Toyota and Suzuki have signed an agreement globally, resulting in a similar business model in India. Here, Maruti Suzuki is pretty good with entry-level products, while Toyota is more capable with its electric technology. The concept of rebadging is old, and both brands, especially Toyota, have been relying on it for portfolio expansion purposes.
Lately, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has revealed the all-new Toyota Rumion, which is nothing but a rebadged Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. The main motive here again is portfolio expansion, and with this, the new MPV is now going to sit below the Innova Crysta MPV.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Toyota Rumion has been revealed for the Indian market.
- Petrol and CNG variants will be introduced as of now.
- Minor changes and new badges will be the major highlight.
Toyota Rumion: Rebadged But Still A VFM Product
Exterior & Design
The design is kind of similar to what we have already witnessed on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. However, to differentiate, Toyota has introduced a completely new grille with a chrome frame to make the front end a little more premium. All thanks to this, the front end of the Rumion will now remind you of its elder sibling, the Innova Hycross. Taking the side profile one step forward, Toyota has also decided to offer a fresh set of alloy wheels, of course, those are diamond-cut units, on the all-new Rumion. Coming to the rear end, it is exactly the same, just like Ertiga, except for the new ‘Toyota’ and ‘Rumion’ badging.
Interior
Unlike the exterior, which has received some minor work, the interior of Rumion remains untouched. Thanks to the beige upholstery, the cabin feels airy. As specified by the brand, Toyota Rumion is available in three trim levels – S, G and V. Here, the top-end variant is offered with some modern features such as roof-mounted AC vents, connected car tech, height adjustable driver’s seat and a touchscreen infotainment system. The latter features both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Engine & Transmission
A reliable 1.5-litre K-Series engine that we have already seen on Ertiga will be available on the Rumion as well. Unlike Maruti Suzuki’s mild hybrid technology, this one gets NeoDrive tech, resulting in an overall output of 101BHP and 136Nm while being paired to a five-speed manual or a six-speed-torque converter automatic gearbox.
Then, the carmaker also confirmed that they will be launching it with CNG and the same engine above will be providing the power. However, the output in the CNG mode stands at just 88BHP and 121Nm.
Rivals and Expected Price
When launched, Toyota Rumion will lock horns against some well-known MPVs such as Kia Carens and Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus. Just like the MPV, it takes inspiration from, expect it to come with a price tag starting at Rs.9.15 Lakhs to Rs.13.75 Lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).