Toyota Rush

Features: The Toyota Rush is 4435mm long, 1695mm wide and 1705mm tall. To put those numbers into perspective, it’s 21mm shorter and 40mm narrower compared to the Honda BR-V. However, it’s taller by 39mm, and its 2685mm wheelbase is larger by 23mm when compared to the Honda. In terms of design, it looks like a baby Fortuner with its wide grille and flared wheel arches. Design highlights include all LED headlamps, a dollop of matte black cladding and two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. The cabin, like most cars from Toyota, chooses function over form. The big highlight, of course, is the fact that the Rush can seat seven in absolute comfort. The global-spec Rush gets features such as a 7-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, push-button start and an 8-speaker audio system. As far as safety is concerned, the international model gets six airbags, anti-lock brakes with EBD, vehicle stability control and hill start assist as standard.

Engine: Globally, the Rush is offered with a single engine option. There’s only a 1.5-litre petrol engine that develops 104PS of power and 136Nm of peak torque. Toyota offers a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the Rush. There’s no diesel-powered Rush just as yet.

Rivals: Renault Lodgy: The Lodgy is a pure utilitarian MPV. It’s huge on practicality and space. And if the wife kicks you out of the house, you can fit a bed in the back. It’s got punch for some fun too, but we doubt you’d be crazy enough to go corner hunting in a van. Are you? Maruti Suzuki Ertiga: It’s a solid choice in the MPV segment. Reliable mechanicals, frugal powertrains, an extensive service network, strong resale value, compliant ride and an affordable price tag keep it at the top of its game. This is one of those no-brainers.

For all those waiting for the Toyota Rush, we’ve got some bad news. Sources close to the manufacturer have confirmed that the Rush will not be launched in India anytime soon. Instead, Toyota might consider launching the C-HR compact SUV. Based on the Diahatsu Terios, the Rush is a seven-seater SUV, much like Honda’s BR-V. So, in case you’re in the market for a seven-seater, your options at the moment include the Maruti Ertiga (the new one is a couple of months away), Mahindra’s new Marazzo, the Honda BR-V as well as the Renault Lodgy.