dual battery offer for its fully electric models, helping customers find the right vehicle for their mobility needs and their budget.

It presents a contemporary “Urban Tech” look that expresses genuine SUV quality. The “hammerhead” frontal design and slim headlight units are features shared by the new generation of Toyota models. At the rear, the muscular wings and wrap-around rear light bar emphasise strength and stability.

Exterior dimensions – slightly larger than the Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid – ensure this is a car well-suited to negotiating urban spaces. Inside, the space rivals that of models from a class above, thanks to a 2,700 mm wheelbase and clever design features. More room for rear seat passengers – or load space – can be obtained with an ingenious sliding rear seat system.

The SUV-inspired layout includes a low-set, horizontal instrument panel and an elevated seating position at the wheel. Ambient lighting with 12 colour settings helps set the mood for the journey.

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 in the floor, so there is more space for the battery without compromising cabin space.

The battery options will provide driving range capability that will easily meet typical day-to-day journey requirements. The target distance for the FWD model with the 49 kWh battery is around 300 km; with the larger, 61 kWh battery the figure is 400 km. Those choosing the 61 kWh version with all-wheel drive can expect in the region of 350 km on a full charge. Both batteries use durable but cost-efficient lithium-iron phosphate technology. Toyota offers a Battery Care Program covering the battery each year for up to 10 years of vehicle age or up to one million kilometres driven, subject to an annual battery health check*

The AWD model uses an additional 48 kW motor on the rear axle and is equipped with Downhill Assist Control and a Trail Mode for extra assistance in slippery conditions.

Safety and equipment

The Urban Cruiser will be equipped as standard with a complement 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 both Apple CarPlay and Android auto systems.

Premium quality equipment features will be available, including a 360-degree camera, JBL sound system and power driver’s seat adjustment. A fixed sunroof will also be offered.

*Toyota’s confidence in the quality of the battery is reflected in a guarantee it will retain at least 70% of its capacity up to 10 years of vehicle age, covered by the original EV Manufacturing Warranty until 8 years of vehicle age or 160.000 kilometres, and with the Battery Care Program up to 10 years of vehicle age or 1 million kilometres driven that is activated by an annual EV Health Check (T&C and country conditions apply).

By the end of 2025, Toyota will have all-new and enhanced products competing at the heart of the key B, C and D-SUV segments, the principal categories of the European automotive market. All benefit from core Toyota BEV DNA qualities: genuine SUV character and practicality; distinctive contemporary design; energy-efficient performance; and the availability of true all-wheel drive performance.

Quality, Durability and Reliability are the hallmarks of all Toyota products, BEVs included. There is perhaps no better illustration of this than the Battery Care Program covering the battery each year for up to 10 years of vehicle age or up to one million kilometres driven, subject to an annual battery health check**.

The new Toyota bZ4X

The bZ4X was the first battery-electric model to be developed based on the Toyota New Global Architecture philosophy dedicated to BEVs, eTNGA. It is a D-segment car that stands out in its class for offering authentic SUV performance as well as styling, with optional XMODE all-wheel drive. Having first been introduced in 2022, the bZ4X will undergo significant visual and technical enhancements in 2025. The new model will offer customers the choice of two lithium-ion battery packs with different power capacities (57.7 and 73.1 kWh gross capacity) and new stronger electric motors with output of up to 343 DIN hp / 252 kW. A new (optional) 22 kW onboard-charger, a battery pre-conditioning function for faster charging and software updates to provide intelligent BEV-focused route planning, will also be delivered.

All-new Urban Cruiser

The Urban Cruiser is an all-new compact SUV developed from the Urban SUV Concept presented in 2023. It stands out in its class with powerful styling that gives it a strong road presence. While its compact exterior dimensions give it urban-friendly manoeuvrability, the cabin maximises passenger space with a slide-adjustable rear seat system. This allows for a generous leg room to rival larger competitors. Customers have two battery pack options (49 and 61 kWh gross capacity), both using lithium-iron phosphate technology that has the benefit of durability, safety and reduced cost, and the choice of front or all-wheel drive.

All-new Toyota C-HR+

The all-new Toyota C-HR+ has been developed from the Compact SUV concept presented in 2022. It is an all-new, all-electric C-segment SUV, set to compete in the most important part of the BEV market.

