Toyota Urban Cruiser EV Maruti e Vitara
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV has finally been revealed, and it’s looking like an exciting addition to Toyota’s lineup of electric vehicles. This production-spec version will make its public debut at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show this January, and I can’t wait to see it up close. If you’ve been following the Maruti eVX-based Urban SUV concept from last year Maruti e Vitara, this is the real deal—a slightly smaller, more refined version that stays true to its roots while being production-ready.
From Concept to Reality
Let’s talk about the design first. The Urban Cruiser EV has borrowed much of its styling from the concept, but naturally, some of the more daring elements have been toned down. The slim grille and headlights are still there, but they’re a bit chunkier now. The front bumper has also been softened, moving away from the sharp, angular design we saw earlier.
From the side, the two-box SUV shape is intact, complete with black plastic cladding to give it that rugged SUV vibe. Toyota’s offering options for either 18-inch or 19-inch aero-optimized wheels, which should give it a sporty stance. One cool feature I’m glad they kept is the rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar—a sleek touch that adds some personality to the design.
Around the back, the changes are subtle but noticeable. The taillights and roof spoiler are slightly elongated compared to the concept, and the rear bumper has a chunkier look. Honestly, the back end looks a lot like its sibling, the Suzuki e Vitara, but that’s not a bad thing. Toyota’s also going all-in with color options, including some trendy dual-tone finishes with contrasting black roofs.
Compact but Spacious
In terms of size, the Urban Cruiser EV has shrunk a bit compared to the concept. It’s 15mm shorter in length (4,285mm) and 20mm narrower (1,800mm), but the height has grown by 20mm to 1,640mm. The wheelbase remains the same at 2,700mm. Fun fact: it’s slightly larger than the Suzuki e Vitara, making it one of the more spacious options in its segment. Toyota claims a tight 5.2-metre turning radius, which should make city driving a breeze.
Power and Performance
Under the hood—or should I say, under the floor—the Urban Cruiser EV shares its platform, battery options, and motors with the e Vitara. There are two battery choices: a 49kWh pack and a 61kWh pack, both using lithium-iron phosphate cells. The smaller battery powers a 144hp, 189Nm motor mounted on the front axle, while the larger pack gets a 174hp motor with the same torque.
If you’re into all-wheel-drive (AWD), Toyota’s got you covered. The AWD version uses the 61kWh battery but adds a 65hp motor on the rear axle, giving it a combined output of 184hp and 300Nm of torque. It also comes with hill-descent control and a ‘Trail Mode’ for those weekend adventures off the beaten path.
Interior and Features
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s almost identical to the e Vitara. There’s a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment. The layout is clean and modern, with a two-spoke steering wheel that feels a bit retro yet futuristic.
Toyota has packed this EV with features. There’s an electronic parking brake with auto hold, multiple drive modes, single-zone automatic climate control, a wireless phone charger, and seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims get goodies like a powered driver’s seat, a JBL sound system, and a sunroof. Rear passengers will love the sliding and reclining seats with a 40:20:40 split-folding option.
On the safety front, the Urban Cruiser EV doesn’t skimp. It comes 6 airbags, a 360-degree camera, and an advanced driver-assistance suite (ADAS) system. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system.
When it is Coming to India?
Now for the big question: when can we get our hands on it? While Toyota hasn’t confirmed the exact launch date for India, it’s expected to arrive in late 2025. The Urban Cruiser EV will be manufactured at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant and will share a lot of components with its Maruti sibling. For now, it’ll make its public debut at the Brussels Motor Show starting January 10, 2025, and prices for the UK market will be revealed by the third quarter of the same year.
So, there you have it—Toyota’s first ‘born-electric’ SUV. With its practical size, impressive feature list, and multiple powertrain options, the Urban Cruiser EV looks set to make waves in the EV market. What do you think? Could this be your next EV?
