THE Urban Cruiser’s 1.4-litre D-4D diesel powertrain is available with Active Torque Control AWD. Integrated with the vehicle’s other traction control systems, Active Torque Control AWD is seamlessly flexible, providing an optimised torque distribution ranging anywhere from 100:0 to 50:50 front to rear depending on driving dynamics and the prevalent road conditions.
Employing an electronically controlled coupling placed in front of the rear differential, the new AWD system affords enhanced traction performance and cornering stability. When accelerating or starting off on a low-grip surface, torque is provided to all four wheels to guarantee optimum acceleration with minimal loss of traction.
During low speed cornering, torque distribution to the rear wheels is reduced to avoid tight corner braking. When braking, the electronically controlled coupling is disengaged to optimise ABS control. Under normal cruising conditions, torque is apportioned to the rear wheels only when necessary, reducing fuel consumption.
Active Torque Control AWD is fully automated. However, via a switch on the instrument panel, the system may be locked to further improve traction in mud or snow. When locked, the system distributes maximum torque to the rear wheels. When vehicle speed exceeds 40 km/h, “Lock mode” is released and switched to “Auto mode” automatically.
The new Urban Cruiser features a high rigidity, compact, L-arm type MacPherson strut front suspension system which combines excellent ride comfort with minimal body roll and dynamic, agile handling performance.
Chosen for its compact, lightweight design offering minimal intrusion into the loadspace, the rear suspension system features a torsion beam with integral anti-roll bar. The system combines outstanding packaging efficiency with first class ride comfort and handling.
Servicing is good too. The Urban Cruiser’s 15,000 km service interval maximises component lifetime efficiency, ensuring parts such as brake pads are only changed when they have been fully used. The new urban all-roader features a maintenance-free timing chain, a low cost oil filter in which only one component has to be replaced and long-life spark plugs. The use of synthetic oil is not required, further lowering maintenance costs.
The Urban Cruiser also benefits from Toyota’s already excellent record of low repair costs. Many components have been developed specifically to reduce impact repair costs. These include headlamp mounting brackets which are designed to break on impact before the lamp itself is damaged and the large front bumper, which reduces damage to the bonnet during collisions.
See O’Mara Motors, Ballysimon Road, Tom Hogan Motors, Shannon and Brian Geary Car Sales in Rathkeale for Toyota models and test drives.
