Australian 2010 Toyota Rukus to Debut in 2010

Leaving the company's global problems aside - we're here talking about the huge recall Toyota is trying to deal with, the Japanese manufacturer is preparing the debut of the so-called Rukus in Australia. According to local officials cited by themotorreport.com.au, the official launch is due to happen in the first half of this year.

The name Rukus probably doesn't ring any bells to you but the car will actually be a rebadged Scion xB, also on sale in Japan as Toyota bB.

"This is a car that's designed to be different, with a boxy shape that has become iconic," Scott Thompson, Marketing Manager for Toyota Australia, told the aforementioned source. "When it's launched late in the first half of this year, it will certainly stir up the small-car market - creating a 'ruckus', if you will."

Just like the Scion, the Rukus will be offered with a wide array of customization options that would allow buyers to personalize the models. However, company officials are yet to disclose pricing and features, with more information expected to be released closer to the launch date.

"Potential customers have told us they want this style of car. We've listened and we're responding," Thompson said. "Rukus is designed to be different: it's not for everyone. It's a bit like Vegemite: it's an acquired taste."

In the US, the xB is offered with a 2.4-liter engine that produces 160 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 220 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Coupled to a manual 5-speed transmission, the engine achieves a combined fuel consumption rating of 24 mpg (9.8 L/100Km).