The Indian electric vehicle market is set for a significant surge in January 2026, with major automakers lining up new launches. Following the debut of the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV and ahead of the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Toyota is poised to enter the fray. The Japanese giant has officially teased the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, confirming its India debut on January 19, 2026.
Design and Styling: A Distinct Toyota Identity
While the Urban Cruiser EV shares its core platform and many components with the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Toyota has ensured distinct visual cues. The teaser reveals signature monopod LED headlamps paired with eyebrow-style LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs). Unlike its Maruti sibling, the Toyota EV incorporates pixel-style elements within the DRLs for a unique lighting signature.
The overall silhouette and dimensions are expected to mirror the e Vitara, but with a cleaner, less aggressively creased body for a more subdued appearance. Distinctive alloy wheel designs and a BEV badging on the charging flap will further differentiate it from its cousin.
Interior, Features, and Safety Package
Inside the cabin, the layout will be familiar, but Toyota is likely to offer different colour themes, potentially an all-black interior versus the e Vitara's black/tan combo. The feature list is expected to be comprehensive, including a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, a large touchscreen infotainment system, a fixed glass roof, ventilated front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and ambient lighting.
On the safety front, Toyota is packing the Urban Cruiser EV with a robust suite. This includes seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Additional safety tech will comprise a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an electronic parking brake, and front and rear parking sensors.
Powertrain, Range, and Market Positioning
The heart of the Urban Cruiser EV will be shared with the Maruti e Vitara. Prospective buyers can expect a choice between two battery packs: a 49 kWh unit and a larger 61 kWh option. The corresponding power outputs are projected to be 142 bhp and 172 bhp, with torque pegged at 192.5 Nm for both variants.
The most compelling figure for Indian consumers will be the range. The larger battery is anticipated to deliver an impressive 543 km on a single charge (likely as per MIDC or similar test cycle), while the smaller pack may offer around 344 km. Initially, the model will be offered in a front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration only.
This launch marks a pivotal moment for Toyota in India's electrification journey. By leveraging its partnership with Maruti Suzuki, the Urban Cruiser EV aims to strike a balance between Toyota's trusted brand value and competitive pricing, directly rivalling not just the e Vitara but also heating up the affordable electric SUV segment in early 2026.
