Toyota Rumion: The Indian MPV space has been no different with customers in this segment seeking space, comfort and reliability. Toyota, known for long lasting cars, tapped into the low cost MPV segment when it forayed in with the Rumion.
It all boils down to the kidneys themselves, with this Toyota sized up, badged and lifted wholesale with a familiar mechanical package by the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga.
In a time when family cars, which represent value without too many sacrifices, are the norm, the Rumion arrives with purpose. It’s aimed at practical-minded buyers who want flexibility, decent features and trusted after-sales support.
Toyota Rumion Exterior and Design Language
At first glance, the Rumion looks like the Ertiga, but Toyota has put its own design cues to give it a bit more premium feel. The MPV looks more distinctive with the front grille sporting honeycomb pattern with Toyota’s trademark chrome outline.
The bumper, too, has been subtly modified, sporting new fog lamp housings to distinguish it from its Maruti cousin.
While the side and rear profiles remain virtually the same as those of the Ertiga.
But Toyota has added new alloy wheel designs and badging that make it stand out in a low-key way. It’s a simple design — by no means flashy, but elegant enough for mature family buyers.
Cabin and Comfort
Inside, the design is traditional. The dashboard layout, touchscreen infotainment package, steering-mounted controls and dual-tone upholstery are practically what you’d find inside the Ertiga.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, as the layout is ergonomic, easy to use.
Seating is a strong point. The Rumion also provides three rows of seats, and all rows are reasonably roomy for normal-sized adults. The middle row slides and reclines, and even in the third row, which is best used for kids or run-to-the-store trips, there’s more usability than in many compact SUVs.
Trunk space is tight with all three rows in use but can be increased by folding the third row to the floor.
Toyota has also equipped automatic climate control, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, keyless entry, push button start and rear AC vents. The gear is not luxurious, but well-adequate for most users.
Engine and Performance
The Rumion comes with the same powertrain as the Ertiga – 1.5-litre K-series petrol engine developing 103bhp and 137 Nm of torque. It’s mated to either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
There’s also a factory-fitted CNG trim you can opt for, which sweetens the pot further for the budget-conscious family.
On the pavement, the Rumion drives exactly as you would suspect. The powerplant is smooth, refined and tuned more for economy than all-out performance. In the city, it’s easy to drive, and the automatic version ensures that urban commuting is a relaxed affair.
On the highway, it keeps up just fine, but it will take some planning to make some mid-to-highway passes, especially when loaded up.
Ride quality is a highlight. The suspension seems to be doing its job well and the MPV remains well-composed over speed breakers and potholes. Noise insulation is pretty good, though there is some engine buzz when you really get on it.
Pros:
Nothing succeeds like success, and Toyota has built itself a name for reliability and service
Roomy, practical seven-seat layout
Petrol and CNG Gives variablility and savngs
Good for long rides, very comfortable to drive.
Low cost of operation and good fuel economy
Cons:
Interior & dash design look dated next to new competition
Cramped boot with all seats in place
No diesel, which could still be the choice for some rural customers
Does not have luxury features such as sunroof or cooled seats
More or less same looking to Ertiga so can’t differentiate easily
Toyota Rumion Final Thoughts
Yeah, so the Toyota Rumion doesn’t exactly reinvent the MPV wheel, but it doesn’t have to. For families on a budget, it is a smart choice with a focus on reliability, space, and cost of ownership.
With the strong Maruti underpinning, coupled with Toyota’s good-will and badge-value and customer support, the Rumion is aimed at a specific yet substantial market, the one who looks at peace of mind and utility with strikethrough once in the frame.
If you want no-frills family transport that just plain works and doesn’t attract the attention of anybody looking for any excitement, then the quietly smart Rumion makes good sense.