Toyota will present one of its most important models in world premiere at the Brussels Motor Show

Tuesday 17th December 2024 12:40 PM

The Urban Cruiser should allow Toyota to significantly increase its volumes in the electric market. ©gael thill

Space and modularity

Still, this name also makes it possible to immediately position the new model: it is indeed an urban SUV 4.28m long, to be classified in the category of Smart #1, Volvo EX30 or even Peugeot e- 2008. It is, in a way, the electric alter-ego of the excellent Toyota Yaris Cross. From the latter, it differs by a slightly longer wheelbase, which benefits rear roominess. The capacity of the trunk has not yet been revealed, but the modularity will be there with a three-part folding bench and sliding rear seats.

The trunk promises to be particularly modular, with a three-part folding bench seat and sliding rear seats. ©gael thill

The dashboard also marks a real novelty for Toyota, with more screens and fewer buttons. Let’s hope that the ergonomics remain neat and practical to use despite everything.

Toyota in turn gives in to the “everything on screen” trend. We’ll see what happens during our first try… ©gael thill

The choice of weapons

The Toyota Urban Cruiser is based on a new platform dedicated to electric vehicles. In this case, it can carry two batteries of 49 or 61 kWh. The first is only offered in 144 hp traction; the second leaves the choice between traction of 174 hp or all-wheel drive and 184 hp. Figures reminiscent of those of the Suzuki e-Vitara which appeared a few weeks ago and for good reason: the two brands are – once again – partners on this model. Neither Toyota nor Suzuki communicate the autonomy for the moment, but the first specifies that the Urban Cruiser will be automatically equipped with a heat pump and manual preheating of the battery, thus avoiding overconsume in winter conditions.

See you on January 10 at the Auto Show to, we hope, find out a little more about its autonomy, its trunk…and its price.