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The Grand Vitara-based Toyota Urban Cruiser (search for Urban Cruiser models here) is back with a bang, sporting more kit and space and a lovelier face. So what else is different - and should you trade in your previous-generation model? Let's delve into the details - we tested the Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xr manual at R347 400, the second-most affordable model.
Related: Toyota Urban Cruiser 2023 - First Drive Review
Styling
The new Urban Cruiser looks like a domesticated version of the current-gen Toyota RAV4 - the slanted headlamps, fog lamp housings and black mesh grille seem to form a smiling face - but it's a good look; everything is where it should be. The glossy piano black trim and shiny chrome elements that stretch from the headlights to the Toyota emblem in the centre, impart a sophisticated appearance, as does the brightwork surrounding the fog lamps.
Top 3 things you need to know about the Toyota Urban Cruiser
At the rear, The Urban Cruiser looks futuristic and fashionable, thanks to the double-C-shaped LED rear combination lamps that create a striking light signature, especially after dark. There's nothing to criticize as far as styling is concerned - it's a modern and cohesive package that is sure to mature well.
Toyota Urban Cruiser colour and price guide
Space, comfort, and convenience
Space is the name of the game in the new Urban Cruiser, because modern families need lots of it. While the second row was a little cramped in the previous model, the new Urban Cruiser doesn't have this issue. The boot is huge too and the seats can fold completely flat.
Moving a large, heavy framed print was easy and those who like to bring their bicycles along will appreciate the extra room - we picked up my neighbour's 24-inch bicycle from the bike shop after it had been serviced with zero effort - we didn't even have to fold the front passenger seat forward. The supportive seats are covered with a soft, yet hard-wearing material. Sadly there is no option for full leather seats, which is more family-friendly, especially when the kids eat in the car.
Related: Does the Urban Cruiser have a sunroof?
Infotainment is taken care of in the way of a reasonably-sized colour touchscreen. The system is Android Auto / Apple CarPlay compatible (wireless too!), and easy to use. The sound system is decent, but don't expect premium sound quality. You can also sign up for Toyota's optional telematics system with on-board Wi-Fi which can be topped up via the MyToyota app. There is a singular USB port up front, but you can always plug in a portable USB hub into the 12V power socket next to it.
Related: 6 Extras for your Toyota Urban Cruiser
Adjusting the (automatic) air-conditioning and temperature settings is as easy as flicking a switch upward or downwards. There are satellite buttons on the steering wheel (along with a voice control button) and the overall layout is sensible. The build quality seems solid and looks like it will be able to withstand destructive little fingers.
The Drive and Performance
The driving position is comfortable and outward visibility is very good. The steering wheel may not be leather-covered, but it doesn't feel cheap. There's a handy central armrest cubby for your arm or smaller items like keys.
The 4-speed automatic model would definitely not be my first choice, however. It has to make do with Suzuki's four-speed automatic gearbox which is noisy when you accelerate. Thankfully there is an overdrive button at the side of the automatic gear leave, which can be switched on so that the transmission will shift into the overdrive gear, which can run at a lower RPM which reduces fuel consumption and engine noise.
The 1.5-litre, 77 kW engine isn't exactly going to plaster a smile all over your face, but it's sufficient for the daily commute to work and school. We frequently had 2 adults and 2 older kids on board, and the Urban Cruiser didn't struggle to keep up with the other traffic, but at the coast cars usually perform better because the air isn't as thin as at the reef. After all, even its name suggests that it's not exactly built for drag races.
Related: What is covered under the Urban Cruiser's warranty?
As for how it handles, well, that's another story. It is absolutely ideal to withstand South African-sized potholes, as well as corrugated dirt and gravel roads. It's as if it was built for poor conditions - like you'll find in India - which is exactly where it's built. And with safety features such as traction and stability control (which can be switched off if needed), you're sure to stay stable and surefooted wherever you travel. You also get a full-size spare steel wheel so you don't have to struggle to your nearest Toyota on a Marie Biscuit at 70 km/h because you got a flat.
Related: Is the Urban Cruiser good for new drivers?
Fuel Economy
This is where the mind boggles. While my colleagues report usage as low as 6.1 litres per 100 km, my test model returned much higher figures - up to the upper 7s and even the early 8s. Could it be that my test car's trip computer was out? Possibly, but I kept on filling the Urban Cruiser up, anyway.
I also happened to have the Urban Cruiser's manual Suzuki Counterpart (the Grand Vitara, in the background - see above), in my garage at the same time - it was much lighter on fuel and much better to drive, not because of the badge (it's basically the same car), but because of the 5-speed manual gearbox. So if you are keen on the Urban Cruiser - go for the manual. The range for both the manual and auto is said to be 738 km, based on an average usage figure of 6.1 litres per 100 km - but I don't think it's realistic - not for the automatic model, anyway.
Safety
The Urban Cruiser doesn't disappoint in this department; apart from the usual suspects like ABS, brake assist, hill-start assist, Isofix, daytime running lamps, park distance control and a rearview camera, it also benefits from Suzuki's HEARTECT platform as well as ESP (or VSC) that prevents skidding and loss of control. Will you have rear passengers on board often? Just be sure the buy the Xr model then - the Xs only has 2 airbags but Xr models have 6. (The Grand Vitara has 6 airbags across the board.)
Price
Pricing is keen, considering what you get for your money. Here is the local lineup and what it costs.
| Model | Price (incl. VAT) |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XS | R 329 400 |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR | R 347 400 |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR Auto | R 369 900 |
Competitors
The Urban Cruiser faces stiff competition from the Hyundai Venue, Volkswagen T-Cross, Kia Sonet, and of course, the Suzuki Grand Vitara. In terms of space, however, only the Grand Vitara can really compare. The Suzuki Grand Vitara in entry-level GL trim (our test model) also has additional features such as LED projector headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rear window wiper over its Toyota counterpart in Xr trim.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara has another (rather large) feather in its cap - its warranty and service plan is more comprehensive - The Suzuki GV gets a 5-year/ 200 000 warranty and a 6-year/90 000 km service plan. (The service interval distance is 15 000 km as well.)
Concerned about running costs? We compare the Urban Cruiser to the Kia Sonet and Suzuki Grand Vitara here.
Verdict
There aren't many cars that tick as many boxes as the Urban Cruiser (and the Suzuki Grand Vitara) do. It's perfect for busy parents, active couples, retired folks, new drivers, young drivers, and dog lovers. It may not be the spriteliest, but it's probably one of the most practical cars money can buy in SA, right now.
