During the South African pandemic, household budgets have been stretched to the limit. It’s no wonder that motorists are looking for the best bargains possible, such as a reasonably priced SUV. There is a wide range of affordable SUVs on the market in 2021 and the Toyota Urban Cruiser fulfils a need in the market. This SUV costs between R247 900 and R315 700.1
The Toyota Urban Cruiser1
Being almost the same as the Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Toyota’s Urban Cruiser is a joint product between Toyota and Maruti Suzuki of India. It is equipped with a grille borrowed from the Fortuner and adorned with Toyota badges everywhere.
How does the Toyota Urban Cruiser differ from the Suzuki Vitara Brezza?1
Not only is the Suzuki Vitara Brezza slightly cheaper, but it’s also better furnished compared to the Urban Cruiser. Both have touchscreen information systems, electric windows, and electric mirrors, but the cheapest Suzuki also has automatic climate control, a reverse camera, and a height-adjustable seat. On the other hand, the Toyota gains by having standard LED headlights and a push-button start.
Any differences between Toyota’s and Suzuki’s top models?1
There are no significant differences between the Toyota XR and Suzuki GLX. Both possess auto headlights and wipers, cruise control, cooled glovebox, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a leather-covered steering wheel.
How do Toyota’s and Suzuki’s warranty and service plans compare?1
This is where Toyota lags behind, providing only a 3-year warranty (or 100 000 km) and a 3-service (45 000 km) plan. On the other hand, Suzuki offers a 5-year or 200 000 km warranty and a four-year (60 000 km) service plan.
Toyota has the advantage of providing a huge service network1
Toyota’s network covers 220 dealerships in South Africa compared with Suzuki’s meagre 61. This is where motorists may consider the Toyota model if they live in a remote rural area.
The powertrain of both cars is identical1
Both cars have a normally aspirated, 1.5-litre petrol engine, with a power output of 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque which is transferred to the front wheels. The power output may not be that great, but then the SUVs make up for it with a low kerb weight of 1130 kg.
Disclaimer
Because car insurance is so complex, this article can only be informative at best. Thus, if you want to buy car insurance, it is best to seek the professional guidance of a certified financial adviser.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser goes for an attractive price, but this SUV also needs adequate car insurance cover to shield you from any crippling financial loss. Also, don’t forget that you are required by law to purchase comprehensive car insurance if your new Urban Cruiser is to be financed by a bank. So, are you looking to get car insurance for your future new car? Get affordable, comprehensive car insurance with unique benefits like fixed premiums* and a reduce to zero excess* with Prime South Africa. T and Cs apply.
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