The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is the latest entrant in Toyota’s lineup, positioned as a premium crossover that builds upon the Maruti Suzuki Fronx. Toyota has made key enhancements in design, interior features, and warranty coverage, making the Taisor a compelling option in the subcompact SUV segment. This in-depth review covers all aspects of the Toyota Taisor, from its design and performance to its features, safety, and areas for improvement.
Table of Contents
1. Pricing and Variants
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is available in 12 different variants, catering to different customer needs. The pricing is competitive, starting at ₹7.74 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base model and reaching up to ₹13.04 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-end model. These price points position the Taisor against rivals such as the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.
Toyota’s pricing strategy ensures that the Taisor offers value for money, especially with the added Toyota reliability and an improved warranty package.
2. Engine and Performance
2.1 Engine Options
The Toyota Taisor is powered by a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology.
- Engine Displacement: 998 cc (Turbocharged)
- Power Output: 99 bhp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 147.6 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm
- Transmission Options:
- 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
- 6-speed Automatic Transmission (Torque Converter – AT) with Paddle Shifters
2.2 Driving Experience
Despite being a three-cylinder engine, the Taisor offers an impressively smooth and silent drive. Toyota has tuned the engine to deliver low NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, making it comfortable for city and highway driving.
- Low-Speed Performance: The Taisor gets off the line quickly and accelerates smoothly. However, there is a noticeable lag at around 1,500 rpm, where the engine response feels slightly dull.
- Mid-Range & High-Speed Performance: The engine becomes more eager after 2,500 rpm, delivering strong acceleration.
- Transmission Response: The automatic gearbox performs well, with quick downshifts when required. Paddle shifters add to the driving experience.
- Fuel-Saving Features:
- ISG Motor and Battery Assist: This provides additional power when needed.
- Auto Start-Stop System: Turns off the engine at traffic signals to improve fuel efficiency.
2.3 Ride and Handling
- Ground Clearance: 190mm, making it easy to tackle speed breakers and rough roads.
- Suspension Setup: The ride quality is smooth at high speeds, but it feels stiff at lower speeds.
- Braking: Progressive braking offers good stopping power and confidence-inspiring stability.
- Steering Feel: Light and easy to maneuver in city traffic, but lacks feedback at high speeds.
- Body Roll: The car leans when taking sharp corners, requiring better suspension tuning.
3. Fuel Efficiency
The Toyota Taisor delivers ARAI-certified mileage of:
- 19.86 kmpl (Manual Transmission)
- 21.18 kmpl (Automatic Transmission)
The mild-hybrid system and auto start-stop technology contribute to its fuel efficiency, making it one of the more economical turbo-petrol cars in this segment.
4. Interior and Features
The Toyota Taisor offers a premium and comfortable cabin loaded with features.
4.1 Dashboard and Tech Features
- Head-Up Display (HUD) for better driving visibility.
- Smartplay Cast Touchscreen Infotainment System (supports smartwatch connectivity).
- Steering-Mounted Controls for audio, calls, and cruise control.
- Tilt and Telescopic Steering for added convenience.
- Sliding Centre Armrest for driver comfort.
- Toyota i-Connect for remote vehicle ignition, door lock/unlock, and vehicle tracking.
4.2 Comfort and Space
- Rear AC Vents positioned slightly lower than ideal.
- 60:40 Split-Folding Rear Seats for additional boot space.
- Rear Legroom and Headroom:
- Good legroom and thigh support, but headroom is slightly restrictive for tall passengers.
- Storage Options:
- Front armrest, centre console, and door pads provide ample storage spaces.
- Boot Space: 308 litres, enough for two large suitcases and soft bags.
5. Safety and Security
Toyota has equipped the Taisor with several active and passive safety features.
5.1 Standard Safety Features
- Dual Front Airbags
- ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Hill-Hold Assist
- Reverse Parking Sensors
- Three-Point Seatbelts for All Passengers
5.2 Advanced Safety Features (Higher Variants)
- Six Airbags for added safety.
