Toyota has launched the
Rumion in the
South Africa market. What is the
Rumion? In simple terms it is
Toyota’s new entrant in the
7-seat MPV space.
Rumion is pronounced “roomy on” and is based on the
Suzuki Ertiga. This was made possible by the cooperation agreement signed by
Suzuki and
Toyota, which so far has brought two other products to this country.
Toyota says the
Rumion replaces the
Avanza, which was the most popular vehicle in its segment for the years it was in this market.
Rumion is certainly roomy, with enough space for up to seven people sitting comfortably. It features three rows is seats in a 2-3-2 formation, with the two rear rows offering some foldability. Partly responsible for this is the change to a front-wheel drive format from the
Avanza’s rear-wheel drive, which brings better spatial packaging, as well as weight savings. In addition the engine is smaller, more compact, and therefore more frugal. More about it later.
For now we look at the
Rumion’s interior appointments, which appear to be solid and wide. There are three trim levels, namely
S, SX and
TX respectively. The
S is the basic spec with features like colour-coded bumpers, black exterior mirrors, ventilated cup holders, electric windows all round and air conditioning.
SX adds items like colour-coded door handles, remote central locking, park distance control and rear air conditioning. With the
TX the buyer gets automatic air conditioning, touch screen infotainment with Android Auto/ Apple Carplay, some wood finishing on the instrument panel and keyless entry among others. Buyers have five exterior paint colours to choose from, including
Azure Blue and Mystic Pearl White.
Only one engine is available for the Rumion and it is a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol with a maximum 77kW of power at 6 000rpm, and 138Nm of torque at 4 400rpm. Depending on the trim level (S, SX or TX), one can specify either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission for their vehicle. Toyota claims a top speed of between 170km/h and 175km/h for the Rumion, while average fuel consumption is said to be 6.2 litres per 100km.
The
Toyota Rumion is aimed at individuals, businesses or organisations that wish to carry people on a regular basis. With
South Africa’s infrastructure problems, people seem to be sticking to road transport more than any other. And vehicles like the
Rumion will be popular for the purpose for which it is intended.
