After a long wait, Toyota is finally stepping into India’s mass-market electric SUV segment. The company has released the first teaser of its upcoming all-electric SUV, the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, which will directly compete with the Hyundai Creta Electric.

The Urban Cruiser EV will be Toyota’s first fully electric car for the Indian market and will be based on the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara. This model is part of the long-standing partnership between Toyota and Maruti Suzuki, which has already produced rebadged models like Glanza–Baleno, Rumion–Ertiga, and Fronx–Taisor.

Toyota Urban Cruiser EV: Design Highlights

Going by the teaser, the Toyota Urban Cruiser BEV draws inspiration from the concept showcased by Toyota at last year’s Auto Expo. While it retains the familiar silhouette of the e-Vitara, Toyota has added its own design touches.

The electric SUV features sleek LED headlamps with a distinctive “eyebrow-style” LED DRL design. A piano-black front grille and sculpted bonnet give the car a bold and muscular road presence, clearly differentiating it from its Maruti counterpart.

Expected Interior and Features

Toyota has not revealed the interior yet, but the cabin is expected to closely mirror that of the e-Vitara. The Urban Cruiser EV is likely to get:

• A two-spoke steering wheel

• A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• A 10.1-inch fully digital instrument cluster

In terms of features, the SUV is expected to offer multiple airbags, a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, TPMS, electronic stability control, and other premium safety and convenience features.

Battery, Range and Powertrain

The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is expected to share its battery and motor setup with the e-Vitara. Two battery pack options are likely:

• 49 kWh

• 61 kWh

The larger 61 kWh battery is claimed to deliver a range of up to 543 km on a single charge. Motor options are expected to produce around 144 hp and 174 hp, with power sent to the front wheels.

Competition in the EV SUV Segment

Once launched, the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV will enter a highly competitive segment. Its key rivals will include the Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV, and Tata Curvv EV.