- 360-Degree Camera (not HD quality).
- Auto Anti-Glare Rearview Mirror
- Over-Speed Alert
5.3 NCAP Safety Rating
- The Toyota Taisor has not yet been crash-tested by NCAP, so its official safety rating is currently unavailable.
6. Exterior Design and Styling
The Toyota Taisor is a stylish crossover with bold design elements.
6.1 Exterior Highlights
- Trapezoidal Front Grille with chrome garnish blending into LED DRLs.
- Dual-Tone Roof and Roof Rails add a sporty appeal.
- 16-inch Machined Alloy Wheels for a premium look.
- Connected LED Taillamps enhance modern aesthetics.
6.2 Design Criticism
- Resembles the Maruti Fronx with minimal changes.
- Toyota could have added more unique design elements instead of just rebadging.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor variant-wise price list in a table format:
| Variant | Engine | Fuel Type | Transmission | Mileage (ARAI) | Power | Ex-Showroom Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Cruiser Taisor E 1.2 Petrol MT | 1197 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.71 kmpl | 89 bhp | ₹7.74 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor S 1.2 Petrol MT | 1197 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.71 kmpl | 89 bhp | ₹8.60 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor E 1.2 CNG MT | 1197 cc | CNG | Manual | 28.51 km/kg | 76 bhp | ₹8.72 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor S Plus 1.2 Petrol MT | 1197 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.71 kmpl | 89 bhp | ₹8.99 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor S 1.2 Petrol AMT | 1197 cc | Petrol | Automatic (AMT) | 22.79 kmpl | 89 bhp | ₹9.13 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor S Plus 1.2 Petrol AMT | 1197 cc | Petrol | Automatic (AMT) | 22.79 kmpl | 89 bhp | ₹9.53 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor G 1.0 Petrol MT | 998 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.18 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹10.56 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor V 1.0 Petrol MT | 998 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.18 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹11.48 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor V 1.0 Petrol MT Dual Tone | 998 cc | Petrol | Manual | 21.18 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹11.64 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor G 1.0 Petrol AT | 998 cc | Petrol | Automatic (TC) | 19.86 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹11.96 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor V 1.0 Petrol AT | 998 cc | Petrol | Automatic (TC) | 19.86 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹12.88 Lakh |
| Urban Cruiser Taisor V 1.0 Petrol AT Dual Tone | 998 cc | Petrol | Automatic (TC) | 19.86 kmpl | 99 bhp | ₹13.04 Lakh |
7. Pros & Cons Summary
7.1 Positives
✔ Stylish and Premium Crossover Design
✔ Feature-Rich Cabin (HUD, Touchscreen, Wireless Charger, etc.)
✔ Fuel-Efficient Turbo-Petrol Engine
✔ Smooth Ride Quality at High Speeds
✔ Spacious and Practical Interior
✔ Good Ground Clearance (190mm)
✔ Toyota’s Reliability and Better Warranty Coverage
7.2 Negatives
❌ Lag in Engine Response at 1,500 rpm
❌ Firm Ride Quality at Low Speeds
❌ Lack of High-Speed Steering Feedback
❌ Slight Body Roll Around Corners
❌ Headroom Could Be Better for Tall Passengers
❌ 360-Degree Camera Display Lacks HD Quality
❌ Not Yet Tested for NCAP Safety Ratings
8. Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Toyota Taisor?
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is a well-rounded crossover that offers:
✅ Good design
✅ Modern features
✅ Efficient performance
✅ Toyota’s brand reliability
However, Toyota has missed opportunities to make it more unique than the Maruti Fronx. Despite a few drawbacks like firm low-speed ride quality and limited headroom, the Taisor remains a strong competitor in the subcompact SUV segment.
✔ For buyers looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient, and feature-rich crossover with Toyota’s reliability, the Taisor is a great choice.
✔ However, if you want better high-speed handling and a unique design, competitors like the Tata Nexon or Hyundai Venue might be worth considering.
Also read : Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder:13 lakh price?
