2004 Toyota RunX

The RunX features a new styling and interior trim package. From launch through July 2004 the RunX achieved sales of 14 071 units to become South Africa's number two best seller in the passenger car "C" segment behind the Corolla.

The latest RunX features a styling package introduced in line with international updates on the model but tailored to the South African market.

Most noticeable are the front and rear end treatments that now provide a greater degree of product differentiation between the Corolla sedan and the RunX hatch.

New front fenders, bonnet, bumper and grille with revised headlights and fog lights (where fitted), and side mirrors make up the front end styling package with the three-slat grille and bumper air intake providing a pronounced sport look to the RunX.

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

Along with the revised styling comes a new range of colours for the RunX with five new metallic colours in the nine colour spectrum.

There are also a number of interior revisions and a repositioning of the model range which remains at a total of six derivatives with the lower end model, the RunX 140R replaced in the range by a higher specification level RunX 140RS. Also introduced into the range is the RunX 180 RX.

All models have dark grey trim with brushed aluminium accents for the centre console.

The RT and RS specification have cloth seat covers in Donnington Check grey while the premium specification RX and RSi models have dark grey leather trim.

The RS, RX and RSi models all receive an upgrade in comfort and convenience features.

The RS specification level now includes a passenger airbag and seat belt pre-tensioner, electric side mirrors, steering wheel mounted remote controls for the audio system which includes an RDS radio and integrated 6-disc CD shuttle.

The NVH characteristic is improved and a dot matrix windscreen surround assists in providing relief from glare.

The RX and RSi models feature all of the above and now have automatic up and down actuation of the electrically operated windows on all doors.

Toyota's "Optitron" instrumentation is now featured in the RunX RX specification, as is climate control air conditioning.

More power for RSI in 2005

While the RunX RSi is included in these product revisions this high performance flagship of the range will only become available during the first quarter of 2005.

A revised 1.8 litre performance engine with VVTL-i ( ?Intelligent? Variable Valve Timing and Lift) that will optimise performance, fuel efficiency, and exhaust emissions is under development by TMC.

TMC's development programme on this engine is aimed at improving driveability by providing a flatter torque curve through revised engine mapping and design changes to the intake and exhaust systems.

The RunX has already proved itself as a stunning performer in road and competition use and the developments in process will add to driving pleasure of this Toyota performance hatch.

Pricing