India’s Toyota Urban Cruiser gets spec upgrade, South Africa next?

Unveiled three years ago as the indirect replacement for the smaller, original based on the Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Toyota India has removed the wraps from the facelift Urban Cruiser Hyryder that could find its way to South Africa.

What’s new?

The latter suffix, denoting the fitting of a hybrid powertrain not offered on local models, the Hyryder’s main gain is a new six-speed automatic transmission on all-wheel-drive models in place of the five-speed manual – a configuration used in South Africa by alliance partner Suzuki for the flagship hybrid version of the Grand Vitara.

Not expected on local models due to the lack of not only a hybrid powertrain, but also the all-wheel-drive system, the Hyryder’s spec upgrades do, however, present a better option for South Africa should approval be given by Toyota South Africa Motors.

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Externally unchanged from the model that debuted in 2022, the Hyryder’s spec changes consist of six airbags, an improved instrument cluster and type-C USB ports across all trim grades, with higher-up models gaining an electric driver’s seat, ambient lighting and a rear roller blind.

On select automatic variants, the mechanical handbrake makes way for an electronic system, with the final additions being ventilated front seats on flagship models, an air quality display on the instrument cluster, expansion of the tyre pressure monitoring system to more derivatives, and a dual-tone interior colour.

Unlike in South Africa, where certain features have been let out to reduce costs, the Hyryder retains the seven-inch or nine-inch infotainment system – the former the sole option on all local market models – the 360-degree surround-view camera system, Head-Up Display, cruise control and rear air-conditioning vents.

Powerunits

In India, two engine options are offered; the Suzuki-made 1.5-litre mild-hybrid K15C outputting 75kW/135Nm, and a Toyota specific 1.5-litre full hybrid outputting 85 kW.

Transmissions on the former again include a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic, with the latter’s only option being an e-CVT.

In South Africa, the Urban Cruiser makes do with the stalwart Suzuki produced 1.5-litre K15B unit that sends 77kW/138Nm to the front wheels via either a five-speed or four-speed automatic transmission.

Not yet approved

Having made its market debut in 2023, the various changes to the Urban Cruiser Hyryder, as mentioned, hasn’t yet been confirmed for South Africa, but don’t be surprised if an announcement pertaining to this emerges within the coming months.

As a reminder, current pricing starts at R342 500 for the entry-level manual XS, increases to R359 700 for the mid-range XR manual, and concludes at R382 900 for the flagship XR automatic.

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