New compact hatchback

No, this is not the Scion xB but it is its sibling, the new Toyota Corolla Rumion. The boxy car will join the Corolla ranks in Japan starting today. Toyota is hoping to sell 3,500 units per month with prices starting at yen 1,680,000 (just over EURO 10,000 or USD 14,300) ranging all the way up to yen 2,310,000 (just under EURO 14,000 or USD 21,000).

The simple, box-like styling (Toyota calls the stylign theme 'relax in style') creates a unique yet simple interior space with a very specific exterior presence. The scion xB is in its second generation in the States and is returning 'home' to win the hearts of the Japanese. The high beltline is meant to give the occupants a feeling of being surrounded by comfort.

The Corolla Rumion is powered by either a 1.5-liter VVT-i engine or 1.8-liter Dual VVT-I (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) engine. The 1.5 liter engine emits 143 g/km of CO2 (20% under Japanese regulations) and the 1.8 liter emits 151g/km of CO2 (beating national standards by 10%). You can expect all the usual safety features like SRS airbags, WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) front seats, an advanced GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) collision-safety body, Eco Driving Indicator lights, Super CVT-i (Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) and Smart Entry & Start System among others.

Press Release

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the nationwide launch in Japan of the "Corolla Rumion", a new compact hatchback.

The Corolla Rumion, designed under the theme of "Relax in Style", maintains the basic performance for which the Corolla name is known, while adopting a new appeal that resonates with drivers who value individuality and youthfulness.

The Corolla Rumion features simple, box-like styling that expresses familiarity and composure while creating a unique presence. A new compact vehicle with a roomy interior that envelops passengers in comfort, the Corolla Rumion offers a relaxing, smooth and pleasant ride to all occupants. Designed for individualized use, it is suitable for a wide variety of lifestyles.

The boxy silhouette formed from vertical and horizontal lines and unique yet simple interior and exterior designs emphasizes individuality. The roomy interior, designed for numerous applications, has a high beltline to create a feeling of being surrounded by comfort. In addition, the 1.5-liter and 1.8-liter engines and rigid body provide outstanding cruising performance and environmental and safety performance at the top levels of its class.