The Toyota Urban Cruiser hasn't been with us too long, but that hasn't stopped Toyota from offering two different generations of the model. First introduced in 2021, the range saw a fresh new version only 2-years later. The Urban Cruiser is priced right, ticks all the right boxes, and is backed by the reputation that the badge carries - or does it? We'll explain this a little later, but right now, you want to know if the Toyota Urban Cruiser is good for long drives. Find out more below.
Related: Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR MT (2023) Review
The name suggests that the compact SUV is only suited to urban environments, a vehicle that is easy to park and convenient in traffic but that doesn't like open roads. On the contrary, these features actually make the Toyota Urban Cruiser rather agreeable on a long trip. You should have no problem whatsoever loading the Urban Cruiser up and hitting the open road for a longer-than-usual adventure. How safe is the Toyota Urban Cruiser though?? Find out here.
Toyota-Suzuki alliance
The first generation Toyota Urban Cruiser was one of the first forays of the local Toyota entity that borrowed a platform from Suzuki. The Japanese manufacturers reached an agreement where Suzuki would produce Toyota badged versions of their Vitara Brezza under the name Urban Cruiser. As such, much of the vehicle resembles the Suzuki model, even down to the engines in use.
Before you scoff at the idea, Toyota, renowned for its low running costs and reliability, would have made sure that the Suzuki Vitara Brezza was a product capable of upholding this reputation. Indeed, the Vitara Brezza, much like most other Suzuki offerings, is as reliable as a Swiss watch and as affordable to run as a wind chime. The years have shown that both the Vitara Brezza and Urban Cruiser are dependable, low-maintenance vehicles. Find out what is covered by the Toyota Urban Cruiser warranty here.
The second generation Urban Cruiser once again borrows from Suzuki but this time steps things up a notch with Toyota electing to base the new Urban Cruiser on the larger and more capable Grand Vitara. As such, you get more space, improved tech and safety but the same cost-effective 1.5-litre power plant to ensure that the running costs remain affordable.
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Why the Toyota Urban Cruiser works on long drives
The latest Toyota Urban Cruiser is 370 mm longer than its predecessor, and with that comes a wheelbase that is 100 mm longer. This translates into better high-speed stability and improved ride quality - there's a reason that long-wheelbase cars get used as limos! This isn't all good, though, as it results in a larger turning circle, but at 10.2 m, it's still agreeable.
The latest version may sit 5 mm lower than the first generation but interior space is optimized so that occupants have more room for activities. There's more room for their luggage, too, with a larger 353-litre boot to handle all your luggage needs. The ground clearance is also improved, allowing for greater peace of mind when the road surface changes.
Safety is also a high priority when hitting the open road, and the latest Toyota Urban Cruiser is fitted with VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control) to complement the ABS and EBD safety systems. The XR models also bolster the safety systems with dual airbags and side and curtain airbags for six airbags in total. The XR model also offers cruise control, perfect for those long highway stints.
Ready to take the plunge? Check out some new and used Toyota Urban Cruiser offers here!
