The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD Proves It's Not Just a City Slicker
Urban Cruiser AWD by Toyota performs admirably during departures.
Don't be fooled by the name; the Toyota Urban Cruiser is more than just a city car. This stylish compact SUV, available for around €30,000, boasts powerful drivetrains and surprisingly handles off-road excursions with its all-wheel-drive variant.
Toyota partnered with Suzuki to develop this petite powerhouse, sharing the same technical base with its eVitara counterpart. Two front-wheel-drive models are available, producing 106 kW/144 PS and 128 kW/174 PS respectively, while the all-wheel-drive champion rocks 135 kW/184 PS.
The exterior of the Urban Cruiser exudes rugged confidence with its bold front end, smooth LED daytime running lights, and pronounced black plastic underbody protection. Inside, drivers will find a clear interior equipped with essential information displayed in well-structured displays. Despite its off-road appearance, the all-wheel-drive variant is more capable than most will likely ever explore.
The front-wheel-drive models sport a motor at the front axle, each producing 193 Newton meters of torque. The entry-level model sports a battery capacity of 49 kWh, providing up to 344 kilometers on the WLTP cycle with a consumption of 14.9 kWh/100 km. The larger brother with 144 PS and a 61 kWh battery can travel up to 426 kilometers, consuming 15.1 kWh/100 km according to the norm.
Powerful and Agile
The all-wheel-drive model also features the larger battery and an additional electric motor at the rear axle. It generates a significant 307 Newton meters of torque, propelling it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. The Urban Cruiser makes use of lithium-iron-phosphate cells for both battery sizes, which are less energy-dense but cost-effective than standard lithium-ion batteries.
A test drive of the top all-wheel-drive variant revealed a pleasantly quiet, agile, and confident ride in city traffic. In low speeds below 90 km/h, the rear axle assists when the traction of the front wheels is insufficient, extending its range to 395 kilometers. However, its firm suspension and loud wind noise at highway speeds are slightly disappointing.
The interior of the Urban Cruiser is a blend of modern and classic features and boasts a clean, functional design. The car's infotainment system features modern connectivity standards and integrated navigation, while the driver's seats offer both comfort and robustness. The trunk provides 310 liters of space, which can be expanded by sliding the rear bench or folding the rear backrests in a 40:20:40 ratio.
The Urban Cruiser remains a versatile partner, even during off-road adventures. Its all-wheel-drive capabilities allowed it to handle gravel roads, muddy paths, and moderately challenging off-road trails with ease. It may not excel in hardcore, serious off-roading, but it's a reliable companion for those who appreciate casual off-road escapades or live in snow-rich regions.
Source: ntv.de, Martin Westerhoff/sp-x
- Toyota Models
- Electric Vehicles
Note: The electric Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD, available as the "Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder V AWD" in India, is designed for light off-road adventures and varying road conditions. Compared to its petrol counterpart, the upcoming Urban Cruiser EV AWD version will offer enhanced off-road capabilities, featuring hill descent control, Trail Mode, and a more robust drivetrain, allowing it to perform better in more challenging terrains.
Additional Information: Compared to other electric compact SUVs, the Urban Cruiser EV AWD presents competitive off-road features, illustrating Toyota's commitment to developing versatile electric vehicles that cater to a wide range of driving needs.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD is not limited to city driving, showcasing its versatility and capabilities in various road conditions, embodying a lifestyle that combines modern technology with sports-inspired agility. This electric vehicle, with its powerful drivetrains and all-wheel-drive options, is more than just a compact SUV; it's a means to explore diverse terrains, making it a principal means of transport for those seeking adventure beyond the city streets.
