By Otsile Kadiege

Toyota’s Rumion was first introduced to the South African market back in 2021 as an attainable people mover seating up to seven passengers. The automaker’s local arm is now ready to introduce an updated version of the Rumion which now features a few cosmetic updates and upgraded safety and convenience features.

Exterior and interior updates

On the outside, the updated Rumion retains much of its design and styling. Noticeable updates for the refreshed Rumion include a black mesh grille that is larger than that of the outgoing model. A choice of seven exterior colours are on offer, namely Mystic Pearl White, Premier Liquid Silver, Azure Blue, Seal Grey Metallic, Autumn Blaze Red, Cedar Brown and Shadow Black Pearl.

Inside, the refreshed Rumion gets convenience features like a height-adjustable front seat-belt and a seat recliner for the third row in the S Grade. Toyota also added a touch display, reverse camera, cruise control and a front centre console armrest to SX models while the SX AT gets Hill Assist Control.

Safety upgrades

Safety enhancements include the adoption of VSC, seat-belt warning and rear parking sensors in the S Grade.

Powertrain

The Rumion retains its 1.5-litre K15B four-cylinder engine which delivers 77kW and 138Nm. Both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions are offered (grade-dependant). Toyota claims a fuel consumption of 6.2 l/100 km for both transmission types. Top speed is quoted as 175 and 170 km/h, for the manual and auto respectively.

Model range and pricing

Immediate upgrades are in the S and SX models while changes in the range-topping TX will only be introduced in August 2023.

Rumion 1.5 S – R296,900

Rumion 1.5 SX MT – R331,600

Rumion 1.5 SX AT – R351,700

A four-services/60 000 km service plan is standard on all Rumion models, with service intervals pegged at 12-months/15 000 km. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty also forms part of the offering.