It is infused with the qualities that have made the Toyota C-HR such a popular success – more than one million units have been sold since its introduction in 2016 – but is a model in its own right. While the styling draws on the coupe lines that have distinguished the Toyota C-HR, the body is unique to the BEV with a more mature and sophisticated feeling. Inside, passenger space is on a par with higher class models and there is 416 litre of load space.

The electric powertrain technology is shared with the new bZ4X, including the option of two different battery capacities (57.7 and 77 kWh gross capacity) and drivetrains with power output between 167 and 343 DIN hp. However, the vehicle’s style and dynamic performance are very different, designed to appeal to a different type of customer. All-wheel drive can be specified for extra grip and rewarding control of the high power that is characteristic of an electric powertrain.

2026 and beyond

Toyota will continue to grow its BEV range and deliver on its ambition to reveal 6 new BEV models by the end of 2026. Following the example set by the new Urban Cruiser and Toyota C-HR+, these will adopt a traditional naming strategy to make them familiar and instantly recognisable to customers.

In parallel, Toyota will look to introduce the technology in other vehicle types. An example of its breadth of ambition is the Land Cruiser Se concept, revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. This explores how a BEV powertrain might be applied to the most iconic model in the Toyota range.

Further into the future, Toyota will roll out next generation BEV technologies, including the advanced batteries previewed in 2023. These include units tailored for low-cost, performance and high performance, together with the launch of the first Toyota solid state batteries with the potential to transform EV performance.

The latest addition to Toyota’s growing range of battery electric models is a compact SUV that 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 from 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 manoeuvring 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 leg room 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-round view from the wheel. The cabin ambience can be enhanced with a lighting system that offers 12 different colour 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 in 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 be available with two battery pack options, both of which use 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, as well as Trail and Snow modes for extra assistance in slippery conditions.

 Safety and equipment

The Urban Cruiser will be equipped as standard with a 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 both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems.

 Premium quality equipment features will be available, including a 360-degree camera, JBL sound system and power driver’s seat adjustment. A fixed sunroof will also be offered.

*NB: all performance data remains provisional.

New BEV platform 

The car is constructed on a new platform dedicated to battery electric vehicles. It is strong yet lightweight and provides a spacious interior with built-in protection for the car’s high-voltage parts. The structure’s design avoids the need for crossmembers in the floor, freeing up more space to accommodate the battery. 

Secure performance with all-wheel drive 

One of the key qualities of the new Urban Cruiser is the availability of an all-wheel drive system, affirming its status as an authentic SUV. 

The addition of a 48 kW motor to the rear axle gives stable and secure performance on loose and slippery surfaces, giving both peace of mind in difficult conditions and a more rewarding driving experience. 

The system also provides Downhill Assist Control and a Trail Mode which detects and brakes a spinning wheel while directing drive torque to the opposite wheel. The front-wheel drive model benefits from a “snow mode” which controls drive torque to help reduce wheel-slip when driving on snow-covered roads. 

Technology-led specifications 

Equipment specifications deliver the latest technologies for safety, information and connectivity. 

All Urban Cruiser versions will benefit from a comprehensive package of active safety and driver assistance systems, helping recognise and avoid a wide range of common accident risks. Features include a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert and lane keep assist. A 360-degree camera system gives the driver a complete view of the car’s surroundings when manoeuvring across rough ground or parking in tight spaces. 

The instrument panel seamlessly integrates the driver’s 10.25-inch digital combimeter and 10.1-inch multimedia display into a single unit. The multimedia system is designed for fast, intuitive operation with satellite navigation that uses cloud-based data to factor in the latest traffic flow intelligence. Smartphone integration is also provided so the driver can access their preferred apps and services with ease. 

Technology is also at hand to help with the day-to-day management of running an electric vehicle. The Toyota HomeCharge domestic wallbox provides a recharging facility that is designed for seamless operation with Toyota models. Further convenience is provided by the MyToyota app, which owners can use to check the state of their vehicle’s battery charge, locate convenient charging stations and schedule and monitor charging sessions. 

Other features available, according to model grade, include power driver’s seat adjustment, a JBL premium audio system and a fixed sunroof.