Toyota Rush launch expected in India next year along a premium compact SUV and a Sub-compact SUV
It’s no secret that Toyota is looking to make a big impact in the Indian market with new products. In association with Suzuki, rebadged versions of Vitara Brezza and Baleno under Toyota will be launched next year – possibly as a new venture brand called ‘Toyota Compact’.
Toyota’s presence in the premium segment will also be expanded with new products as C-HR has been spotted testing already. However, another vehicle, which is also expected to be a huge deal, is the Rush.
The Japanese brand could begin testing of the premium SUV model soon in India before making its local debut as early as next year as per our sources. The Rush is a production version of the FT Concept and has an aggressive side profile along with sporty overall silhouette and front portion being equally prominent.
The highly-promising SUV draws significant design inspiration from the Daihatsu FT concept revealed at 2015 GIIAS and it aligns with styling cues from modern Toyotas. The second-gen global Toyota Rush has quad chrome slated front grille, sleek headlamps with LED DRLs, front bumper with round-shaped fog lamps, bold character lines, large sporty alloys, turn indicator integrated ORVMs, wraparound taillights, sculpted looking tailgate structure, chunky rear bumper, etc.
It has a high riding stance and because of the third row seating arrangement, it offers generous space to the occupants. It gets powered by the 1.5-litre 2NR-VE four-cylinder Dual VVT-i petrol engine making 104 PS and 136 Nm peak torque, and is paired to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox.
The interior boasts a dual-tone black and beige colour theme, alongside silver accents around gear selector area, steering wheel, centre console and AC vents. The instrument panel is backlit in white and blue colours, and a digital display for AC add upmarket feel to the SUV.
A seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with Miracast & Weblink connectivity, three adjustable headrests in middle row, black seat upholstery, six-airbags, reverse parking camera and automatic climate control are some of the premium features offered in the Rush.
Toyota could use the same 1.5-litre petrol and a diesel engine for India as well. With the premium segment raising in popularity, Toyota could utilise its strong customer base and establish its mark again.The Rush has all the ingredients to be a potent seller besides premium vehicles like Innova Crysta and Fortuner.