Toyota made waves in the European automotive scene with its Kenshiki Forum in December 2023. The Japanese automaker used this platform to unveil its current lineup and future vision for the European market, capturing industry-wide attention.
At this event, Toyota presented its current lineup and ambitious vision for the European market. The spotlight was on unveiling two key concept models showcasing Toyota’s new Hammerhead design philosophy. The Urban Cruiser, a compact electric SUV, generated significant buzz due to its innovative design explicitly tailored for European urban living.
Look at the Urban Cruiser, Toyota’s latest European compact EV market offering.
Urban Cruiser’s Compact yet Versatile Design
Built on an all-new EV platform, the Toyota Urban Cruiser boasts a sleek exterior while maintaining a city-friendly footprint. It measures 168.7 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 64.6 inches tall. Inspired by Toyota’s new Hammerhead design language, the vehicle combines futuristic aesthetics with practicality.
Compared to the Yaris Cross, Toyota’s compact SUV in other markets, the Urban Cruiser offers a longer wheelbase (106.3 inches), which enhances interior stability and passenger space. The vehicle features concealed rear door handles, which create a cleaner look and add to the spacious feeling for second-row passengers. Other design highlights include circular taillights, a two-tone color scheme, and bold wheel designs that enhance its visual appeal.
Interior: A Blend of Technology and Practicality
Inside, the Urban Cruiser departs from Toyota’s recent curved designs, embracing a more angular and robust aesthetic. Sharp-edged door panels, from the steering wheel to the rectangular air vents, contribute to a modern and functional interior.
A 10.1-inch infotainment display pairs with a crisp digital instrument cluster, providing seamless connectivity. An optional JBL sound system offers audiophiles an elevated audio experience for enhanced in-car entertainment.
Toyota has also focused on rear-seat versatility, with a 40:20:40 split-folding second-row bench. The sliding and reclining capabilities allow passengers to personalize their space for optimal comfort. Clever packaging ensures that the Urban Cruiser offers ample interior space despite its compact exterior, making it a perfect fit for European urban lifestyles.
Ensuring Practical Driving Performance
The Toyota Urban Cruiser will debut at the European Motor Show in Brussels in 2025, and it has already garnered attention for its powertrain options. Designed to cater to the growing European compact electric vehicle market, the Urban Cruiser will offer two single-motor, front-wheel-drive configurations and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant. These configurations are designed to provide everyday urban mobility and an enhanced driving experience with superior performance.
The front-wheel-drive variants feature 106 kW and 128 kW electric motors, delivering 144 horsepower and 174 horsepower, respectively. Both configurations produce 19.2 kg.m of torque, making them ideal for practical city driving. The vehicles will be equipped with LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, offering capacities of 49 and 61 kWh to meet varying range and performance needs.
The AWD system ensures improved stability for everyday driving and additional capability in more challenging conditions. It features downhill assist control and selectable drive modes, including a snow setting.
Convenience and Safety Features: Enhanced Visibility and Driver Assistance
The Urban Cruiser has an impressive array of convenience and safety features, including a 360-degree camera system for improved visibility. Toyota’s advanced driver assistance systems include collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, all of which contribute to a safer, more convenient driving experience.
Toyota offers Toyota HomeCharge, the first domestic wallbox charge point designed exclusively for Toyota electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This box allows for convenient home charging. A dedicated smartphone app lets owners monitor vehicle status and manage charging remotely, providing added convenience for those on the go.
Sustainability Commitment: Toyota’s Green Future
The Urban Cruiser plays a key role in Toyota’s sustainability goals. The automaker aims for carbon neutrality by 2040 and eliminating CO2 emissions from its European operations by 2035. As part of its commitment to a greener future, Toyota plans to introduce six new electric vehicles and 15 electrified models by 2026, further cementing its position as a leader in the electric mobility space.
