Since Filipinos are family-oriented people, small MPVs are a hit in the local market, where vehicles like Mitsubishi Xpander, Suzuki Ertiga, and Honda Mobilio compete. But aside from those MPV models, Filipinos are looking for SUV-style MPVs like the Toyota Rush, which comes with the same seating capacity and some elements you see in SUVs, such as body claddings and ground clearance, with the impression that the vehicle has added capability.

2022 Toyota Rush

Toyota Rush has always been one of the best in the segment based on sales. It has been around for many years and it has gained popularity among Filipino families because of its above-standard features and capabilities. But does it have what it takes to step over its competitors Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, Suzuki XL7, and Honda BR-V in the class?

Engine

If we are to compare them based on the powertrain figures, we could seldom see differences among them. All four MPV models come with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. However, there's a slight difference in their power output. The Rush produces a maximum of 102 horsepower and 134 Nm of torque output, while 103 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque in the Xpander Cross. On the other hand, Suzuki XL7 makes 103 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque maximum output, while the BR-V produces 118 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque.

Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes

When it comes to transmission, Suzuki XL7, Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, and Toyota Rush come with a four-speed automatic transmission, while a five-speed manual transmission is also available in the Rush, depending on the variant. On the other hand, the Honda BR-V gets a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). All competitors come with front ventilated discs and rear drums brake setup. All of them are also in a front-wheel-drive configuration, except for the Toyota Rush, which is in a rear-wheel-drive configuration.

Even though those figures come close to each other, they perform differently on the road. Based on car reviewers, among those four MPVs, the Suzuki SL7 has the best riding comfort. It is not as bouncy as its competitors, especially the Xpander. Because of the height and the bulk of the Xpander, the riding comfort is compromised. By which gives a bouncy ride, especially when the speed goes beyond 60 kilometers per hour. On the other hand, the Toyota Rush offers good light steering, which makes it easy to maneuver. Although Honda BR-V comes close to it, the Rush comes better, which is more noticeable when you accelerate. For the brakes, since they are all the same, you could expect the same responsiveness to the brakes. But when it comes to weighing which MPV has the most torque power, Toyota Rush is a bit ahead of the raise, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive configuration.