After much speculation and many rumours, the Japanese automaker has taken the wraps off the all-new Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. The mid-size SUV is now available for booking and will launch in September. 

Design-wise, the Hyryder combines the rugged aesthetics of an SUV with a modern and sleeker-looking bodywork. This is highlighted by the very prominent bonnet at the front, with big air dams underneath the LED DRLs. 

Speaking of which, they are connected via a chrome strip, a design choice we first saw on the Toyota Glanza. The same inspiration is carried on the back as well, with a chrome strip connecting the C-shaped LED lights. Completing the looks are the 17-inch alloy wheels. 

Step inside and you’ll be greeted with premium dual-tone interiors and soft-touch leather bits. Then there’s the 9-inch Suzuki infotainment system taking the centre stage, with all connectivity features. You also get ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, a heads-up display and a panoramic sunroof. Meanwhile, safety here is taken care of by six airbags with ABS, EBD, VSC, cruise control, hill-hold assist and descent control. 

Under the hood, the SUV comes with two different engine options – a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid and a 1.5-litre strong-hybrid. The former makes 102PS, mated to a 5-speed MT / 6-speed AT, while the latter makes 116PS, paired to an e-CVT gearbox. However, only the mild-hybrid option comes with an all-wheel drive setup.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder will have to prove its mettle in a highly competitive segment, consisting of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and the MG Astor. While there’s still some time for the official price reveal, we expect it to start at around the Rs 10 lakh mark (ex-showroom).

( Image credits: Toyota India )