Toyota’s entry into the compact SUV segment, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, is making waves for all the right reasons. Built in partnership with Maruti Suzuki, this urban SUV combines the reliability of Toyota with modern hybrid technology and sharp design cues. It’s a vehicle that blends performance, efficiency, and style—perfectly suited for city dwellers and long-distance travelers alike.
Bold Design That Turns Heads
The first thing you’ll notice about the Hyryder is its modern and bold exterior design. The front fascia boasts a glossy black grille flanked by sleek LED DRLs, giving the SUV a futuristic and upscale look. The muscular bonnet, chiseled sides, and prominent wheel arches contribute to its SUV stance, while the dual-tone paint options make it visually striking.
At the rear, the Hyryder features C-shaped LED tail lamps connected by a chrome strip, along with a clean bumper and integrated reflectors. Whether you’re driving through a bustling city or parked at a scenic viewpoint, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder never fails to impress.
A Premium Cabin Experience
Step inside, and you’re welcomed into a premium and well-designed cabin. Toyota has focused on comfort and functionality, using soft-touch materials on the dashboard and door panels. The dual-tone interiors, leather upholstery (in higher variants), and spacious layout offer an upscale experience.
The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and there’s also a digital instrument cluster for the driver. Features like automatic climate control, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof add to the SUV’s luxury appeal.
Rear seat comfort is also impressive, thanks to ample legroom and headroom, making the Hyryder a solid choice for family buyers.
Strong Hybrid Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Performance
What sets the Urban Cruiser Hyryder apart from many of its rivals is the strong hybrid powertrain option. The SUV is available with two types of powertrains:
- NeoDrive (Mild Hybrid): A 1.5L K-Series petrol engine paired with a mild hybrid system. It delivers a smooth driving experience with decent fuel efficiency.
- Strong Hybrid: This is where the Hyryder truly shines. The strong hybrid variant comes with a 1.5L TNGA Atkinson-cycle petrol engine combined with an electric motor. This system enables pure EV mode for short distances and boasts an impressive fuel efficiency of over 27 km/l, making it one of the most economical SUVs in its class.
Both powertrains offer automatic transmission options, while the NeoDrive variant also has an AWD (all-wheel drive) option, making it capable of light off-road adventures.
Safety First
Toyota doesn’t compromise on safety. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder comes with multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and hill descent control (in AWD variants). The build quality feels solid and dependable, reinforcing Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Verdict: The Hybrid Urban SUV Worth Considering
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder is more than just a good-looking SUV. It’s a forward-thinking vehicle that introduces hybrid technology into the mainstream Indian SUV market. With impressive fuel efficiency, a feature-rich cabin, premium looks, and Toyota’s dependable service network, the Hyryder makes a compelling case for anyone looking to buy a stylish, urban-friendly SUV.
If you’re considering an SUV that’s easy on the wallet and on the planet, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder should be on your shortlist.
