Toyota Innova HyCross

The Innova Hycross is a completely new model and the first Innova to be based on a monocoque platform rather than a body-on-frame. It’s also the first Innova without a diesel engine, and comes only with petrol or petrol-hybrid powertrain options.

Toyota Innova Hycross: exterior styling and dimensions

The new Innova Hycross gets SUV-like styling cues while still retaining its basic MPV shape. Like the Crysta, it gets a large glasshouse ensuring good visibility for all passengers. Dimensionally, the Innova Hycross is longer and wider than the Crysta and has a 100mm longer wheelbase.

Toyota Innova Hycross: interior and features

The Innova Hycross interior is a big step up in terms of quality and layout, and the brown and black theme further uplifts the cabin’s appeal. Some plastics lower down the dash feel a bit low rent, however, and the touchscreen feels basic. Higher variants get features like a panoramic sunroof, JBL audio, ventilated front seats, powered second-row seats and dual-zone climate control.

Toyota Innova Hycross: seating and comfort

Being a monocoque, the Innova Hycross sits lower, making ingress and egress easier. The front seats offer a good view out, and are broad with excellent cushioning. The Hycross is available as either an eight-seater or a seven-seater, the latter getting powered captain seats with fold-out calf-rests. Access to the last row is easy and the space and comfort is good enough even for adults.

Toyota Innova Hycross: engine and fuel economy

The refined 2.0 petrol-hybrid powertrain produces 186hp and is paired to Toyota’s e-Drive transmission. It offers linear acceleration and enough power, but misses the mid-range torque of a diesel. It can run for long periods in EV mode, and its ARAI rated fuel efficiency of 23.24kpl is easily achievable in the real world.

Toyota Innova Hycross: ride and handling

The monocoque architecture has infused a sense of confidence in the way the Innova Hycross drives and handles. It has a planted high-speed ride, thanks to the longer wheelbase and compared to the Crysta, it rolls and pitches less. What also helps is the electric power steering which makes manoeuvring this large MPV a breeze.

Toyota Innova Hycross: price and verdict

The new Toyota Innova Hycross once again elevates the MPV experience with its premium feel, space and comfort, but is now better equipped and more desirable too. The Hybrid powertrain is smooth, refined and quick, if not exciting, and the fuel economy benefit is huge. At Rs 18.30 lakh to Rs 28.97 lakh (ex showroom), it’s expensive, but then that was expected from a new Innova. Toyota has another winner on its hands.