Toyota has taken the wraps off the third generation Rush and the compact SUV gets a brand new design. Totally revamped, the vehicle looks like a mini-Fortuner and there have been rumours about Toyota considering it for the Indian market as well.
The 2018 Rush will be first launched in Indonesia though, where it will compete with the Honda BR-V. Yes, like the BR-V, the 2018 Rush is also a 7 seat SUV. However, it features a ladder frame chassis rather than a monocoque chassis. The Rush measures 4,435 mm long, 1,695 mm wide and has a wheelbase of 2,685 mm. While the BR-V is front wheel driven, the Rush is rear wheel driven.
It will be sold as a more rugged alternative to the Honda, which is more of a soft roader. The SUV gets a 220mm ground clearance. The new Rush is powered by a 1.5 liter petrol engine that puts out 104 PS and 136 Nm. Transmission options include a 5 speed manual and a 4 speed torque converter automatic. Toyota will also offer a four wheel drive layout, and a TRD body kitted option of the Rush.
The SUV gets an impressive array of safety features that include 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, vehicle stability control, hill-hold assist, seatbelt indicators for all seven seats and a reverse parking camera. Other features offered include a tilt-adjustable steering, keyless entry, push-button start, a 7 inch infotainment system with Smartphone connectivity and 8 speakers.
If Toyota decides to bring the Rush to India, they’ll have to put a diesel engine into this SUV. The Rush can’t compete with the Maruti Vitara Brezza or the Ford Ecosport since it’s too long. So, the ideal segment for this SUV would be the Creta-Duster segment. We’ll have to wait and watch if Toyota brings this SUV to the 2018 Indian Auto Expo now that it’s been revealed internationally.
