Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Expert Review

The compact SUV segment has seen many names top the chart starting from the Renault Duster going to the highly popular Hyundai Creta. However, 2023 witnessed the introduction of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Country cousins, both these products are the same by way of their underpinnings, powertrain options and features. Where they can be differentiated is via their exterior design. Today the SUV that we have with us is the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder in its manual avatar featuring AWD (All-Wheel-Drive).

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Exterior Design

Priced north in the region of Rs 17 lakh price bracket, the Toyota Hyrder in our view is the better looking out of the two. Mind you, this is not an outright comparison between these vehicles but a couple of facts that state their true nature of existence. When seen by the naked eye, the exterior design elements instantly draw the perception of the SUV being premium. This appeal is further cemented via key design elements like twin DRLs, a piano black finished grille featuring a strip of chrome, a chunky-looking bumper incorporating LED headlights, and an oversized air dam below which sits a dark grey chin. On top, the raised bonnet provides a muscular feel and the dual-tone (white and black) paint scheme adds character to the four-wheeler.

To the sides, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder offers flared wheel arches, black plastic cladding all around, 17-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) batch, black finished side view mirrors and roof rails. Towards the rear, the split tail light setup with C-shaped LED elements for brake lights provides the SUV with a distinctive look. The presence of a reserve light and indicators positioned below in a separate vertical housing further add character to the exterior design. A roof-mounted spoiler and silver finished skid plate look-alike in the bumper help complete the modern look.

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Interior Layout

The interior of the Hyryder might seem a similar sight the moment you jump inside. This is due to the reason that it has the same layout that you get to see in the Grand Vitara, however with a twist. To make it more Toyota-centric, the manufacturer has thrown in premium bits like leather material for the dashboard featuring double stitching and silver inserts found on the centre console which would remind you of the Fortuner. The all-black colour theme and the full glass panoramic sunroof make the cabin feel bright and airy. Though in peak summers the netted sunshade below the glass roof does tend to make the insides feel a bit warm despite a pretty responsive air conditioning system.

Since most of us in the metros end up spending a lot of time on the road, it would be nice to know that the seats both in the front and rear are comfortable for short plus long commutes. They feel broad and well cushioned though in the front we did encounter a bit of hardness, especially with regard to the lumbar support. In addition, there is ample leg, shoulder and legroom for all passengers.

To keep occupants entertained there is a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. From the aspect of newness, there is not much to look forward to as it is the same audio system that can be found in the Vitara Brezza that says the sound is decent while playing your favourite music track.  For short as well as long getaways, the vehicle offers 373 litres of boot space.

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Engine and Performance

Unlike the segment leader – the 2023 New Hyundai Creta, this one has in its arsenal an AWD option. Featuring Suzuki All-Grip Technology, the SUV is more than capable of tackling any sort of terrain. Before we get down to its on and off-road performance let us glance through its engine specification. What you get here is a 1.5-litre gasoline block that delivers a maximum power output of 101 bhp with 136.8 Nm of peak torque. Given the engine, the company offers a manual 5-speed transmission. Combined the Hyryder comes across as a perfect fit for city use, however, regular gearshifts somehow tend to dampen the overall driving experience. Plus, the absence of a 6th gear does leave you wanting for more on the open highway. The vehicle offers two different Drive Modes namely Sport and Snow. The former is for spirited driving while the latter helps in snowy conditions.

Regarding its ride quality, the compact SUV’s suspension is set up in such a way that it soaks in potholes and broken roads with utter ease. As for handling, it does well when thrown at corners even at high speeds. The strongest point of the package is its AWD system. The true essence of All-Grip Technology is demonstrated by the vehicle’s off-road capability which helps it cross obstacles with utter ease. With all points taken, the overall driving experience was decent.

Verdict

Since this is a Toyota, brand value works in this SUV’s favour. What also attracts not just onlookers, but customers would be its premium exterior appeal. Subtle upgrades ensure that the model is more potent than its country cousin (Grand Vitara) that said its Plain Jane interior is a bit of a letdown however better build quality helps its cause. The powertrain, manual transmission and AWD come together to make it more than capable of tackling any sort of terrain both on and off-road. The absence of an automatic gearbox would have customers wanting a bit more. Overall given what it has to offer at its price point, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder is a good option as your next new 4x4 SUV.