Model tested: Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.3 petrol
Price as tested: £15,530
Date tested: June 2009
Road tester: Adrian Hearn

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 78%
The Urban Cruiser is part soft-roader, part compact MPV, entering a growing niche featuring the Citroen C3 Picasso and Kia Soul. Can the more expensive and less funky Urban Cruiser compete?

1. Looks
We took a shine to the Urban Cruiser instantly. It looks like a scaled-down Verso from the back and a large iQ from the front. With a set of shiny alloy wheels, it's an interesting-looking package.
8/10

2. Looks inside
As we've come to expect from Toyota, the interior consists of superb quality, robust materials. The centrepiece of the car's interior is the optional sat-nav but although classy, the interior lacks adventure.
8/10

3. Practicality
You could be forgiven for thinking the Urban Cruiser is bigger than it really is. It's hatchback-sized but still spacious inside, although the boot's 314-litre capacity is disappointing.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
There's plenty of bodyroll on corners, but no more than rivals. On the plus side, the soft suspension ensures a comfortable ride, particularly when it comes to speed bumps.
7/10

5. Performance
The 1.3-litre petrol engine gives a 0-62mph time of 12.5 seconds and a top speed of 109mph. There isn't much torque low down so we had to change down on the motorway on a few occasions.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
Toyota claims an average of 51.4mpg; we averaged 50.4mpg. The diesel averages 57.7mpg and emits 130g/km of CO2.
8/10

7. Reliability
In the last JD Power survey, Toyota was named the fourth most reliable manufacturer. The Urban Cruiser felt superbly built and we expect it to conform to Toyota's excellent record.
9/10

8. Safety
There are seven airbags and traction control; it's yet to be EuroNCAP crash tested but Toyota has a brilliant safety record. The Auris, Avensis, Yaris and IQ all have five-star ratings.
9/10

9. Equipment
With prices starting at £14,500, the Urban Cruiser is costly but not that well equipped. All models get air-conditioning, Bluetooth, electric windows and a CD player but sat-nav and leather seats are £800 apiece.
7/10

10. X-Factor
The Urban Cruiser is a good car that's practical, cheap to run and performs well dynamically. However, it's expensive compared with key rivals while its name has slightly unfortunate connotations.
7/10