All-new Toyota Urban Cruiser revealed

Toyota has unveiled the Urban Cruiser, a new small electric SUV designed to offer a blend of bold styling, practical features, and cutting-edge technology. Destined to sit beneath the bZ4X and take on rivals like the MINI Aceman and Volvo EX30, here’s everything you need to know about this exciting addition to Toyota's electric lineup.

What is the Toyota Urban Cruiser?

The Urban Cruiser is a compact battery-electric SUV that slots slightly above Toyota’s Yaris Cross hybrid in size. It’s built to appeal to urban drivers who need practicality and efficiency but don’t want to sacrifice style or capability. With its robust ‘Urban Tech’ design, it features Toyota’s ‘hammerhead’ front-end styling – as seen adorning the Toyota Prius – and an imposing stance that sets it apart from the crowd. Fact fans should also note the Urban Cruiser name was last used for a small petrol crossover back in the late 2000s.

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How big is the Urban Cruiser?

It’s larger than the Yaris Cross hybrid and smaller than traditional mid-size SUVs, which should make it ideal for life in the city and the suburbs. The Urban Cruiser measures 4,285mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,640mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,700mm. Its compact dimensions allow for an impressive turning circle of just 5.2 metres, so it should be pretty handy in the supermarket carpark. By comparison, the MINI Aceman is 4,079mm in length, while the Volvo EX30 is 4,233mm, the Kia EV3 is 4,300mm and the Skoda Elroq is 4,488mm.

What’s the interior like?

Inside, the Urban Cruiser offers surprising versatility according to Toyota. Thanks to its long wheelbase, it should provide decent space for passengers and their luggage. A sliding rear seat system lets you adjust the cabin to maximise either legroom or boot space. The seats can recline or split-fold 40:20:40 for added versatility.

Ambient lighting in 12 colours, high-set seating, and premium materials in black and grey create a stylish, comfortable cabin.

What battery sizes and motors will be available?

The Urban Cruiser is available with two battery sizes and both front- and all-wheel-drive options:

• FWD with a 49kWh battery: Producing 142bhp.
• FWD with a 61kWh battery: Boosts power to 172bhp.
• AWD with a 61kWh battery: Offers a more potent 181bhp, plus extra traction for tougher conditions.

All models come equipped with lithium-iron phosphate batteries, known for their durability and cost efficiency. A heat pump and battery pre-heating should ensure the vehicle performs optimally and can charge more quickly, even in cold weather.

What technology does it include?

Toyota has equipped the Urban Cruiser with a comprehensive suite of modern technology, focusing on safety, connectivity, and convenience. Every version of the SUV comes with advanced safety systems including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and a pre-collision system to help avoid accidents. A 360-degree camera is also available, making parking and manoeuvring easier in tight urban spaces.

The digital dashboard combines a 10.25-inch driver display with a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen. This system supports cloud-based satellite navigation for real-time traffic updates, alongside seamless smartphone integration for apps and services. Managing life with an electric vehicle is simplified by Toyota’s MyToyota app, which lets you monitor battery levels, locate charging points, and schedule charging sessions remotely.

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What makes the Urban Cruiser’s building blocks special?

The Urban Cruiser is built on Toyota’s dedicated battery-electric platform, which is said to ensure a lightweight yet strong structure. It features an innovative design that maximises interior space while protecting high-voltage components. AWD models add a rear-axle motor for enhanced grip, along with driving aids like Downhill Assist Control and Trail Mode. This architecture is shared with the upcoming Suzuki e Vitara.

When will the Urban Cruiser be available?

The Urban Cruiser will make its public debut at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show, with UK sales set to begin in the autumn of 2025, so there’s a bit of a wait ahead. Full UK specifications and pricing will be announced closer to its launch.

Why is this launch important for Toyota?

The Urban Cruiser is a key part of Toyota’s electrification strategy. By 2026, the brand aims to offer 15 fully electric vehicles in Europe, helping it move towards a 100% CO2 reduction by 2035 and full carbon neutrality by 2040.

Read our in-depth review of the Toyota bZ4X, or if that’s too large, take a look at our list of the best small electric cars