The looming possibility of further hikes in the price of fuel with the raising trend of food prices not only in Malaysia but worldwide, has forced many to re-look at their lifestyle. One of the key components in this area is of-cause the set of wheels without which it is just about impossible to get around. The existing option available of the public transportation is still much to be desired so, many motorist are taking the only other option of downgrading their choice of wheels. This is one of the key reasons for the substantial rise in the total TIV as many are just buying entry level models with a small engine capacity.

The SUV segment of the market for the last few years has seen decent growth due to its multi-utility value and its inherent status symbol feature. As of all segment, it consists of a wide variety of models from the low priced basic models to the high end ones in the likes of Cayenne etc. In the Toyota sable, prior to the launch of the Rush, the Rav4 used to enjoy decent following due to its compact dimensions and power delivery. It used to be CBU so the price was always a deterring factor although many would prefer to own one. This must have one of the important reasons for the launch of the Rush. It is a 2-wheel drive lifestyle vehicle that is aimed at the urban folk who want an SUV but rarely use it off-road. The 4-wheel drive capability is always great to have but it comes with a price too!

Based on the concept of a compact SUV, it has a strong frontal design befitting of most SUVs and is matched with a pushed-out wheel arches to make its stance bold. The projector headlamps proportions are large to make this aggressive appearance to another level. With the fog lamps coupled with flushed front bumper adds more to the outer form of this Rush. A nice touch is the rear quarter window that accents the side profile while enhancing the sportier looks. Another add-on is the chrome finish of the door handles which are sizable enough for ease in use.

This vehicle is a 7-seater with a second and third row seats which are foldable to more cargo space if required. Entry to the third row is easy as the second row is double foldable. In terms of access to the cargo bag, is through the wide side hinged door. The beige colour interior theme ensures a soft touch to the ambiance while making it lively.  The dash layout and design is simple yet practical for easy operation. A stand out is the metallic door grip which besides looking neat, comes in very handy in terms of utility value. The three-dial instrument cluster is designed to minimise and reflections so that there is always clear visibility. There are plenty of compartments and pockets to suit the needs of all customers including a sun shade holder. The steering wheel is hydraulic power assisted and leather wrapped. In the entertainment department, a 2-Din tuner, CD and MP3 units is supported by 6 speakers. The fabric seats felt firm and comfortable besides it being easy to maintain. There are also aircon vents for the second row seats and it adequately keeps the cabin decently cool.

The 1.5-litre engine is in-line DOHC 4-cylinder with VVT-i and is rated to produce the most power of 109 PS at 6000 rpm and the torque of 141 Nm at 4400 rpm. Our test involved running around town as usual and a short stint along the Kesas highway during which we reached 110 km/h at 3600 rpm, 120 km/h at 4000 rpm and 140 km/h at 4600 rpm. These stats go to show that the Rush is decent on your wallet. The transmission is 4-speed auto with Gate Shifter while the suspension for the front is MacPherson strut with coil spring and stabiliser bar. In the rear, it is 4-link with coil spring and lateral rod. The ride comfort is decent but off-road it may be pushed to the limits.

As all Toyotas, the body shell is GOA or Global Outstanding Assessment certified. It is designed to protect the occupants in front, side and even roll-over incidents. SRS airbags are available for the driver and the front passenger. To avoid injury for the driver, the steering column is collapsible. The ABS and EBD is also in place with the usual seatbelts and the Active Safety System. Disc used for the front brakes while drum is for the rear and the tyres are 215/65R16 with alloy rims. The immobiliser, auto door lock and sensor are also available besides the back-up battery for the security system.

The appeal of the Rush will not be to all but there is definitely a place for it in the market as it will serve as a basic run around vehicle besides doubling to be a weekend vehicle for just a holiday or outing. Its biggest assets are the high seating position and the seating arrangements that will suit the needs of all. It will also be not too heavy on your wallet being a 1.5-litre.    

The warranty offered is 3 years or 150,000 km which ever comes first with the colour choices Blue Metallic, Black Mica, Silver Mica Metallic and Champagne Mica Metallic. The price is RM94,888 on-the-road with insurance for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.