Toyota has added a fresh new model to its local line-up. It’s called the Rush, and the sporty crossover sits above the aging Avanza.
The Indonesian-built Rush has been nicknamed a 'mini-Fortuner', and will go head-to-head with Honda's BR-V. Size-wise, its 4435mm long, 1695mm wide and 1705mm high. Further highlighting its mini-Fortuner credentials is its 4x4-rivalling 600mm wading depth, as well as its 31-degree approach and 26.5-degree departure angle, which will make it reasonably capable off the beaten track. And with 220mm of ground clearance, expect good rough-road damping despite riding on 17-inch alloys.
With a 2685mm wheelbase – 30mm longer than the Avanza – there is ample space inside the Rush. South Africa, only gets a 5-seater variant – whereas Indonesia gets a 7-seater layout of the same model. As a result, our SA-spec Rush now boasts an impressive 609 litres of loading space with all seats in an upright position.
On the outside, the styling of the Rush is highlighted by large chrome slatted grille, LED headlamps and DRLs, aggressively sculpted bumpers and even power bulges on the bonnet. Up front is a skid-plate hinting at its soft-roader capabilities, while there are matching black roof rails and even an integrated rear spoiler.
Specification levels are very impressive, as it comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility) equipped with a reverse camera with rear parking sensors and satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist and vehicle stability control. There is also a push button starter and keyless entry, whilst six airbags (driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags) are standard fitment.
There is only one motor on offer – a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol motor that produces 77kw and 137nm, and this is available with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, that sends power to the rear wheels. The manual is expected to consume 6.6L/100kms, while the automatic is claimed to sip unleaded at a rate of 6.7L/100kms, with CO2 figures of 156g/km and 158 g/km respectively.
The Rush is available in 5 exterior colours - white, silver, ruby metallic, bronze metallic and black – and is priced at R299 900 for the manual, whilst the automatic is priced at R313 500.
A six-services or 90 000km service plan is standard, complimented by a 3-year/100 000km warranty. Service intervals are 15 000km.
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Rush cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Rush starts from around R389,900 for the manual transmission version, while the automatic variant will set you back approximately R419,900, making it a solid mid-range crossover option.
Q: Is the Toyota Rush worth buying compared to the Honda BR-V?
The Toyota Rush offers better ground clearance at 220mm versus the BR-V's 201mm, plus it comes with more standard kit including dual-zone climate control and six airbags, making it the stronger choice for South African conditions.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Toyota Rush 1.5-litre engine?
The Toyota Rush's 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine delivers around 7.2 litres per 100km in combined driving conditions, which is reasonable for a crossover of this size but not class-leading.
Q: Does the Toyota Rush have enough power for highway driving?
With 77kW and 137Nm from its 1.5-litre engine, the Rush feels adequate around town but can struggle on steep highway inclines, especially with the 4-speed automatic that feels a bit dated compared to modern CVT or 6-speed options.
Q: What warranty does Toyota offer on the Rush in South Africa?
Toyota backs the Rush with their standard 3-year/100,000km warranty plus a 5-year/90,000km service plan, giving you decent peace of mind for your investment.
Should You Buy It?
The best compact crossover under R450,000 in South Africa is the Toyota Rush, and yes, you should definitely consider buying one. At R389,900 for the manual and R419,900 for the automatic, it offers excellent value with its impressive 609-litre boot space, 220mm ground clearance, and comprehensive standard equipment including six airbags and Apple CarPlay. While the 77kW engine isn't the most powerful in class, Toyota's legendary reliability and the Rush's practical design make it a smart buy for families who need space and capability without breaking the bank. The only real downside is that 4-speed automatic, so if you're not fussed about changing gears yourself, grab the manual and save yourself R30,000.
