Ready for the Terrain: The All-wheeled Electric Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD
Toyota's Urban Cruiser AWD Demonstrates Impressive Performance When Leaving Destinations.
No city limit for this electric SUV! The Toyota Urban Cruiser, a joint development with Suzuki, introduces itself as a compact powerhouse, ready to take on the bustling city and the wilderness. This off-road capable SUV is available in two front-wheel drive versions with outputs of 106 kW (144 PS) and 128 kW (174 PS) respectively. The top variant features an all-wheel drive setup, packing a punch with 135 kW (184 PS). The electric SUV will set you back around €30,000 when it hits the market in the latter half of the year.
The bold and robust design of the Urban Cruiser is undeniably striking, flaunting a muscular front end, sharp LED daytime running lights, and tough-looking black plastic underbody shielding. Stepping inside reveals a blockbuster combination of classic switches and a modern cockpit with a touch screen, providing a clear view of all necessary information. The rear-wheel excursion may seem excessive for an urban dweller, but the all-wheel drive variant truly proves its mettle when treading off-road.
The front-wheel drive models arm themselves with a motor at the front axle, delivering 193 Newton meters of torque each. The entry-level version sports a 49 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 344 km according to the WLTP cycle, while consuming 14.9 kWh/100 km. The higher-powered variant with 144 PS features a 61 kWh battery, boasting a range of up to 426 km with a consumption of 15.1 kWh/100 km. The all-wheel drive top variant benefits from the larger battery and an additional motor at the rear axle, cranking up the torque to 307 Newton meters. This high-powered configuration accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 7.4 seconds.
Quiet, agile, and confident, this little cruiser whizzes through city traffic effortlessly. The all-wheel drive system kicks in only at low speeds below 90 km/h to provide essential traction, enabling a maximum range of 395 km. Its firm suspension and wind noise at high speeds might not strike a perfect chord with drivers.
The interior takes no prisoners, showcasing clean lines, a rational design, and modern connectivity, bundled with classic switches and touch controls. The driver's seats revel in comfort, while the trunk space matches its peers in the segment. However, Toyota's clever design allows for added legroom for passengers and a flexible cargo configuration by adjusting the rear bench and rear backrests in a 40:20:40 ratio.
Whether you're adventuring through the backcountry or cruising towards the city heart, the Urban Cruiser AWD with all-wheel drive makes for a fantastic exploration partner, easily handling off-road tracks with gravel and deep ruts. Homeowners in snow-rich areas or eco-conscious foresters might want to cast their eyes on this electric compact SUV for its capable winter performance. Just be ready to dish out at least €42,990 in Germany for the top-tier "Lounge" edition.
Other Toyota Models
- Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Yaris Cross
Electric Vehicles
- Nissan Leaf
- Hyundai Kona Electric
Enrichment Data
Off-Road Capability and Performance of the Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD Electric Model
Overview of the Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD
The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD electric model capitalizes on its dual-motor setup, offering combined outputs of 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque. This model boasts features like Trail Mode and Downhill Assist Control, designed to improve traction and stability on difficult terrain, all while providing a capable off-road experience.[3][5]
Off-Road Features
- Dual-Motor System: The AWD variant equips a 48 kW motor on the rear axle, enhancing both traction and stability on challenging terrain.[5]
- Trail Mode: This mode automatically detects and mitigates wheel spin by transferring torque to the opposite wheel, ensuring stability on uneven terrain.[5]
- Downhill Assist Control: This feature provides stability on steep descents by regulating speed and maintaining control.[5]
Performance Comparison with Other B-Segment Electric SUVs
Comparison Points:
| Model | Power | Torque | Range | 0-62mph Time ||-------|-------|--------|-------|--------------|| Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD | 184 PS | 300 Nm | Up to 265 miles | 7.4 seconds (similar spec non-electric variant)[1] || Ford Puma Gen-E | 154 PS (base) | - | Up to 243 miles | Not specified for base model || Kia EV3 Standard Range | 154 PS (base) | - | Up to 243 miles (base) | Not specified for base model || Jeep Avenger Electric | 156 PS (base) | - | Up to 249 miles | Not specified for base model |
Key Differences
- Power and Torque: The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD offers a power and torque advantage compared to base models of competitors like Ford Puma Gen-E and Kia EV3 Standard Range.[2][3]
- AWD Capability: While other models may provide AWD, the Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD's off-road features like Trail Mode and Downhill Assist Control differentiate it for off-road enthusiasts.[5]
- Range and Performance: The Urban Cruiser's range competes well with other B-segment electric SUVs, although its performance on motorways might lag behind some competitors.[2][3]
The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD serves as a versatile choice for urban dwellers with an adventurous lifestyle, showcasing its potential in both city driving and off-road exploration. Financing this technology-laden SUV, with its striking design and sports-inspired attributes, could be considered an investment that benefits your finance and lifestyle dynamics. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a homeowner in snowy regions, or an eco-conscious individual who enjoys forest expeditions, this all-wheel drive electric SUV seamlessly fits into a variety of lifestyles.
