Next-gen Toyota Innova: What’s on offer

Finally, the next generation of Toyota’s popular MPV, the Innova, has made its world premiere in Indonesia. In the latest form, the MPV not only features cosmetic upgrades and better tech but a whole lot of mechanical changes, making it a completely different model compared to its predecessor. Let’s dive deeper to know what all the next-gen Toyota Innova brings to the table.

New name 

The generation update adds a new suffix to the MPV’s name; it is now called the ‘ Kijang Innova Zenix’ in Indonesia. According to the automaker, the revamped model reflects its position which has “grown together with the Indonesian automotive industry and consumers for 45 years until now entering the electrification era.”

On the contrary, the MPV will be called ‘Innova Hycross’ in India, where it will be making its debut later this week.

New underpinnings

The new Innova also underpins a new platform. It ditched the IMV ladder frame chassis (on which the Fortuner and Hilux are also based) in favour of the TNGA: GA-C monocoque platform. With the new architecture, the longitudinal-mounted engine RWD system is replaced by a transversely-mounted drivetrain and FWD setup.

Along with that, the new underpinnings also led to the extension of the wheelbase. Here‘s a comparison of the old and new Toyota Innova dimensions - 

Specs	Toyota Innova	Toyota Innova Zenix	Difference
Length	4,735 mm	4,755 mm	Increased by 20 mm
Width	1,830 mm	1,850 mm	Increased by 20 mm
Height	1,795 mm	1,795 mm	No change
Wheelbase	2,750 mm	2,850 mm	Increased by 100 mm

New powertrains

Moving to the next big upgrade, which is a hybrid powertrain, adding electrification to this Japanese people-hauler for the first time in its history all thanks to the new platform. 

The hybrid setup comprises a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine churning out a maximum power output of 152 PS at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 187 Nm from 4,400 to 5,200 rpm. It is coupled with an electric motor which is good for making 113 PS and 205 Nm. The combined system output is rated at 186 PS. Also part of the kit is a Ni-MH battery pack, placed under the front seats.

Besides the hybrid mill, Toyota offers one more engine option with the new Innova. That’s a pure ICE 2.0-litre four-popper generating 174 PS and 205 Nm. Unfortunately, the MPV is no longer available with a diesel engine.

As for transmitting power to the front wheels, the strong hybrid mill is paired with an e-CVT while the petrol engine comes with a CVT gearbox.

New styling 

Coming to the Innova Zenix styling, the new MPV features an evolved design with an upright nose featuring a trapezoidal grille and angular LED headlights, exuding an SUV-like vibe. The bumper is also restyled with a new full-width element connecting the fog light housings. On the sides, we can find sharp creases and beefy wheel arches housing large 18-inch alloys, and at the rear, a new pair of LED combination tail lights complete the look.

The interior of the revamped Innova looks upmarket and modern thanks to a new two-tier dashboard design, a floating centre stack, two-tone upholstery, and a sheer number of advanced features.

New features

The all-new Toyota Innovo Zenix is kitted with several first-time premium features, including -

• New infotainment unit: The MPV now comes with a new free-standing 10-inch infotainment system paired with Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. A 9-inch system will be available as standard. 

• Panoramic sunroof: The Innova gets a panoramic sunroof for the first time, extending up to the second row. 

• Power-adjustable rear captain seats: Another premium feature, you can find inside the revamped Innova is power-adjustable reclining rear captain seats, which also have an Ottoman (leg rest) feature.

• Rear seat entertainment: For the entertainment of the rear passengers, Toyota has added a rear seat entertainment package to the MPV. It comprises two 10-inch touchscreen units positioned behind the front passenger seats. 

• Powered tailgate: The car also benefits from a powered tailgate system, which can be operated by a voice assistant.  

• Toyota Safety Sense: Toyota also updated the Innova safety pack by adding an ADAS safety suite to it. The advanced driver assistance pack includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward-collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic high beam.

Also part of the upgraded interior kit is a new digital driver’s display, electronic parking brake with auto hold, rear AC vents with separate controls, ambient lighting, and keyless entry with push-button start.

Price & availability

The new Innova Zenix will soon go on sale in Indonesia in five variants - G (Petrol), G Hybrid, V (Petrol), V Hybrid, and Q Hybrid, priced between IDR 419 million (RM 122k) and IDR 601 million (RM 175k). Information as to when it will hit the local shores is not yet available.

Also read: 2023 Toyota Prius finally out in the open: What’s on offer