Launched in August 2023, the Toyota Rumion marked the brand’s entry into the competitive 7-seater MUV segment in India. This much-anticipated model quickly grabbed attention with its spacious interiors, familiar Toyota badge, and partnership with Suzuki. But does the Rumion live up to the hype? Let’s delve into its key aspects and see if it’s a worthy contender in the market.
Design and Exteriors:
The Rumion boasts a stylish exterior, borrowing design cues from its bigger sibling, the Innova Crysta. The prominent grille with a chrome finish and sleek headlamps lend a sophisticated air. However, similarities with the Suzuki Ertiga, with whom it shares a platform, are undeniable, especially in the side and rear profiles. Overall, the Rumion offers a clean and contemporary design that blends in well with the urban landscape.
Interiors and Space:
Step inside the Rumion, and you’re greeted by a spacious and comfortable cabin. The beige color scheme and fabric upholstery create a warm and inviting ambiance. The highlight is the ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it a comfortable choice for even tall passengers. The middle row slides and reclines, while the third-row seats, though slightly cramped, offer decent space for occasional use. Notably, the boot space is sufficient for everyday luggage, expanding significantly with the third-row seats folded.
Performance and Engine:
The Rumion comes equipped with a single 1.5L petrol engine delivering 102 bhp and 135 Nm of torque. Available in both manual and automatic transmission options, it offers a smooth and refined driving experience for city commutes. While not particularly powerful, the engine prioritizes fuel efficiency, delivering a claimed mileage of 20.11 to 20.51 kmpl for the petrol variant. Additionally, a CNG option is offered, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers, claiming an impressive 26.11 km/kg mileage.
Features and Safety:
The Rumion packs a decent punch in terms of features, offering a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, automatic climate control, keyless entry, and push-button start. However, higher variants boast features like cruise control, a reverse parking camera, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Safety-wise, the Rumion comes equipped with dual airbags in the base variant, with higher variants offering up to four airbags. While crash test ratings are unavailable, Toyota’s reputation for safety inspires confidence.
Price and Competition:
The Rumion starts at an attractive price of ₹10.44 lakh, making it a compelling option in the segment. Key competitors include the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Kia Carens, Mahindra Bolero Neo, and Renault Triber. Each offers unique strengths, but the Rumion’s brand image, spacious interiors, and fuel efficiency give it a competitive edge.
The Verdict:
The Toyota Rumion isn’t a revolutionary vehicle, but it plays its cards well. It offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, decent performance, and good fuel efficiency, all at a competitive price point. If you’re looking for a reliable and practical 7-seater MUV without breaking the bank, the Rumion is definitely worth considering. However, if you prioritize features or a more powerful engine, other options might be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your individual needs and preferences
