After introducing the Maruti Baleno as the Glanza and the Vitara Brezza as the Urban Cruiser, Toyota has now launched the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga as the Toyota Rumion in the South African markets recently. As we are already aware, both the manufacturers are in partnership and launching the products by rebadging. We have also seen reports of the Suzuki Ciaz turning into the Toyota Belta and being spotted at an Indian port for export. The launch of Rumion can be a strategic move by the brand because it is gearing up for its Belta car’s India launch. However, it may take some time.
When it comes to the design of the all-new MPV Rumion, it is the same Ertiga and Toyota has made only slight aesthetic changes to it. There are only two things that differentiate it from the Suzuki Ertiga: the front grille and the Toyota Emblem at the rear and other places. Otherwise, the rest of the design and features stayed the same. The front features a distinctive chrome grille with the Toyota emblem, similar to the grilles used on previous-generation Toyota Innovas in India. It has features like a multi-function steering wheel, automatic climate control, fabric seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and many more.
Moreover, it is a three-row or seven-seater MPV with plenty of interior room. The Ertiga is built on Maruti Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform, and no mechanical alterations have been made to the Toyota Rumion. It is powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that is capable of churning out 105 HP and 138 Nm of max torque. It also needs to be mentioned that the diesel variant of the Ertiga was never introduced to the market. Hence, the Rumion will also not be available with a diesel engine. While the transmission duties will be handled by a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic torque converter transmission.
