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.
Luxry 2011 Toyota Matrix In Golden Brown
2011 Toyota Matrix Elegant Exterior
Silver Elegant 2011 Toyota Matrix
Every 2011 Toyota Matrix will have the brake-override system, which is designed to cut engine power if the accelerator and brake pedals are applied simultaneously.
2011 Toyota Matrix Speedometer View
The 2011 Toyota Matrix will likely receive slight modifications to its grille and front fascia, minor changes to its taillamps, and perhaps new wheel designs. Revisions to passenger-compartment textures and graphics would be welcome, too.
2011 Toyota Matrix Interior
2011 Toyota Matrix Lighting
2011 Toyota Matrix Baggage View
The 2011 Toyota Matrix would catch the competition and gain credibility with younger buyers by finally incorporating USB iPod connectivity instead of just an auxiliary jack. Matrix is otherwise pretty up to date. It’s available with Bluetooth phone linking and a navigation system with real-time traffic information.
