Toyota Rukus 2011 review

But I reckon it's one of the best buys around.  It's based on a lengthened Corolla chassis, yet has more passenger room and cargo space than the bigger Camry.

It's powered by a Camry 2.4-litre engine, yet it punches out more kilowatts than the Camry Sportivo.  It's shaped like a brick, yet it is quieter on the road than an aerodynamic Lexus.

If Camrys are known for their practical approach to motoring, then why aren't Camry owners swarming over this model which is cheaper, roomier, more powerful, more economical, more versatile and more practical?

VALUE

The Rukus comes in three models, Build 1, 2 and 3 from $27,490 to $31,790, slotting in between Corolla and Camry prices.  Even the base model comes with a host of creature features such as six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth capability for your mobile with audio streaming to play your music, USB and 3.5mm audio input, CD player and keyless start.

The next level gains leather seats, steering wheel and gearshift knob, an even better near-arctic airconditioning system and upgraded sound system.  The only extra for the top-of-the-range car is a moonroof, which makes the airy interior even more open.

TECHNOLOGY

The Camry Sportivo engine pumps out 117kW, but the same engine is wicked up to a lively 123kW in the Rukus.  It costs less than a Sportivo ($33,990), but the Rukus only comes with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the Camry Sportivo has a choice of five-speed manual or auto.

Despite the extra power, its fuel consumption is rated at a respectably frugal 8.8 litres per 100km.  However, on test it actually beat that in town driving with a very healthy 8.3L/100km. On the highway, it sipped at a miserly 7.5L/100km - well, miserly for a 2.4-litre engine with 123kW of oomph.

SAFETY

Apart from the standard safety features of six airbags, stability and traction control and anti-skid disc brakes, it also addresses an often overlooked aspect of safety - especially in hotter climes - and that's UV exposure.  Modern aerodynamic cars often leave passengers bathing in direct UV rays.

One of the benefits of the boxy Rukus shape is that it provides more cabin shade.  This is not only good for skin cancer protection but it also means the cabin is cooler after being left locked in the sun while parked.

DRIVING

Ok, it wobbles around a bit.  It's not exactly a sports car, but it's not bad either.  However, it's surprising that Toyota gave it so much power.

It's not more than it can cope with and when the engine gets a little too excited for the wheels there is no heavy handed intervention from the stability control.  It all seems to run quite well with little fuss.  Even the seemingly underdone four-speed automatic transmission copes quite well.

Clearly it doesn't need an extra top gear because economy is good and with 224Nm of torque it doesn't need to swap cogs all that frequently, anyway.

I exected the boxy shape to relate to wind noise, but the engineers have done some clever things with the aerodynamics and it is actually quieter than even the hushed tones of a Lexus. Not even any buffeting from the big wing mirrors.

Build quality is typically high and the doors close with a sturdy thud.  The truly best part of the Rukus, though, is its roomy and flexible cabin.

The boxy shape provides plenty of room, especially around the head and shoulders, plus a convenient flat-floored cargo area.  Toyota has provided plenty of convenient and capacious storage cubbyholes around the cabin for iPods, phones, purses, drinks, etc and there is also a nice little receptacle for the key fob.

However, the unconventional dashboard has the instruments placed in the centre with a blank spot in front of the driver. At night when there are no display lights there it is particularly unnerving.  Also, the rear passengers might be sheltered from the sun and have plenty of room, but there are no air vents.

VERDICT

If you are in the market for a sensible car like a Camry and you like the funky look or can tolerate jibes from friends about the boxy shape, this is definitely worth considering.