The Japanese automotive giant, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, is all set to make waves in the Indian automotive market with the much-anticipated launch of the Toyota Rumion, based on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. According to industry insiders, the eagerly awaited MPV is expected to make its debut around September of this year. Toyota, in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki, aims to offer Indian customers a compelling and versatile option in the MPV segment. The Rumion, already popular in markets like South Africa, aims to provide a more affordable alternative for MPV buyers in the country who desire a Toyota car.
The Toyota Rumion MPV, according to reports, will be positioned below the highly successful Innova lineup. With this new model, the company aims to capitalize on the growing demand for MPVs in the country. Reports suggest that the Rumion will receive minor styling tweaks to differentiate itself from its Maruti Suzuki counterpart, the Ertiga. These subtle design changes will ensure that the Rumion stands out in the Indian MPV market.
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On the inside, the Rumion will offer a spacious and comfortable cabin that is expected to be identical to the Ertiga. Buyers can look forward to a similarly designed dashboard layout and a comprehensive equipment list, just like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. According to sources, while the Rumion sold in South Africa features an all-black interior, it remains to be seen if the Indian model will have a similar aesthetic or retain the beige interiors found in the Ertiga.
Under the bonnet, the Rumion MPV will share its powertrain with the Maruti Ertiga. The tried-and-tested 1.5-liter petrol engine, generating 103 horsepower and 137Nm of torque, will provide ample performance for both city commutes and long drives. Customers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a smooth-shifting six-speed torque converter automatic. Additionally, Toyota is expected to introduce a CNG powertrain option for the Rumion in the near future, further expanding its appeal and catering to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives.
The strategic partnership between Maruti Suzuki India and Toyota Motor Corporation is a collaboration aimed at leveraging their strengths in the automotive industry. Toyota shares its advanced hybrid and electric vehicle technology with Maruti Suzuki, while Maruti Suzuki contributes its expertise in small car manufacturing and distribution in the Indian market. The partnership focuses on technology sharing, joint production, and expanding their product portfolio to introduce innovative vehicles. They also benefit from each other’s sales networks, with Maruti Suzuki gaining access to Toyota’s global distribution channels and Toyota utilizing Maruti Suzuki’s extensive network in India. Overall, the partnership aims to enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, and deliver value to customers.
Maruti Suzuki India and Toyota Motor Corporation’s strategic partnership is a collaborative effort to strengthen their market presence. Over the years, we have seen Toyota launch the Urban Cruiser based on the Vitara Brezza, along with the Glanza premium hatchback based on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno. In recent years, we have seen a newer iteration of the Glanza, along with the hybrid mid-size Urban Cruiser Hyryder based on the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. The latest product that came out of this collaboration is Maruti Suzuki’s first premium hybrid MPV, the Invicto. This new MPV is based on the highly popular Toyota Innova Hycross.
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