Ushering in the next instalment in Toyota’s passenger car expansion strategy, is the new Urban Cruiser. Conceived as a fun, affordable and compact crossover vehicle, the Urban Cruiser has been designed to play in the city during weekdays, while taking you to your next adventure on the weekend.In addition, the Urban Cruiser is the second product of the Toyota-Suzuki alliance (following the Starlet), building upon the core model architecture, while bringing Toyota’s comprehensive dealer support, customer service and parts’ supply network to the party.Exterior StylingThe Urban Cruiser features rugged urban styling replete with a raised stance, textured side- and wheel-arch mouldings and bumper guards. The front features a large radiator grille with two horizontal slats and centrally-mounted Toyota insignia – these are flanked by chrome accent strips and LED projector headlamps (standard across the range).An aggressive front bumper design features high-mounted fog lamps with a prominent contour line separating the upper and lower sections. The lower apron is finished in matte black with a silver bumper guard adding the finishing touch.The side profile continues the ‘squared-off’ look, with short overhangs that are further accentuated by the black wheel mouldings flowing into the lower bumper sections. Roof rails (where fitted) and a roof spoiler add to the ‘urban aesthetics’.Moving to the rear, large rectangular taillights are complemented by a large tailgate garnish embossed with “Urban Cruiser”. Echoing the front, the lower apron is finished in textured black with a silver ‘diffuser’ section.Interior StylingThe cabin offers a comfortable space characterised by excellent ergonomics and optimised exterior visibility. The upper fascia houses the large touchscreen infotainment system and ventilation outlets with an elegant piano-black frame. The lower section incorporates the climate control switchgear, a storage compartment and power/USB outlets. A sporty 3-spoke steering wheel (leather-sheathed for the Xr model) with metallic inserts and steering switches provides classic control.The twin-hooded instrument binnacle features easy-to-read elliptical gauges and a centrally-mounted Multi-Information Display (MID). A unique feature is the silver trim inserts with 3D cube-shaped motif, which lend an element of brightness to the dashboard and door panels.The black fabric seats feature a honeycomb pattern, with the rest of the interior finished off in hard-wearing black, featuring a textured pattern. Large door pockets, glove compartment and additional oddment binnacles provide convenient storage spaces.Weight, Dimensions & CapacitiesThe Urban Cruiser was designed around the ‘compact on the outside, spacious on the inside’ mantra. The vehicle makes use of a relatively short overall length of 3995mm (making parking manoeuvres a breeze), combined with a wider and taller bodyshape to create a compact yet solid stance.The large rear tailgate has been designed to accommodate a large aperture – to make loading items easier. In addition, the luggage capacity of 328 litres can further be expanded by the folding rear seats.A class-leading towing capacity of 400 kg unbraked and 1100kg braked, ramps up the utility factor.Engine & TransmissionThe Urban Cruiser is powered by 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine delivering 77 kW and 138 Nm – providing fuss-free motoring. Fuel consumption is registered at a frugal 6.2 litres per 100km, while CO2 emissions fall within the 145 to 147 g/km range. Top speed is 170 km/h.Buyers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic (depending on grade chosen) – all driving the front wheels.Suspension & ChassisA traditional McPherson strut front suspension layout has been adopted, with a Torsion Beam design in the rear aiding packaging as well as manufacturing costs. The vehicle is fitted with 16-inch wheels – steel versions on the entry model and alloy for the rest – which in turn are shod with either 205-60-R16 or 215-60-R16 tyres.Grade Strategy & SpecificationA three-grade strategy has been adopted, using the now-familiar Toyota grade names Xi, Xs and Xr. The entry-level Xi model features keyless-entry with push start, electric windows all round, air-conditioning, tilt-adjustable steering, power-adjustable mirrors, LED headlamps and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL). Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) offers drivers additional peace of mind.The aforementioned touchscreen infotainment system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing users seamless smartphone connectivity. With this functionality, occupants can access and display Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps for navigational duty while also streaming their favourite music from apps such as Apple Music, Spotify, SoundCloud and JOOX.Text and messaging-service messages can be read out to the user, with speech-to-text functionality ensuring safe communication while driving. Bluetooth, Aux and USB inputs are also catered for.The mid-tier Xs model adds alloy wheels, roof rails, body-coloured door handles, power-retractable mirrors and rear window wiper with demister function. On the inside, the Xs offers auto air-conditioning (climate control) and reverse camera, a secondary glove compartment, rear armrest and 60:40 split backrest.Serving as the flagship of the range, the Xr inherits LED fog lamps, automatic headlights, cruise control, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rain-sensing wipers, dual 12-volt power outlets, front armrest, leather steering wheel and the inclusion of two tweeter speakers. The convenience factor is also amplified by glove box illumination, a cooled storage compartment, map reading and front foot well lights, as well as luggage compartment illumination.Safety & SecurityThe safety and security specs include ABS and EBD, side protection beams, driver and passenger airbags and ISOFIX. An alarm and immobilser system is also included on all models.Toyota Connect & MyToyota AppAll Urban Cruiser models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data. Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App. This intuitive app allows on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services and much more.As communicated in November 2020, Toyota Connect now also provides access to the MyEntertainment suite of e-services. This includes Videoplay (Video streaming) and MyMuze (Music streaming) services, that offer Toyota customers an improved ownership experience with enhanced connectivity and added-value.Model line-up & PricingUrban Cruiser 1.5 Xi MT – R 247 900Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xs MT – R 267 800Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xs AT – R 289 000Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xr MT – R 294 500Urban Cruiser 1.5 Xr AT – R 315 700Warranty & MaintenanceAll Urban Cruiser models are sold with a 3-services/45 000 km service plan. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided. Service intervals are pegged at 12 months/15 000 km. Customers can purchase an additional service plan and warranty options via the extensive dealer network of 220.

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