Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) continues its upward trajectory in the Indian automotive market, reporting a robust 22% year-over-year (YoY) sales growth in May 2025 with 29,280 units sold domestically. This consistent performance can be attributed to the sustained popularity of models like the Innova and Fortuner, alongside the successful integration of badge-engineered vehicles into their lineup.
Leading the charge for Toyota last month was the Innova range, but the most impressive growth story came from the Urban Cruiser Hyryder. This midsize SUV achieved a remarkable 94% YoY sales surge, selling 7,573 units in May 2025 compared to 3,906 units in the same period last year. Its month-over-month (MoM) sales also saw a significant boost of 63%.
Hyryder’s Victory Over Grand Vitara
The Toyota Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara share a common foundation, utilizing the same platform, features, and mechanical components. However, in May 2025, the Hyryder convincingly outsold its counterpart. The Grand Vitara recorded only 5,197 units, a substantial 47% decline from its 9,736 units sold in May 2024. Furthermore, the Grand Vitara’s sales figures plummeted by 27% compared to April 2025, highlighting a challenging month for the Maruti Suzuki offering.
Enhanced Hyryder: Safety and Feature Upgrades Drive Demand
Toyota’s proactive approach to updating the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has undoubtedly contributed to its recent success. A significant enhancement is the standard inclusion of six airbags across all variants, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to safety. Beyond this, the SUV has received structural reinforcements to further improve occupant protection in potential crash scenarios.
Drivers of automatic variants will appreciate the new Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), adding to convenience. Under the hood, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version now boasts a new six-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous five-speed manual setup, offering a more refined driving experience.
The updated Hyryder also pampers occupants with a range of premium features. Top-end trims now come equipped with an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat and ventilated front seats, ensuring comfort on longer journeys. Rear passengers aren’t left out, benefiting from manually retractable sunshades on the doors. Other notable interior upgrades include a revised speedometer, enhanced ambient lighting, a dedicated Air Quality Index display, LED reading and spot lamps, and convenient Type-C fast-charging ports.
These strategic updates, focusing on both safety and luxury, have clearly resonated with consumers, allowing the Toyota Hyryder to not only beat its segment rival but also achieve impressive growth within Toyota’s own portfolio.
What do you think about Toyota’s strategy of equipping the Hyryder with more premium features? Do you believe this will help it maintain its lead in the competitive midsize SUV segment?
