Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Long Term Review - Final Report

It is true. You miss things once they move away from you. Take the case of the Toyota Hyryder for instance. Once Toyota took it back from our fleet, I missed the car thanks largely to its excellent fuel economy. There was still a bar of fuel left on the fuel gauge as we speak and the DTE shows a range of around 70km.

Since the arrival of the Hyryder around the end of July, the car has managed to cover over 700kms and I did not filled any gas in the tank.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder simply negates the need to buy a diesel car if you drive a lot and want high fuel economy. By my rough calculations the car should be delivering around 17-18kpl. The onboard trip computer also shows around 17kpl.

The chassis has been designed really well and can take loads of abuse, especially when driven over bad roads. The solid build and the brilliant suspension provides great comfort over long journeys taking the sting away from badly patched up roads. What you will also enjoy is the direct steering, which gives ample feel and feedback.

As mentioned in my earlier report, the other impressive bit is that this particular example has done over 25,000km on the odometer and doesn’t suffer from any squeaks or rattles that is a usual trait with most Maruti cars(after all it is a Maruti design).

Another thing to cherish is the seamless wireless connection that you get for Apple CarPlay. Just pair the device once and you are good to go. The front seat comfort also is very good. The cooled seats add more poshness into the cabin, especially after you’ve had a long day at work, this is the car you want to drive back home in. Comfortable and noise free.

The interiors lack flair and are boring. In fact the design is very similar to the smaller Toyota Taisor. Some elements could have been changed. Also, the main gauges can be confusing to operate. The boot also on the hybrid model lacks any space and if you plan on travelling long distances you need to pack carefully.

Lack of power also is noticeable when you are on an open road and simply want to push ahead. It can be frustrating.

Another thing that Toyota needs to address is the thin cloth covering the sunroof. It lets the heat in. Even though the heat has more or less reduced from the killer wave we saw in June and July, the green house effect can be seen when you park the car in sun. It is an issue that should be sorted.

Other than these minor issues, the Toyota Hyryder remains a very likeable car that provides a good ownership experience.

So who should buy the hybrid version? Anyone who is looking for a diesel car but does not want the added noise and clatter of the Diesel engine to trouble them should buy this instead. As a bonus you get to keep it for 15 years instead of the 10 that you do for a diesel. Overall, an excellent choice for mile munchers.