The wait is finally over. After years of focusing on Hybrids, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has officially teased its first-ever purely electric SUV for the Indian market. The Japanese giant dropped a mysterious teaser image and video on its social media handles this weekend, confirming that a big announcement is coming on January 20, 2026.
While Toyota has not officially named the car yet, industry experts and leaks suggest this is the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV—a car based on the upcoming Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara but with a unique Toyota design.
What Does the Teaser Reveal?
The teaser is dark and shadowy, but it reveals some crucial design details that set it apart from its Maruti sibling.
- New “Pixel” LED Lights: The most visible feature is the new set of LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). Unlike the Y-shaped lights seen on the Maruti e-Vitara, the Toyota EV sports a sharper, “eyebrow-style” DRL with pixel-like elements inside. This gives it a more premium and futuristic look.
- Monopod Headlamps: Below the DRLs, you can see a main “monopod” headlight unit, which looks very different from the current Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
- BEV Badging: The teaser also zooms in on a ‘BEV’ (Battery Electric Vehicle) badge on the charging flap, confirming 100% electric power.
- Silhouette: The overall shape looks muscular with a closed-off front grille (typical for EVs) and chunky wheel arches, hinting at a proper SUV stance.
Engine, Battery, and Range (Expected)
Read more: Toyota Corolla 2026
Since this car is being co-developed with Suzuki, under the skin, it will be a machine we are already hearing about.
- Platform: It is built on the new skateboard platform dedicated to EVs.
- Battery Options: It is expected to come with two battery choices:
- 49 kWh pack: Good for city driving (Range approx. 400 km).
- 61 kWh pack: Designed for long trips (Range approx. 500+ km).
- Performance: The electric motor is likely to produce around 174 PS of power on the higher variant. While the global model might get All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the India-spec version will likely be Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) to keep costs low.
Interior: What to Expect?
Toyota usually changes the interior color themes to look more “grown-up” compared to Maruti.
- Dual Screens: Expect a large 10.25-inch digital driver display connected to a 10.1-inch infotainment screen.
- Features: It will likely pack premium features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, and a wireless charger.
- Safety: Just like the Hyryder, this EV is expected to come with 6 airbags as standard and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) for highway safety.
Why Does This Launch Matter?
Toyota has been “late” to the EV party in India, preferring Hybrids like the Camry and Hyryder. This launch proves that Toyota is now serious about fighting for the electric car market share.
It will directly compete against:
- Hyundai Creta EV (also launching soon)
- Tata Curvv.ev and Nexon.ev
- Mahindra BE.6
- Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara
Expected Price and Launch Date
With the official unveil scheduled for January 20, 2026, we expect the price announcement to happen shortly after.
- Estimated Price: Rs 18 Lakh to Rs 24 Lakh (ex-showroom).
- Bookings: Dealers might start accepting unofficial bookings later this week.
This is a huge moment for Toyota fans who wanted the reliability of a “T-badge” but the running cost of an electric car. Stay tuned for the full reveal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the name of Toyota’s new electric car?
While not officially confirmed, it is widely expected to be called the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV.
2. When is the Toyota electric SUV launching in India?
Toyota has teased the reveal for January 20, 2026. The car will likely go on sale in February or March 2026.
3. What is the range of the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV?
The car is expected to offer a range of over 500 km on a full charge with the larger 61 kWh battery pack.
4. Is this car the same as the Maruti e-Vitara?
Yes, they share the same engine and battery platform. However, the Toyota version will have a different exterior design, different lights, and a different interior color theme.
5. Will the Toyota EV have a sunroof?
Yes, the top variants are expected to feature a fixed panoramic glass roof or a standard electric sunroof.
