Hot Toyota Rukus

Arriving Down Under in May 2010 the Toyota Rukus is refreshingly simple, we're fans of the stylised box like design ensuring it stands out from the current automobile design trend of curves and sloping lines. And whilst it is only slightly longer than a Corolla hatchback (25mm to be exact), it is significantly more roomy inside. A worthy competitor to the Kia Soul and a number of other ‘box on wheels’ urban cars that have become a fashion statement in cities such as Tokyo over the last decade.

Expressive Hot Toyota Rukus

Hot Elegant Toyota Rukus In Silver Color

Toyota Rukus Engine Detail

Original, funky dashboard design with lots of broad horizontal lines (the dash is layered) combined with a circular theme for the driver instrument gauges and the ventilation and heating controls. We’re fans of the ‘Smart Start’ button (instead of an old school ignition key), the typical high Toyota level of fit AND finish and the excellent amount of storage space and cupholders scattered around the cabin. The entry level ‘Build 1’ grade features four storage compartments and ‘Build 2’ and ‘Build 3’ grades add a deeper centre console box (with a sliding armrest) and an additional storage compartment for rear seat passengers. Fantastic amounts of front and rear head and shoulder room and rear seat legroom is surprisingly good. Cargo capacity with the split folding rear seats folded down is an excellent 1,331 litres and additionally the front seats recline fully, perfect for carrying extra long loads (or taking a power nap?!).

While the similar sized Corolla is fitted with a 1.8L engine and the Kia Soul (the Toyota Rukus’ closest competitor) uses a smaller again 1.6L (in petrol or diesel) the Rukus is fitted with a larger and more powerful 2.4L petrol four cylinder (generating 123kW of power and 224Nm of torque). On the road this translates to more than enough oomph, initial take off is surprisingly zippy even with the four speed Automatic gearbox.

Toyota Rukus Modification With Hot Pink Background

Hot Toyota Rukus With Unique Style

The Rukus sits relatively low, (this definitely isn’t a high riding SUV) so even though it looks like a big box it by no means handles like one - it's not to different from a Corolla, which has just above average dynamics for a small car. The suspension handles Australia’s diverse road conditions respectably.