India’s favourite people mover, the Innova is due for a major update soon. The first set of leaked images of the Indonesian-spec model are out and initial impressions are quite positive from our side. The new Innova will be based on Toyota’s Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform that also underpins the Hilux pick-up truck and the Fortuner SUV. However, it’ll feature all-new, bolder styling, completely revamped interiors and brand new diesel engines.
Compared to the current generation, the new one’s appearance looks at least two generations ahead. The front end styling is in line with Toyota’s new design philosophy for utility vehicles. The massive front grille loves to flaunt its thick, chrome laden slats. Each of the long, wraparound headlamps feature a set of three, neatly segmented illumination elements, which include projectors and LED banks.
The sides are reminiscent of one leaked image that had surfaced earlier on, and don’t seem to be as dramatic as the front end. One distinctive element is the rear quarter glass area, which is diagonally cut by the D-pillar. The rear end still continues to elude, but we’re guessing that double layered tail-lamps, an integrated rear spoiler and a deep opening tail gate should round things up.
The most visible change at the back are the tail-lamps, which are radically different from the conservative units on the current gen model. The horizontally oriented brake light units on the new cluster taper mildly inwards with reverse light positioned on the inside. Extending downwards is a sabre like extension to the assembly which appears to be the turn indicator. A rear wiper, a high mount brake light and rear spoiler is also visible in the leaked image. The bumper is rather simplistic, though the shape of the tail-gate suggests a low loading lip for convenience.
Like the exteriors, the interiors of the new Totota Innova will be in a completely different league as compared to the current generation. The revamped cabin is highlighted by a contemporary dashboard that makes the present day dash feel a bit stone age. Combining straight lines and well contoured curves, the new dashboard design looks chic, while a choice of faux silver or faux wood inserts up the class.
The centre console hosts an all-new 7.0-inch touch-screen equipped infotainment system that will feature Bluetooth, aux and SD card support, and voice command recognition as well. Behind the new, multifunction steering wheel sits a more modern instrument cluster. The seats and rest of the interiors are yet to be seen, but rest assured that they’ll be quite premium hardware.
The Toyota will feature an all-new line up of “GD” turbo-diesel engines. Unveiled at the 2015 Vienna Motor Symposium, the new engines will replace the outgoing KD engines found in the current generation model. Similar engines have been used in the new generation Hilux and Fortuner models as well, including the updated 2016 Prado.
Available in two sizes – 2.4 litres (2GD-FTV) and 2.8 litres (1GD-FTV), the new “Economy with Superior Thermal Efficient Combustion (ESTEC)” engines will replace the 2.5 litre 2KD-FTV, which does duty in the Innova in India, and the 3.0 litre 1KD-FTV respectively.
While the larger 2.8 litre engine produces 177 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, the smaller 2.4 litre engine makes do with 160 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Both will feature common rail diesel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, and will be mated to a choice of five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions. Internationally, the new Innova will also come with a 2.0-litre petrol engine good for 137bhp and 14kgm of torque.
The new Innova will be available in three trim levels – G Type, V Type and Q Type. Features on the new Innova G will include both tilt and telescopic functions for the steering wheel, and a chilled glove-box.
The V trim level will further feature premium interior mood lighting, auto up/down power windows, automatic climate control, and an optional 8-inch touch equipped infotainment system featuring HDMI input along with Miracast Wi-Fi support along with internet browsing facility.
The top-end Q trim will add a Smart Key, wooden inserts in the cabin, push-button start, along with LED headlamps/tail-lamps and 16-inch alloy wheels on the outside. On the safety front, the Q trim will feature a total of seven airbags, vehicle stability control (VSC) and hill assist control (HAC).
When it comes to India no sooner than 2017, the new Toyota Innova will be priced much higher than the current model on sale in India. So it may not come as a surprise, if Toyota continues to sell both generations alongside. Reports suggest that replacing the current Innova will be an Innova Cross, which will be more or less the current car, featuring embellishments that will make it look like an MUV on stilts.
With lesser features than the outgoing car, the Innova Cross will be powered by the existing 2.5-liter diesel engine, mated to a 5-speed manual box. It will be priced to compete against the Honda Mobilio, Maruti Ertiga, Renault Lodgy and other upcoming products.
Images: autonetmagz and Autocar Indonesia
