Introducing Innova was one of the smartest steps taken by Toyota back in 2005 as it replaced its best selling MUV, the Qualis. Unlike the Qualis that was all boxy, the Innova offered a SUV look to customers making it an instant success in the market. When Toyota car showcased Innova in India, it was not the one-gen hop but a complete new direction in future product design from what we had seen with the Qualis since the early 2000.
Let’s get more insights into how Toyota Innova has been making its place in the market.
Toyota Innova (first gen): Focused on Practicality
The styling of the first-gen Innova was completely different from that of the Qualis in India. The model had a SUV look and focused more on practicality than on the rugged image. While the styling of Innova 2005 was not progressive but it was in-offensive. It adopted the styling cues from Previa, Corolla, and other models from that particular era. The mono-volume design of Innova with a short-sized bonnet was aimed at maximizing the cabin room. Its 2750 mm wheelbase was a good 250 mm more than the predecessor.
The interior was also quite different in terms of styling which resembled the Corolla. It was packed with more features, faux wood on higher variants and lighter shades of upholstery. All the seating rows had enough legroom as well as the forward-facing seats. The model also had captains’ chairs for a second row in the vehicle that was priced under Rs 15 lakh. Innova crossed the 36000 unit sales mark in its first year and also received steady growth since then.
List of Updates to First-Gen Model
2005: First-gen Innova model went on sale in India
2009: Subtle updates for exterior styling
2011: BS4 engine was introduced. Innova diesel gets intercooler
2012: Introduced Facelift with square-shaped headlamps
2014: Received styling update with larger grille
Toyota Innova Crysta (second gen): Leveled up the Luxury Quotient
Upping the luxury quotient with its MPV brand, Toyota introduced the more premium Innova Crysta at the Auto Expo 2016 in New Delhi. The new model featured a new sharper design but retained the overall MPV silhouette. The updated model came with a substantial price hike over the outgoing model. Along with cosmetic upgrades, the MPV also featured new powertrain updates including two diesels and one petrol. The 2.4 diesel was available only with the manual gearbox while the 2.8 diesel was paired to a six-speed automatic. Additionally, Innova Crysta petrol had both gearbox options.
Furthermore, the Innova Crysta managed to collect sales of up to 7000 units in the very first month and by the end of February 2020, it found up to 2.7 lakh homes.
The Innova Crysta had a more upmarket design with a wider and longer look even though built on the same platform as its predecessor. In addition, it received a more well-appointed list of features like leather upholstery and electric adjustment for the front seats.
List of Updates to Second-Gen Model
January 2020: It received a BS6 emissions upgrade
November 2020: Featured mid-cycle update to the Innova Crysta
Brand New Toyota Innova Hycross is Here
Toyota finally launched the new Innova Hycross in the country. The new third generation model adopts a SUV like styling along with a new front-wheel drive monocoque chassis. The model also features more premium interiors that features a large panoramic sunroof, luxurious lounge like chairs in the second row, ventilated seats in the front row and the full suite of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 ADAS system. Like the name suggest, the Hycross gets a new 5th generation 2.0-litre TNGA hybrid powertrain that is rated for 21.1 kmpl fuel efficiency.
How Did Toyota Innova Make Success in India?
Toyota Innova was built on the same IMV platform as Toyota Hilux which is known to be the toughest car at the global level. Therefore, it could take anything rough that the Indian roads threw at it without any signs of wear. Many associate the Toyota Innova primarily for its reliability and rugged nature of the car. Even for private users, Toyota Innova has been a proven companion; not only for the city commutes but for the outstation trips as well. Its practical nature and extremely comfortable ride make it likeable by tons of users.
The upcoming SUV, Innova Hycross will feature a lot more which will eventually prove its name and carry forward the legacy of Toyota.
Read Also: Toyota Innova Crysta – Like None Other
