By Otsile Kadiege

Following the Starlet and Urban Cruiser, the third product of the Toyota and Suzuki strategic alliance is the Toyota Rumion which is a 7-seater MPV based on the Suzuki Ertiga. The Rumion is replacing the popular Avanza which has been sold on SA for more than a decade.

Exterior design 

The front design employs a trapezoidal radiator grille, with the familiar three-horizontal-slat design and centrally-mounted Toyota ellipse. These are flanked by large tapered headlamps with a large lower apron, which houses stylised air vents and fog lamp surrounds (where fitted). The side features a prominent crease line extending from the front fender to the rear taillamps, which is joined by an asymmetric rear window. In the rear, large vertical LED taillamps with L-shaped lens extensions create a squared off look. The stylised lower bumper mimics the front design.

Entry-level Rumions are fitted with steel wheels shod with 185-65 R15 tyres while the mid-spec uses the same size with stylised hubcaps. The top-end models feature 15-inch alloy wheels and all models have a full-size spare wheel. 

The Rumion is available in 5 different colours, namely Mystic Pearl White, Azure Blue, Seal Grey Metallic, Autumn Blaze Red and Shadow Black Pearl.

Rumion grades

The Toyota Rumion will be available in three grades: the base S grade, the mid-spec SX and the range-topping TX. The S-grade features hard-wearing black exterior mirrors and radiator grille, colour-coded bumpers and high-mounted LED brake light. The interior is finished in durable textile trim with a three-spoke urethane steering wheel, and 60/40 folding second row seating. A unique feature of the cabin are the ventilated cupholders up front (allowing beverages to retain cold or heat). A 12-volt power outlet (front), electric windows, tilt-adjustable steering column and air-conditioner are also provided.

The mid-tier SX adds colour-coded door handles, colour-coded retractable exterior mirrors with power adjustment, chrome treatment for the radiator grille and a rear-window wiper. Remote central locking, a rear-window demister, additional rear 12-volt power outlet, steering switches, park distance control (PDC) and rear air-conditioner amplify the convenience factor. 

SX and TX models also boast a double-din audio system with Bluetooth, USB and Aux interfaces playing through four speakers. Toyota Connect is available across the range (even on the S-grade sold without audio) which offers telematics services, Wi-Fi hotspot (including complimentary 15Gb data) and vehicle health status. The above can be accessed via the MyToyota App on any smartphone. 

The top-spec TX model offers customers a comprehensive specification level, aimed at the family buyer. An upgrade to keyless entry with push start, chrome door handles, fog lamps and automatic air-conditioner form the starting point of the TX ‘spec’ level. The audio system too is upgraded to the touchscreen variety, which brings with it a reverse camera and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, while the speaker tally is increased to six. Wood-trim finish on the instrument panel adds an air of luxury.

Powertrain

Powering the Toyota Rumion is a 1.5-litre K15B engine which delivers 77kW and 138Nm. Both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions are offered (grade-defendant). Toyota claims a fuel consumption figure of 6.2 l/100 km for both transmission types.

Safety and Security

All grades feature driver and passenger airbags, ABS, EBD as well as ISOFIX points. An immobiliser and alarm is also included across the board. 

Pricing and warranty 

Here’s the pricing for the Toyota Rumion:

Rumion 1.5 S – R245,600

Rumion 1.5 SX MT – R273,500

Rumion 1.5 SX AT – R289,200

Rumion 1.5 TX MT – R301,600

Rumion 1.5 TX AT – R317,200

A four-services/60 000 km service plan is standard on all Rumion models, with service intervals pegged at 12-months/15 000 km. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty also forms part of the offering.