2004 Toyota RunX 140i RS

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Photo: William McIntosh, Wheels24.co.za

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Author: Wilmer Muller

It is easy to understand why the RunX is one of South Africa's most popular cars.

This car just makes a lot of sense - its perceivable build quality is good, it has a good number of standard features, comes with a five-year service plan, and it offers an acceptable ride.

Furthermore Toyota claims to have sold more than 14 000 RunXs since its launch in early 2002. It is also car that is highly desirable in the used car market.

The entry-level RunX models, such as our test car, face fierce competition from cars such as the VW Polo, whereas the top-end models compete against the Golf, Astra and Megane.

Toyota hopes the new look car will help to maintain the RunX's competitive edge and that it will appeal even more to younger buyers.

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There is little doubt that the RunX is popular among a younger generation buyer as it has a funkier appeal than its Corolla sibling.

One of the main reasons for the RunX's face-lift is also so that it is more distinguishable from the Corolla and to give it more of its own identity.

Most noticeable in the redesign are the front and rear end treatments.

New front fenders, bonnet, bumper and grille with revised headlights and side mirrors make up the front end styling package with a three-slat grille and bumper air intake providing a pronounced sporty look to the RunX.

The rear end styling revisions are less pronounced with a new tail light cluster to update the appearance.

Interior

The RunX also scores highly when it comes to interior quality, features and ergonomics. Most of the plastics used are of good quality and the general fit and finish is good. Our test car had no rattles and felt very solid.

Although the interior is a bit on the sombre side because of the dark grey trim it seems classy and it is brightened up by the centre console's brushed aluminium accents.

The 140i RS model seats' feature quality material in a check grey trim.

Overall ergonomics are good too, with the radio and air conditioning controls within comfortable reach of the driver and easy to operate. Furthermore the 140i RS comes standard with satellite controls on the steering wheel for the audio system.

The RS specification level also includes a passenger airbag and seat belt pre-tensioner, electric side mirrors and an integrated 6-disc CD shuttle.

Interior space is good and it offers more room than a Polo but boot space is disappointing.

Driving it

The RunX 140i RS isn't necessarily the most inspiring car to drive but it is more than capable for everyday use. Under the bonnet is a 1.4-litre engine which kicks out 71 kW at 6 000 r/min while torque is 127 Nm at 4 800 r/min.

It comes with a five-speed manual gearbox which isn't the slickest transmission and feels very imprecise. The clutch seems a bit heavy too, but it is something you can get used to.

This hatchback is great in and around town thanks to its easy manoeuvrability. The car's power steering is nicely weighted and responds well to the driver's input.

Overall the car is quite competent and copes well through corners as well as on slippery surfaces. Body roll is also minimal and it won't lose is posture easily.

The engine gets noisy when you push the RunX to its limits, but, the car feels at ease at cruising speeds.

Stopping power is good too, thanks to ABS brakes.

Conclusion

The RunX is in our opinion a great buy, offering good value for your money. It is a stylish hatchback and a sensible car to buy.

It lives up to the values one expects from Toyota such as the company's reputation for building reliable vehicles.

Furthermore the RunX comes loaded with safety and comfort features.

Again Toyota has produced a highly sought-after car which has become a favourite choice for South African car buyers.

The company has a winning recipe with the RunX and the recent improvements to the model make it an even more desirable hatchback.

Pluses:

Boot space