Toyota urban cruiser awd electric review: a promising start but compromises
Toyota urban cruiser awd electric review: a promising start but compromises
I'm Elizabeth Jones, and today I'm diving into a thorough review of the new Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD electric SUV. After a firsthand experience in the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, I'm ready to share my thoughts on whether this vehicle lives up to the hype. Toyota is making a bold move in the electric B-segment, partnering with Suzuki to create a technically similar model to the Suzuki e-Vitara. Let's explore its strengths and weaknesses.
Design and first impressions
The Urban Cruiser immediately stands out with its robust design. The bold front fascia, complete with LED daytime running lights and black plastic cladding, gives it a solid and somewhat assertive presence. It comfortably navigates the urban landscape, fitting in between smaller cars and scooters. It's a departure from some of Toyota's past offerings, hinting at a more modern and adventurous direction. The overall design is a positive step, differentiating itself from the crowded SUV market.
Interior and comfort
Stepping inside, the Urban Cruiser offers a welcome blend of modern technology and classic usability. Unlike some vehicles overloaded with touchscreens, it retains physical buttons for essential functions like heating. The cabin is well-organized, with solid materials (though predominantly hard plastic – typical for this segment). The slightly elevated driving position provides good visibility, a key feature for SUV buyers.
- Physical buttons for climate control
- Organized dashboard layout
- Solid, if basic, materials
Performance and handling
The AWD model delivers a punchy acceleration, going from 0 to 100 km/h in a respectable 7.4 seconds. The instant torque of 307 Nm is typical of electric vehicles, making overtaking effortless. However, the firm suspension translates to a less than comfortable ride, especially on uneven roads. The steering lacks feedback, hindering any sporty aspirations. While it performs well on smooth surfaces, the ride quality needs improvement for everyday driving.
Off-road capabilities: a letdown
Toyota touted the AWD system as a key selling point, but its off-road performance is disappointing. While the electronic distribution of power is effective, the stiff suspension makes it prone to jarring impacts. The ride height is also relatively low for an SUV, limiting its capability on anything beyond well-maintained gravel roads. The LFP battery chemistry, while cost-effective, doesn't contribute to a more compliant suspension.
Range and charging
The Urban Cruiser boasts a 60 kWh net battery capacity, promising 395 kilometers of range. However, real-world testing revealed a consumption of 26 kWh/100km, leading to an estimated range of around 230 km. This is significantly lower than advertised and more akin to a larger, premium SUV. Charging speeds are also a concern, with a 67 kW DC fast charge taking 45 minutes to reach 80%. This is slower than many competitors, making longer journeys require significant charging stops.
Practicality and space
The Urban Cruiser excels in practicality. The 310-liter trunk is average for its class, but the rear seats offer a remarkable 16 cm of longitudinal sliding. This feature, allowing for flexible space allocation, is a welcome addition. The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats with tilt adjustment further enhance versatility. This makes it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport varied cargo.
Conclusion
The Toyota Urban Cruiser AWD presents a compelling package with a distinctive design, strong acceleration, and impressive interior versatility. However, the firm ride, high energy consumption, and slow charging speed are significant drawbacks. It’s a promising start, but Toyota needs to address these issues to truly compete in the crowded electric SUV market. Whether the benefits outweigh the compromises will depend on individual priorities.