Toyota Rukus Build 3 2011 review

WE turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars, as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. Ultimately, however, there is only one question that really needs answering ... would you buy one?

WHAT IS IT?

Hmmm? Toyota's idea of funky and it ain't half bad, believe it or not. Below the skin beats the 2.4-litre heart of a Camry, but in a slightly different state of tune.

HOW MUCH?

Rukus prices start at $27,490, with buyers able to choose from three equipment grades known as Build 1, Build 2 and Build 3 _ our top of the line Build 3 is $31,790.

WHAT ARE THE COMPETITORS?

In terms of design probably the Kia Soul, but the Soul is slightly smaller and doesn't offer the same sought of power. After that, it will probably appeal to SUV buyers and those just looking for something different.

WHAT'S UNDER THE BONNET?

2.4-litre four cylinder petrol engine with 123kW of power and 224Nm of torque. Puts out slightly more power and torque than the Camry equivalent. Only gets a 4-speed auto compared with Camry's 5-speed.

HOW DOES IT GO?

Like a rocket. Punch the accelerator at the lights and it takes off like a scalded cat with a brief spin of the front wheels.

IS IT ECONOMICAL?

It's rated at 8.8 litres/100km but we wee getting 9.3 mainly travelling up and down the motorway. Guess that's the price you pay for the performance.

IS IT `GREEN?'

Gets 3.5 stars out of 5 from the Governnment's Green Guide, with a greenhouse rating of 6/10, air pollution rating 6.5/10 and CO2 emissions of 208g/km. The hybrid Prius sets the pace with 5 stars.

IS IT SAFE?

Gets 4 out of 5 stars. Comes with six airbags, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution as well as electronic traction and stability control.

IS IT COMFORTABLE?

Not armchair comfortable but not bad all the same. The digital speedo has been moved to the middle of the dash and takes some getting used to. To the left of it is the tacho, followed by the fuel and temperature gauges in order of priority.

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Easy to drive and short front and rear overhangs make it easy to park. Higher driving position is not unlike an SUV. Computer lacks a touchscreen which makes the controls fiddly. Steering wheel audio controls need to be illuminated.

IS IT VALUE FOR MONEY?

Build 3 gets leather and climate air plus a sunroof, Bluetooth, keyless start and a 9-speaker audio including a subwoofer.

WOULD WE BUY ONE?

Certainly appealing. Punchy performance. Easy to park and drive. Smallish luggage area and space saver spare are turnoffs as is the 4-speed auto. A 5-speed would do wonders for the economy.