Perodua Aruz vs Toyota Rush: 7-Seater Family SUV Battle

For Malaysian families seeking an affordable 7-seater SUV, the Perodua Aruz and Toyota Rush represent the most accessible options in the market. Both share the same platform but offer different value propositions.

Platform and Build Quality

Both vehicles are built on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform, ensuring similar structural integrity and safety standards. However, there are key differences in execution and features.

Shared Specifications

• Platform: Daihatsu DNGA
• Length: 4,435 mm
• Width: 1,695 mm
• Height: 1,705 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,685 mm

Engine and Performance

Perodua Aruz

• Engine: 1.5L Dual VVT-i
• Power: 105 PS at 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 136 Nm at 4,200 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic
• Fuel consumption: 7.3 L/100km

Toyota Rush

• Engine: 1.5L Dual VVT-i (same as Aruz)
• Power: 105 PS at 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 136 Nm at 4,200 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic
• Fuel consumption: 7.3 L/100km

Interior Features and Comfort

Perodua Aruz

• Seating: 2+3+2 configuration
• Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen
• Air conditioning: Manual single-zone
• USB ports: 2 front, 2 rear
• Cup holders: 8 throughout cabin

Toyota Rush

• Seating: 2+3+2 configuration
• Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration
• Air conditioning: Automatic dual-zone climate control
• USB ports: 4 strategically placed
• Premium interior trim: Soft-touch materials

Safety Features

Perodua Aruz

• Airbags: 2 (driver and passenger)
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
• EBD: Electronic Brake Distribution
• VSC: Vehicle Stability Control
• ISOFIX: Child seat anchors

Toyota Rush

• Airbags: 2 (driver and passenger)
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
• EBD: Electronic Brake Distribution
• VSC: Vehicle Stability Control
• ISOFIX: Child seat anchors
• Additional: Pre-collision warning system

Pricing and Value

Ownership Costs

Perodua Aruz

• Service interval: 10,000 km
• Warranty: 5 years/150,000 km
• Parts availability: Excellent (Perodua network)
• Service cost: Lower due to Perodua's affordable parts

Toyota Rush

• Service interval: 10,000 km
• Warranty: 5 years unlimited mileage
• Parts availability: Good (Toyota network)
• Service cost: Slightly higher but competitive

Practicality Assessment

Third Row Access

Both vehicles offer similar third-row access through tumble-forward second-row seats. The third row is best suited for children or short adults on brief journeys.

Cargo Space

• All seats up: 213 liters
• Third row folded: 514 liters
• Second and third rows folded: 1,268 liters

Driving Experience

Both vehicles offer similar driving dynamics due to their shared platform:

• City driving: Adequate power for urban conditions
• Highway cruising: Comfortable at 90-110 km/h
• Fuel efficiency: Reasonable for a 7-seater SUV
• Handling: Stable but not sporty

Final Recommendation

Choose Perodua Aruz if:

• Budget is the primary consideration
• You want the lowest ownership costs
• Basic features meet your family's needs
• Supporting local automotive industry is important

Choose Toyota Rush if:

• You can stretch the budget for better features
• Dual-zone climate control is important
• Brand prestige and resale value matter
• You prefer Toyota's service network

Both vehicles serve the same fundamental purpose of affordable 7-seater transportation, with the choice ultimately coming down to budget and feature preferences.