Toyota Rumion : Toyota Rumion is a name that most Indian car buyers may not have heard of but under the skin is something that most of us are already familiar with.
First, because it’s built on the proven Maruti Suzuki Ertiga’s platform, engine and a lot of features. The Rumion is in fact Toyota’s interpretation of the Ertiga and it is used to enlarge its lineup with a compact MPV.
But is there anything new the Rumion can add to the mix? Is it a better pick over its Maruti blood cousin? We’ll delve into what this family-friendly MPV has to offer — and where it comes up short.
Design: Familiar, Yet Classy
The Toyota Rumion may appear to resemble the Ertiga when viewed at first sight, though there are some differences to make it distict from the Ertiga. The front grille is pure Toyota with negligible chrome work that gives the vehicle a hint of elegance.
There is a slightly fiddled with bumper now and new Toyota badges all around replacing the Suzuki ones. Other than that, the profile, taillights, and alloy wheels are much the same.
This isn’t a bold or flashy car, but it has a clean, no-nonsense look that will likely appeal to families in search of practicality more than drama.
Interior: Roomy and Simple
Hop in, and it’s all business as usual — especially if you’ve been in an Ertiga. The cabin is refreshingly spacious and open, done in a light beige upholstery with wood-finish trims adding a dash of class.
It’s plain, intuitive, and designed to be functional. There is a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, steering mounted controls and rear AC vents.
Where the Rumion stands out is in its cabin space. It’s big, with seating for seven in three rows, perfect for large families.
The second-row seats provide decent legroom, while the third row, though better suited to kids or short trips, can accommodate adults in a pinch.
Under The Hood: Solid and Smooth
The engine is a 1.5 liter K series petrol engine with 103 PS and 137 Nm of torque. It’s the same engine as the Ertiga and Ciaz and it has a solid reputation for reliability and smoothness.
You do get the option between a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
Though it’s not the most powerful engine in the class, it’s peppy around town and cruises happily on the highway.
Toyota also has a CNG model as well, and that’s a lot better on fuel economy and a good choice for those looking to keep operating costs low.
Ride Quality and Handling
DriveThe Rumion takes Indian road conditions in its stride. The suspension system is calibrated for comfort, gliding over potholes and speed bumps with aplomb.
It’s not very sporty, but it is stable and predictable — the exact qualities which families want in a people-mover.
The steering is light and makes traffic driving a breeze, and the turning circle is tight enough for urban maneuvering.
Long drives? No problem — the seats have good padding, and the cabin remains reasonably quiet.
Safety and Features
Toyota provides Rumion with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard.
Although it may not boast state-of-the-art ADAS tech or six airbags like some of its competitors, it ticks all the main safety boxes with a high degree of competence.
Pros
Large and family-friendly interior
Tried and Tested frugal Engine (petrol + CNG variants offered)
Toyota’s reliable brand worth and cash hand off help
Comfortable ride quality
Easy to drive and park in the city
Cons
Nothing much else to differentiate design wise from the Ertiga
Premium features such as sunroof and digital cluster is missing
Not much room for adults in the third row
Lesser safety features on lower variants
Fairly unimpressive engine performance at full throttle
Toyota Rumion: Final Verdict
The Toyota Rumion is not an groundbreaking product, and it doesn’t need to be. It’s an intelligent, sensible and good-value MPV that’s supported by Toyota.
And for big families, daily commuters and fleet buyers who want space and reliability without that fatal grip on the hip pocket, then the Rumion is an excellent box ticker.
It’s a familiar package with some new clothes on — but sometimes, that’s just the ticket.
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