CARVERSAL

Toyota Ruminon- "Mini Fortuner" Better Than Ertiga?

February 7th, 2025



Let’s all be plainly real here, when you hear “Mini Fortuner,” you probably picture a rugged, baby SUV ready for off-road adventures. But Toyota’s new Rumion? It’s more like the sensible cousin who shows up with a calculator and a grocery list. This MPV is priced from ₹11 lakh with a built for families who want space, reliability, and fuel efficiency without the flash. But is it worth your hard-earned cash, or just another boxy people carrier? This discussion shall break this confusion down with a much clearer understanding before the actual purchase. 

Toyota Rumion Looks: Box Fresh

Okay, the Rumion won’t turn heads like a Kia Carens. It’s boxy, no-nonsense, and kinda looks like a toaster on wheels. But hey, that’s the point! The high roofline and squared-off edges mean there’s loads of headroom, and the chunky wheel arches give it a tough-guy vibe. And the great plus here is that Toyota’s thrown in funky colours like Spunky Blue and Rustic Brown. This is simply perfect for hiding playground mud or Delhi’s dust.

Inside, it’s all about “function over fancy.” The seats are firm but comfy, the plastics are durable, and the dashboard is as simple as your grandma’s recipe book. But guess what? You won’t care when the kids spill juice everywhere. Toyota’s built this thing to survive the chaos, and honestly, that’s a win.  

Driving: Slow and Steady Always Wins

Let’s not sugarcoat it and be completely honest with each other. The Rumion’s 1.5L petrol engine (103 PS) won’t set your pulse racing. Merging onto highways? Plan ahead. But in city traffic, it’s smooth, quiet, and exactly what you need for school runs or grocery trips. The automatic gearbox is lazy (in a good way), shifting gears like it’s on a Sunday stroll.  

The CNG version? Think of it as the tortoise in the race. It’ll get you there, but don’t expect to overtake anyone. Still, with fuel prices hitting the roof, that 26.11 km/kg mileage feels like a superhero power.  

Price Tag: Why Your Wallet Will Smile

Toyota Rumion

The Rumion is cheaper than a mid-spec hatchback but packs space for seven. It’s prices are starting at ₹11 lakh. The base model gets you a 7-inch touchscreen, dual airbags, and ABS. This strong vehicle is enough to keep the family safe and entertained. Splurge a bit more, and you’ll snag automatic climate control, definitely a lifesaver in Indian summers and has a keyless entry.

But here’s the kicker of this exceptional build, the CNG variant. At a minimal price of just ₹12.5 lakh, this car sips fuel like a saint and has 26.11 km/kg of accommodation! Perfect for dads who track every rupee spent on petrol or Uber drivers clocking 200 km daily. Sure, it’s slower than the petrol version, but let’s face it you’re not really drag-racing in this thing.  

Space: Room for Everyone

When Toyota Rumion promises flexible seating, it actually means flexible seating. Slide open the doors, and the Rumion’s party trick shines. The second row slides and reclines so even your lanky teen can stretch out. But the third row? It’s strictly for kids or short trips. Adults back there will start complaining faster than you can say “Are we there yet?”  

Features: No Frills, Just the Basics

Toyota kept it simple here. 

  • You get a wireless touchscreen including options for Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay

  • Six speakers (for belting out Bollywood tunes)

  • Automatic headlights. 

Missing fancy stuff like a sunroof or ventilated seats? But honestly, when was the last time you used a sunroof in 45°C heat?  

Safety-wise, it’s got dual airbags, ABS, and stability control. Not groundbreaking, but enough to keep your crew safe. Just don’t expect 5-star Euro NCAP ratings.  

Rivals: How It Stacks Up?

  • Maruti Ertiga: Cheaper (₹8.7 lakh) and slightly better mileage, but feels plasticky. The Rumion’s Toyota badge adds peace of mind.  

  • Kia Carens: Sleeker and packed with gadgets (hello, ventilated seats!), but costs more and lacks CNG.  

  • Toyota Innova Crysta: The OG family haulier. Way pricier, but if you need space for 7 adults, it’s worth the splurge.  

The Rumion’s sweet spot? Toyota reliability without the Toyota price tag. It’s like buying a sturdy pair of shoes which is not glamorous, but they’ll last forever.  

The Good, The Bad, and The “Meh”

Love:

  • Roomy cabin that’s easy to clean (bless those stain-resistant fabrics).  

  • CNG efficiency that’ll make your petrolhead neighbour jealous.  

  • Toyota’s trusty service network—no shady workshops needed.  

Hate:

  • The third row = kids-only zone.  

  • Dashboard design stuck in 2015.  

  • Only two airbags? Come on, Toyota.  

Should You Buy It?

If you’re the kind of person who:  

  • Needs a no-nonsense family car that won’t bankrupt you.  

  • Prioritizes fuel costs over horsepower.  

  • Wants a Toyota but can’t swing an Innova.  

then yes, the Rumion’s your guy.  But if you’re dreaming of sunroof selfies or zippy highway drives, maybe check out the Kia Carens.  

Real Talk: FAQs from Buyers Like Yourself

1. Can it handle my village’s dirt roads? 

It’ll tackle potholes and speed bumps with 185 mm ground clearance. But don’t go mud-plugging this isn’t a Thar.  

2. Is the CNG variant safe?

Toyota’s packed it with gas leak detectors and reinforced fuel lines. Safer than most aftermarket CNG kits!  

3. Will it hold its resale value?

It’s a Toyota. Of course it will.  

Final Verdict

The Toyota Rumion isn’t here to wow you with gadgets or speed. It’s here to haul your family, survive chaos, and save you money. Think of it as the trusty coworker who never takes a sick day as it is reliable, predictable, and kinda boring. But in a world of skyrocketing fuel prices and “look-at-me” SUVs, boring might just be brilliant.