Toyota is preparing to step firmly into India’s fast-growing electric vehicle space with the upcoming Urban Cruiser EV, its first mass-market electric SUV for the country. Expected to debut on January 19, 2026, the new EV will target the highly competitive ₹20–25 lakh segment, where several new electric SUVs are set to arrive over the next year.
A Known Name, Reimagined for the EV Era
The Urban Cruiser EV is closely linked to the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, developed as part of the long-standing Toyota–Suzuki partnership. While the underlying platform and electric architecture are shared, Toyota is expected to give the Urban Cruiser EV its own visual identity and feature mix, helping it appeal to buyers looking for Toyota’s reliability with a modern electric twist.
Battery Options and Expected Performance
Toyota plans to offer the Urban Cruiser EV with two battery choices, allowing buyers to pick based on usage and budget:
- A 49 kWh battery, aimed at everyday urban driving.
- A larger 61 kWh battery, focused on better performance and extended range.
The bigger battery variant is expected to deliver a claimed range of up to 543 km, positioning the Urban Cruiser EV as a strong option for buyers worried about long-distance usability and charging gaps.
Tech-Forward Cabin and Safety Focus
Inside, the Urban Cruiser EV is likely to feel thoroughly modern. A dual-screen layout combining a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system is expected to be standard on higher variants. Features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats, and powered seat adjustment should add to everyday comfort.
On the safety front, Toyota is expected to offer a Level-2 ADAS suite, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, and a 360-degree camera, making the Urban Cruiser EV one of the more tech-loaded options in its class.
Strong Competition in a Crowded Segment
With its expected pricing, the Urban Cruiser EV will go head-to-head with upcoming and existing electric SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6, MG ZS EV, and even its sibling, the Maruti e-Vitara. This segment is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in India’s EV landscape.
What It Means for India’s EV Market
Toyota’s entry into the compact electric SUV category signals a clear shift toward wider EV adoption in India. By focusing on practical range, familiar SUV styling, and advanced safety features, the Urban Cruiser EV aims to attract buyers looking to move from petrol or diesel to electric without compromising on usability.
As the official launch approaches, all eyes will be on how Toyota prices and positions the Urban Cruiser EV against its rivals and whether it can carve out a strong identity in an increasingly crowded electric SUV market.