Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is stepping into the electric vehicle era in India with its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the Urban Cruiser EV. This mid-size electric SUV is essentially a badge-engineered version of the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, born from the long-standing collaboration between Toyota and Suzuki. Set for a launch on January 19, 2026, the Urban Cruiser EV will mark Toyota’s entry into the growing Indian EV market, following closely on the heels of the Maruti e Vitara’s debut.
This rebadged model combines Maruti’s cost-effective platform with Toyota’s reputation for reliability, aiming to appeal to buyers seeking a practical, feature-packed electric SUV.
Visually, the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV borrows heavily from the Maruti DNA — practical, contemporary, and not overly futuristic or dated. It features a closed-off grille for better aerodynamics, an ADAS module, active air flaps, 18-inch dual-tone alloys, and body-coloured ORVMs.
While the side and rear profiles remain very similar to the e Vitara, the front end gets subtle Toyota-specific tweaks, such as a smoother fascia and unique badging, to differentiate it from its Maruti sibling.
Step inside, and the Urban Cruiser EV offers a premium, dual-tone cabin with vertical AC vents, button-based HVAC controls, a single-pane sunroof, and a signature two-spoke steering wheel.
Key highlights include a large 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster. Expect additional features like Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and ample space thanks to the 2700mm wheelbase.
The Urban Cruiser EV will share the same underpinnings as the e Vitara, built on the co-developed Heartect-e platform. It offers two battery options:
- 49kWh — Front-wheel drive (FWD), around 143-144 hp.
- 61kWh — Higher output (up to 173-174 hp in FWD, with potential AWD variants), delivering a claimed range of up to 543km (ARAI).
Both use efficient LFP battery tech, with strong torque for quick acceleration and regenerative braking.
As Toyota’s maiden EV in India, the Urban Cruiser EV is expected to compete against models like the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, MG ZS EV, and its own sibling, the Maruti e Vitara. Pricing is anticipated in the Rs 20-25 lakh range (ex-showroom), with the Toyota badge likely commanding a slight premium for its brand appeal and extended service network.
With production at Suzuki’s Gujarat facility, this collaboration promises accessible, reliable electrification for Indian buyers. Stay tuned for official prices and full specs as the January 19 launch approaches — the EV revolution in India just got more exciting!
