The wait for a fully electric Toyota in India is finally coming to an end. Toyota Kirloskar Motor has officially teased its first-ever Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) for the Indian market—the Urban Cruiser EV.
Set for a January 19 launch, this new SUV is essentially a badge-engineered version of the Maruti e Vitara. However, it carries the Toyota identity that many Indian buyers have been waiting for.
What Does It Look Like?
Visually, the Urban Cruiser EV sticks to its roots. It borrows the same DNA as its Maruti sibling, meaning the design is modern but not overly futuristic or alienating.
- Front Profile: It sports a closed-off grille typical of EVs, along with active air flaps to improve aerodynamics.
- Key Features: You can expect an ADAS module on the windshield, body-colored ORVMs, and stylish 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.
- Overall Vibe: It strikes a balance—not looking dated, but also not trying too hard to look like a spaceship.
Inside the Cabin
Toyota has ensured the interior feels premium and practical. The cabin will feature a dual-tone theme with a focus on driver convenience.
- Screens: A 10.25-inch infotainment system sits in the center, paired with a 10.1-inch instrument cluster for the driver.
- Comfort: It gets a single-pane sunroof, vertical AC vents, and a sporty two-spoke steering wheel.
- Ergonomics: Interestingly, Toyota has retained button-based HVAC controls, which is a great practical touch compared to full-touch dashboards.
Power, Battery & Range
Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the Urban Cruiser EV packs serious capability with two battery options using LFP technology.
|
Battery Pack |
Power Output |
Torque |
Claimed Range |
|
48.8 kWh |
142 bhp |
192.5 Nm |
-- |
|
61.1 kWh |
172 bhp |
192.5 Nm |
Up to 500 km |
Both variants produce the same torque, but the larger 61.1 kWh battery bumps up the horsepower to 172 bhp, making it a strong highway cruiser.
The Competition
The Urban Cruiser EV is entering a battlefield. Upon launch, it will not just compete with its sibling, the Maruti e Vitara, but also take on a long list of rivals including:
- Current Rivals: MG Windsor EV, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6.
- Upcoming Rivals: Hyundai Creta Electric, Vinfast VF 6, Kia Carens Clavis EV.
- Future Entries: New EVs from Volkswagen, Skoda, and Honda.
Conclusion
The January 19 launch is a major milestone for Toyota in India. By bringing in a localized EV with active features like ADAS and a 500 km range, Toyota is making a strong statement. For buyers who trust the brand but wanted an electric option, the Urban Cruiser EV could be the perfect answer.
