Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid vs BYD eMAX 7 EV

Multi-utility vehicles (MUVs) have grown in popularity due to their blend of comfort, space and practicality. Two strong contenders in this category are the BYD eMAX 7, a fully electric vehicle, and the Toyota Innova Hycross, a petrol hybrid. Let’s dive into how they compare in terms of exterior and interior features, engine/motor performance, mileage and range, running costs and overall practicality. We will also try to find out if EVs have reached the inflexion point and are comparable to ICE cars in terms of range.

Exterior Features

Feature	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Dimensions	4710 mm (L) x 1810 mm (W) x 1690 mm (H)	4755 mm (L) x 1845 mm (W) x 1785 mm (H)
Wheelbase	2800 mm	2850 mm
Wheels	17-inch alloy wheels	17 or 18-inch alloy wheels (depending on variant)
Exterior Design	Sleek headlamps, enclosed grille, LED tail lamps	Modern front grille, LED headlamps, arrow-shaped DRLs
Roof Features	Fixed panoramic glass roof	Panoramic sunroof on higher variants

Both vehicles offer modern styling with LED lighting and alloy wheels. The eMAX 7 has a more futuristic look, while the Hycross opts for a more rugged, SUV-inspired appearance. The openable panoramic sunroof on the Hycross adds an extra touch of luxury.

Interior Features

Feature	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Seating Configurations	6-seater (captain seats) or 7-seater	7-seater or 8-seater
Infotainment	12.8-inch touchscreen (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)	8 to 10.1-inch touchscreen (depending on variant)
Driver Display	12.7-inch digital display	Digital display
Interior Material	Brown leatherette upholstery	Leather upholstery on higher variants
Key Features	Wireless charging, ventilated seats, ADAS	Ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, powered driver seat

The eMAX 7 has a slight edge in technology with a larger 12.8-inch rotatable infotainment screen and wireless charging. Both offer spacious interiors, but the Hycross has the advantage of an 8-seater option, making it more versatile for larger families.

Engine/ Motor Power and Torque Output

Specification	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Motor/Engine	161 bhp (Premium), 201 bhp (Superior)	1987 cc petrol engine with 172–186 PS (Hybrid system)
Torque	310 Nm	206 Nm (Petrol engine), 250 Nm (Electric motor)
Battery/Hybrid Capacity	55.4 kWh, 71.8 kWh	1.6 kWh battery with electric motor

The BYD eMAX 7 offers more power and torque across both variants, which can provide quicker acceleration. The Innova Hycross relies on a combination of petrol and electric power, making it less torquey but still capable of smooth performance.

Mileage and Range

Specification	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Electric Range (claimed)	420 km (Premium), 530 km (Superior)	50–60% urban commute in EV mode (Hybrid)
Fuel Economy (real-world	N/A (fully electric)	16.1 km/l (highway), 13.1 km/l (city) (Hybrid)
Petrol Economy (real-world)	N/A	9.7 km/l (Petrol only variant)

The eMAX 7 shines in terms of range with up to 530 km on a single charge, making it a solid option for city and highway use. The Innova Hycross hybrid offers respectable fuel economy for its size, but the petrol-only variant struggles in terms of efficiency, particularly in city driving.

Real-World Running Cost

Parameter	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Electricity Cost (per km)	Approx. Rs 1.2–Rs 1.5 (based on a 530 km range)	N/A
Fuel Cost (per km, Hybrid)	N/A	Approx. Rs 6.25 (based on Rs 100/L and 16 km/l)
Fuel Cost (per km, Petrol)	N/A	Approx. Rs 10.3 (based on Rs 100/L and 9.7 km/l)

The BYD eMAX 7 is far cheaper to run on a daily basis due to the lower cost of electricity compared to petrol. The Innova Hycross Hybrid is more efficient than a petrol-only vehicle but can't match the running cost advantage of the fully electric eMAX 7.

Price Comparison

Vehicle	BYD eMAX 7 (Electric)	Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Price Range (Ex-Showroom)	Rs 26.90 lakh to Rs 29.90 lakh	Rs 25.97 lakh to Rs 30.98 lakh

The Toyota Innova Hycross offers a wider range of pricing, starting at a lower point for the base variants, but as you move up to the hybrid variants, it can be as expensive as the BYD eMAX 7. If you’re looking for entry-level affordability, the Hycross wins, but for electric power, the eMAX 7 is priced competitively.

Final Thoughts: Which is More Practical and Pocket-Friendly?

- Practicality: The Toyota Innova Hycross wins on versatility, offering 7 and 8-seater configurations with a hybrid powertrain that blends electric and petrol power. For those who travel long distances without access to charging stations, the Hycross may be more practical.

- Cost-Effectiveness: When it comes to day-to-day running costs, the BYD eMAX 7 is more pocket-friendly due to the lower cost of electricity versus petrol. Its longer electric range also means fewer visits to charging stations and it suits eco-conscious buyers.

In summary, if you're looking for a family-friendly, spacious and versatile MUV, the Toyota Innova Hycross might suit your needs better. But if you prioritise lower running costs and eco-friendliness, the BYD eMAX 7 is the more economical and future-proof option.

Also, read BYD eMAX 7 Electric MPV Launched at Rs 26.90 Lakh - 530 km Range, ADAS