Southeast Asian markets are suckers for seven-seater SUVs. Maybe it's because our region deals with problems like bumpy roads, traffic jams, and natural disasters on a regular basis. When you consider those factors, it shouldn't be surprising when vehicles that can conquer potholes, keep you comfy in traffic, and wade water to a reasonable degree tend to be popular. Whenever we see that an all-new one has been launched in a neighboring country, we have this habit of getting just a bit excited.
Meet the all-new Toyota Rush, which was just unveiled in Indonesia. It's a seven-seater SUV smaller than the Fortuner, and closer to something like the Honda BR-V. Its dimensions (4,435mm x 1,695mm x 1,705mm) certainly put it in that ballpark. The outside features slim headlights with LED strips, a dark chrome grille, and integrated rear LED combination lamps. The Sportivo variants get some extras like extra mouldings, front and rear underguards, and 17in alloy wheels (the regular G variants get 16in). Also included with the Sportivos is smart keyless entry.
Inside, all variants get push-button start, tilt-adjusted steering, and a reversing camera. The Sportivos get a soft-touch two-tone dashboard, a 7in touchscreen, automatic air-con with digital display, a colorful display panel, power slots in every row, and a high-end audio system. Like the BR-V, the Rush comes with a 1.5-liter engine. Toyota's Dual VVT-i mill produces 103hp and 136Nm, paired to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
Because of the ever-realiable law of regional automotive attraction, we can't help but wonder if the all-new Rush will make its way here. We can't say for sure at this point, but our car-guy spider-sense reckons that we just might see it sooner rather than later.
