Toyota Rumion First Drive Review

The Rumion is another product of cross-badging between the folks at Maruti Suzuki and Toyota, with the model being based on the Ertiga MPV. Thus, this one too joins the leagues of the Baleno-Glanza and Grand Vitara-Urban Cruiser Hyryder, as well as the latest model, the Fronx-based Taisor. But what are the things that make it a compelling buy over the model it is underpinned by? We find out.

Starting with the design, compared to the Ertiga, the changes are kept to a minimum, some of which include a grille inspired by the pre-facelift Innova Crysta, tweaked front bumper with triangular fog light housings, and a set of new dual-tone wheels on either side. The rear profile doesn’t get any changes at all, and the only way you could distinguish would be the Toyota logo or the nomenclature badge.

The interior of the Rumion is, again, a familiar affair too, and if you happen to hide the Toyota logo on the steering, it would be hard to tell it apart from the Ertiga. The beige upholstery and theme are carried over unchanged and help in the psychological effect of a roomier space. There are faux wood inserts to give you that premium feel, sitting not just on the dashboard, but also on the steering wheel and the door panels.

In terms of convenience, the cooled cup holders proved to be a boon at a time when the temperatures started to rise quicker than one can dispense fuel at a bunk. When not in use, these slots also double up as cubby holes to keep the mobile phone, wallet, charging cable, or the like. Then there’s the smartphone connectivity that allows you to control various functions like climate control, find my car, remote engine start/stop function, and even a tow alert.

Dominating the dash is a seven-inch screen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while the automatic climate control function meant I could concentrate more on driving than constantly adjusting the temperature and blower to suit my requirements.

While there is a fair share of space, be it the first row or the second row, the third row will be a bit tight for adults but is not unbearable - even across long journeys. Getting in the third row is a struggle in itself, even