Toyota Hyryder: The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder is Toyota’s aggressive big-banner launch in the hotly contested midsize SUV segment in the Indian market.
A product of a joint effort with Maruti Suzuki, the Hyryder is unique because it has something unique: robust hybrid technology.
At a moment where fuel prices are on the up and electric infrastructure is still developing, this hybrid SUV is a clever stop-gap solution between the traditional petrol engine world and full EVs.
Despite coming in several thousand less than the competition, the Hyryder boasts competitive features along with all the standard Toyotal relyability and amazing mpg’s.
built for the city and the long drive, comfort, economy and peace of mind combined.
SUV Tough Design With A Space Age Twist
Toyota has made sure that the Hyryder isn’t just faded into the background—it is standing out. Its exterior styling is a combination of elegance and SUV toughness.
The divided LED DRLs, slim grille with chrome framing and aggressive bumper make it look modern with a strong-faced look.
From the side it has a sleek profile with roof rails, chunky wheel arches and 17-inch alloy wheels (with presence).
Back there, wraparound LED tail lamps joined by a light bar make it feel upscale.
The Hyryder is urban-looking enough for city streets, but burly enough to feel solid on rougher trails.
Interior Full of Features with a Smart Design
Climb into the cabin and the Hyryder boasts a stylish interior with an unclutter flow and high quality materials.
And the dash takes soft touch finishes, layered styling, and hosts a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit (in the higher trims).
It comes with a floating touchscreen that is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus a 6-speaker sound system.
Comfort elements comprise auto climate control, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, cruise control, and ambient lighting.
The instrument cluster is a mix of analogue and digital dials with an MID that reads out real-time hybrid performance and trip data.
There’s plenty of room for the first and second rows, although boot space is a bit down in the powerful hybrid option due to the battery placement. Yet it’s manageable for everyday or a quick weekend escape.
Hybrid Powertrain – the Most Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Powertrain in its Class
A key USP of the Hyryder is its potent hybrid powertrain. The 1.5-litre petrol engine is mated with an electric motor which produces a combined power of 115 PS.
It employs self-charging hybrid tech so you don’t have to plug it in. The car changes between gas, electric, or both, based on drivin- g conditions.
This configuration helps the Hyryder achieve a best-in-segment fuel efficiency that ranges more than 27 km/l, which is suited for city commuters with high traffic on streets.
The EV mode is fantastic for those brief distances, it runs silently and has no emissions.
Besides the hybrid, the SUV is powered by a 1.5L petrol engine regular (manual and automatic) and a mild-hybrid AWD version for light off-roading.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Hyryder provides a smooth and responsive ride. Suspension copes well with potholes and ripples, and the cabin shields passengers from road noise.
If not highly athletic, its steering is light (great for big-city driving), and the hybrid version is fluid around town in low-speed traffic.
Highway track is stable, although performance is still more about miles per gallon than miles per hour.
The powertrain, mated to the e-CVT automatic gearbox is at its linear best in the city while it may feel slightly reluctant during sudden overtakes.
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Pros
Great fuel economy, particularly in hybrid form
Contemporary SUV-inspired design with premium look
Cabin with all you can ask for with Panoramic Sunroof, ventilation and more
smoot ride Quality seats
Toyota’s after sales experience and reliability
Cons
Hybrid version offered at ‘premium’ price
Boot space impinged in strong hybrid trim
It’s also not mind-blowing to drive, especially in e-CVT hybrid form.
No diesel offering, which some buyers still want
AWD available only is mild-hybrid version
Verdict
In midsize SUVs, the Toyota Hyryder stands out by focusing on three things many city buyers care about most these days: fuel economy, comfort, and smart tech.
With powerful hybrid performance, a sleek design and available safety features that stand out, it will be a high-value long-term, cost-effective option for the Indian roads.
If you’re ready to commit to a hybrid lifestyle and need a useful, well-equipped SUV, the Hyryder is a future-ready option to put on your short list.