Toyota Teases Hyryder EV , Debut On Jan 19

Toyota’s teased Urban Cruiser EV is best understood as a rebadged Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, at least until Toyota confirms otherwise. It is expected to share the same platform, batteries and drivetrain, while wearing Toyota specific styling and trim. Early teasers suggest cosmetic changes at the front and rear, unique badging and a different variant mix, but the mechanicals, packaging and core cabin layout should closely mirror the e-Vitara.

On the outside, the Urban Cruiser EV is likely to retain the e-Vitara’s compact, upright proportions and practical stance. Toyota should differentiate it with revised bumpers, a distinct grille design, unique alloy wheels and different cladding to give it its own visual identity. Inside, the cabin layout, space and overall versatility are expected to remain unchanged. 

The long wheelbase should continue to offer comfortable front and rear legroom, along with a flexible rear seat setup that helps expand luggage space when required. Toyota will probably add its own upholstery choices, trim finishes and infotainment interface to create a familiar Toyota cabin feel without altering the basic architecture.

Mechanically, the Urban Cruiser EV is expected to carry over the same two battery options offered on the e-Vitara, a smaller pack and a larger one. Single motor front wheel drive should be standard, with higher variants delivering more power. In production form, the e-Vitara delivers around 142 hp with the smaller battery and about 172 hp with the larger pack. Performance is tuned for smooth, city friendly driving rather than outright sportiness, and the Toyota version should offer the same relaxed and usable character.

Range and charging are also expected to match the e-Vitara closely. The larger battery should deliver a practical real world range suitable for daily commuting as well as weekend trips. DC fast charging support will make public charging convenient, while AC home charging will handle everyday use. Final ARAI figures for India will depend on Toyota’s local calibration and testing, but real world range and charging behaviour should remain in line with the e-Vitara.

Safety and technology are likely to be carried over almost entirely. Expect multiple airbags, stability control and advanced driver assistance features similar to those offered on the e-Vitara. Toyota may reshuffle features across variants or offer different safety packs, but the underlying structure and safety systems should remain the same, ensuring strong crash protection and modern driver aids.

Source- Toyota Instagram