Shape of You

Introduction: A big WELL DONE to Toyota for bringing this new, bigger, sexier and improved version of the Urban cruiser to the SA market, but sadly it looks like it’s going to be the last generation we will see from Toyota’s India manufacturing plant. Toyota as a company dominates 25% of all new vehicle sales with last month’s sales reaching 11524, and 649 of those going to excited new Urban cruiser buyers. The very competitive B segment SUV line up has many rivals, but the Urban cruiser rises to the occasion ranking in at number 11 of all new vehicle sales for February 2024. Going forward we should see a lot more change in the motor industry due to economic reasons and more partnerships and shared resources, will continue to drive cost savings while not compromising on safety and technology. Interestingly, Toyota as of January 2024, had 130 different models to choose from in South Africa! Even the Industry Giants have merged with major competitors to keep up with their quality offerings.

Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The 1.5 Liter 4 cylinder produces 77 Kw and 138 Nm of torque, giving an awesome punch at the start, whilst you cruise through the 4-speed automatic gearbox (plus an old school O/D function) to various speeds. I never took the Urban Cruiser on the open road so cannot comment on speeds in excess of 100 km/h but enjoyed driving the vehicle around our city here in Durban, KZN. Toyota claim a 6.1 L per 100 kms combined average of fuel consumption but due to my hasty driving and testing I ended up on 8.1 from the 45 Liter tank. I felt that the vehicle drove well, cornered with respect and was overall a lovely and comfortable ride for me and my passengers.

Features: I have to include the whopping 210 mms of ground clearance as a feature. It is without a doubt a winner in every respect and will take this front wheel drive to places not available to some of the other vehicles on offer in this segment. I am hugely regretful to have not had the opportunity to take the Urban Cruiser off the beaten track, as I feel that it would fair very well on a multitude of terrains. Other features include BT, Toyota Connect, Android/ Apple car play, Immobiliser, VSC, EBD, HAC, PDC, ABS, Keyless entry, push start button, 60/40 rear seat split, auto air conditioning, rear camera, cruise control, assist grip, 17 inch alloys for the XR, 4 speakers which deliver terrific sound quality, USB- A socket in the front and a 12V socket, meter illumination control, key warning reminder, side, curtain, , passenger airbags, 4 cup holders etc.

Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: The Interior is spacious, ergonomic and has a great feel with a good quality trim. I was amazed how big the legroom was for the passengers whilst not jeopardizing the front passenger’s space in any way. I genuinely love the exterior and look of the Urban Cruiser. At a glance it is stylish, with lovely lines and a kind of mini-L/C 300 look, which I find really appealing. I am surprised with the 353 Liters of boot space because it appears larger, but nevertheless still has ample room for a weekend away to our gorgeous berg, bush or beach destinations in beautiful KZN.  

Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: From R382900, Warranty 3 years/ 100 000 kms, 4 years/ 60 000 km service plan with 15 000 km service intervals or every 12 months.

 In Summary: So, it’s the Shape of You that makes this vehicle so awesome to me - Love the shape! I can see young and old buyers, of all types with different interests fitting into the Urban Cruiser and in doing so, will be able to lead the lifestyle they choose, whatever that might be, thanks to the looks, size, comfort, and ground clearance. I am sure that others will..….follow my lead, Come, Come on now, follow my lead…...!

*This article is written in my opinion only. For detailed information on the specs, please contact Toyota SA*