ONE of last summer’s smash hits was when Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) finally unveiled the newest addition to its lineup—the all-new Rush. It all started with teasers in order to draw attention of what was about to debut on the local market. Since the idea of a compact seven-seater vehicle has already made its way to the mainstream, it was time for the country’s leading automaker to introduce its very own version of a revolutionized platform as a mini sport-utility vehicle (SUV).
Lined up as an entry level to the segment, this new model offers the same functionality as what the bigger types have, for the most part. Because like any pickup-based midsized SUV, this vehicle also utilizes a body-on-frame platform and a front engine/rear-wheel-drive configuration. We’d like to think of these elements as plus factors for a vehicle being marketed as an SUV. Available in two grades sporting the same engine displacement, there’s even an optional TRD kits (sold separately) to provide the sporty look you prefer. For this month’s feature, we get to test the top-of-the-line all-new Rush 1.5 G A/T version dressed in sleek Bordeaux Mica Metallic shade.
Donning a familiar look, one would ascertain that the Rush seems like the Fortuner’s baby brother. Well, that’s agreeable even if its distinctive exterior profiles suggest a more dedicated character for the vehicle itself. Highlighted up front are Toyota’s signature “keen look” coming from the slim yet stretched LED headlights with line guide (exclusive to the G grade). These are united with the chrome grille stretching downward the bumper border. Even the fog lamps with its triangular housing complemented well with the lower bumper’s arc design. Moreover, the mounting pattern of air vents and polished chin trim are pretty much SUV-like design elements. Another distinctive part of the vehicle are the aerodynamic contours on the bonnet.
The flanks, meantime, have black moldings and more flowing patterns toward the end along with the roof line slopes just like the Fortuner. There are also black trims at the bottom panels similar to the robust look of the Innova Touring Sport variant. Additionally, there are chrome linings bordering the belt line and dark window frames for accentuation that also matches the metallic roof rails. As for the equally stunning rear end, it also has curvy profiles complementing the top-mounted spoiler and bumper garnishes. The broad and overlapping tail lights, meantime, are also LED type with line guides. Supplementing the overall exterior robustness with high ground clearance are the two-toned and multi-spoke 17-inch alloys rims.
Inside is where you’ll see more of the Rush’s SUV-like character. Let alone the higher seating position with its well-laid-out dashboard and the lower center panel’s vertical layout plus the sunken center console. We also liked the amount of accents inside, such as the white trims all over with stitching designs along with the metallic and chrome finishes. Then there’s the standard 7-inch capacitive touch-screen infotainment with USB, Bluetooth connectivity, Voice Control and Weblink for iOS/Android. Audio and telephony switches are also embedded in the leather helm.
Notably, there are more cup holders in all rows plus the abundant supply of 12-volt plugs for gadget charging. What is more, the vehicle is equipped with keyless entry feature including the push start system. The comfy seats, meantime, offers a unique dark fabric material with motifs. The second-row benches provide an easy tumble method to access the third row. We were impressed on how easy it was to access the last row. But folding those will provide an ample space for cargo. The ceiling-mounted air-con vents, meantime, are more than enough to cool the last rows.
Under the hood is a reliable and fuel-efficient 1.5-liter 2NR-VE motor with Dual VVT-i petrol engine. Mated to a conventional four-speed automatic transmission, it’s a perfect match in maximizing the motor’s torque ranges. Shifting was nearly seamless as a CVT but the way it dishes out power is more linear. Low-end output is good while torque registry becomes aggressive toward the midrange. This makes the vehicle relatively quick on reaching cruising speeds on levelled roads. On ascents was when we noticed the advantage of it having a rear-wheel-drive configuration. The vehicle continued to propel without any hesitations while pressing on the gas pedal.
The gated-type shift lever also allowed us to play around gears to further squeeze more torque and aided in engine braking whenever needed. This particular engine series not only have good response but was also efficient. As usual, in every test drive, we went through routes with the worst traffic situations just to evaluate the fuel consumption. During the test period, the vehicle managed to attain a theoretical average of 9 kilometers/liter. That’s coming from mostly gridlock stricken routes. Just imagine how it’ll do on freeway runs alone.
On the road, the ride was smooth on leveled tarmacs. But the damping rigidity is something you need to take into consideration. Yes, there were tolerable bounces on certain road imperfections, but it was not that bad. Considering the damper’s level of stiffness, it was inevitable. But this level of rigidity became an advantage on hauling more passengers and cargos, particularly in terms of handling and control. Even with high ground clearance, the vehicle was nimble on turns and curves, and even demonstrated good maneuverability. Add to that the light yet responsive steering with nice and steady stiffness as the speed goes up.
Safety-wise, the multiple SRS airbags (driver, passenger, front side and curtain shield), ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Child Protection Lock, Isofix plus, the high mount LED brake lamp all came in standard. More so, all models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Start Assist and Traction Control.
The all-new Rush 1.5 G A/T is for those who prefer compact vehicle but in need of utility vehicle functionalities. Having the same price points with compact sedans out there, a seven-seater mini SUV would be a better option for the family. It’s well-dressed and can even seat seven people (including the driver), comfortably. It may have a smaller engine displacement, but matched with its rear-wheel-drive setup, it does the job done. Not to be perceived as merely an Avanza in different guise, it’s more like the Innova’s relationship to the Fortuner—same platform but entirely different in form and functionality.
Thumbs up
- Well-dressed exterior design
- Cabin layout with premium trims
- Third row seats
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Good low-end torque
Thumbs down
- Damping rigidity rebounds
- Less muffled engine noise
Specifications
- Vehicle: All-new Toyota Rush 1.5 G A/T
- Type: Mini SUV
- Engine: 1.5-liter 2NR-VE, inline four-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves with Dual VVT-i (Variable ValveTiming), petrol fed
- Maximum power: 102hp at 6,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 134N-m at 4,400rpm
- Transmission: four-speed automatic
Dimensions
- Overall length: 4,435 mm
- Overall width: 1,705 mm
- Overall height: 1,695 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,685 mm
- Tire size: 215/60 R17
- Price as tested: P1.07 million
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino