New Car Reviews- Toyota Innova

The Toyota Innova rolled out into the Indian automobile market in 2005. The front of the car looks a little like that of the Corolla, while the body styling is a mix of its predecessors. The Innova, which was launched in India to give a new lease to transportation, replaced the Indian favourite cab Toyota Qualis. The Innova has ten trims, out of which seven are diesel and three are petrol versions. These are 2.5E, 7 and 8-seater; 2.0 G1, 8-seater petrol; 2.5 G1, 8-seater diesel; 2.0 G4, 8-seater petrol; 2.5 G4, 7 and 8-seater diesel; 2.0V, 8-seater petrol and 2.5 V7, 8-seater diesel. The car is feature rich; with a powerful engine, butter smooth transmission and rugged body build, it emerged as a hot cake. Innova's price is a little inappropriate for it to be a cab, reducing its competition with Tata Sumo and boosting resale of the Qualis.

Manufactured by the pioneers in engine design, this is a flawless car in terms of performance and has no competition in its class. The Innova was first manufactured and marketed in Indonesia and was called Toyota Kijang Innova, while for other countries, it is just Innova. Now it has rolled out on the Asian roads with a seven and eight passenger seating. The Innova has ten trims with a choice of two engines and an option of seven or eight-passenger seating.

The 2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol and the 2.5-litre diesel engine have proven to be efficient powerhouses for the MUV. The Innova is body-on-frame pattern, yet gives a car-like feel to cater to the needs of young car enthusiasts and big families. Though it could be only a cab in the city limits, it would definitely rule the roads in long journey cruising. In terms of size and performance, it is an upper hand over the Chevy Tavera, but would take some time to be accepted in the cost-conscious Indian market.

A brand known for its state-of-the-art engines provides a choice of two engines for its latest launch Innova, a 2-litre petrol and a 2.5-litre diesel. Both the engines are four?cylinder in-line. The petrol engine employs Toyota's variable valve timing (VVT-i) technology releasing 136 bhp and 18.6 kgm of torque. The turbocharged diesel engine has 102 bhp on the tap and achieves peak torque of 200 Nm between 1,400 and 3,400 rpm. Both the 16-valve DOHC engines are liquid cooled and are connected to the rear wheels by a buttery soft 5-speed manual transmission.

The powerplant is a potent example in the competitive market; power is plenty for the 2.2-tonne mini van. It has good passing power and gushes out ample power at mid rpm range. Press the pedal to the metal, there is a strong pull throughout the power band. The adjustable steering wheel is responsive and handles well, like that of a small car. The multi-linked rear suspension layout is well-suited to the Indian roads; it soaks imperfections on highways and bumps in the city roads.

It is a new evolution in the passenger minivans segment; transportation takes one more step in the levels of comfort. When the first set of Innova rolled on the roads, they drew plenty of oomph, leaving onlookers pondering whether it was a car or a minibus. The Indian mindset takes some time getting used to anything; now the minivan is everywhere, winning applause for its performance. It is a plenty of car for eight passengers and does not look similar to any vehicle on the Indian roads.

Though a lot has been worked on its designing, the Innova looks elegant with minimum embellishments. Its front gives an SUV-like feel with interesting sharp features like the headlamp, which synchronises with the boat-shaped grille.

The belt line is subtle and rises at the tail, giving the Innova a forward leaning today's look. It is big from out; step in and you will feel the space inside. Superior interiors, comfortable seats and Toyota's fittings will sweep you off your feet. The D-pillar is broad but does not obstruct the driver's rear view. The simple rear lift gate has been jazzed up by wedge-shaped taillights.

Standard features include air-conditioner, tilt steering column (manual), power steering, child lock, four speakers, tachometer, sun visor with ticket holder for driver, sun visor for passengers, tubeless tyres, outside body-coloured rear view mirrors (manual), Global Outstanding Assessment (GOA) body and immobiliser.