Toyota Innova Review

The Innova's range has no less than eight models on offer and you can specify the Toyota to somewhat similar levels too.

DESIGN AND STYLE
The face-lifted Innova with an all-new grille and a new bumper as well that sport Corolla and Camry styling elements looks good. These changes are minor but they dramatically improve the looks of this MPV. Built on a 'C-in-C' ladder frame, the Innova clearly has van proportions which even the sloping roof, curved D-pillar and mildly flared wheel arches can't disguise.

The Innova has coil springs on all four wheels, independent wishbones up front and a non-independent four-link rear setup along with a low centre of gravity, all of which point to good ride and handling. Large bushes have also been used to damp additional vibrations. Build quality in the Innova is superb and a generation ahead of the others in its class.

CABIN
If the Innova is super comfortable, it's only for the passengers sitting on the third row. You can slide the middle row forward, make more room for passengers in the rear, and the seatback is not as vertical either. Where the Innova is really brilliant is the fit and finish. The precision with which the parts are machined, the manner in which they all fit perfectly together, and the absence of rough edges place the Japanese car's interiors a generation or two ahead of its closest rivals. The seats slip forward with fluid precision and minimum effort, the lever that unlocks the seat rack and allows it to flip it or slide on its rails is perfectly sprung, and the plastic quality levels are Corolla-good.

ENGINE
The Innova is powered by the tried-and-tested D4-D 2.5-litre turbo-diesel generating 102bhp. Off the line, the Innova is very responsive with little turbo-lag and tugs you forward from as low as 1200rpm. The long-throw gearbox is light and direct and the gear ratios are perfectly matched to the engine's power and torque characteristics to complement the Innova's excellent driveability.

As a result, ambling in city traffic is a breeze, you rarely feel a lack of power or the need to downshift. In terms of refinement, the D-4D engine isn't a quantum leap ahead of its rivals. There is that unmistakable clatter of diesel in the cabin, but it is well damped and muted.

RIDE AND HANDLING
The Innova's low stance and low weight give it an advantage even before it turns a wheel. Toyota's engineering expertise has ensured that it drives as well as many saloons. The Innova's brakes work well to bring the car to a halt while cruising through city streets as well as when zipping along on the highway. Out on the highway where most MPVs don't fare too well, the Innova is superb. Body roll is well contained.

The steering is well-weighted and gives superb feedback. You don't have to tiptoe through corners or slow down for them, like you would in other cars in this class. And the decent grip and handling aren't at the expense of ride quality.

Low speed rideis quite cushioned and is not very jarring. What's truly impressive is the Innova's flat and consistent poise with none of the heaving and pitching which makes travelling in it all that more comfortable.

Fact file  Fuel Diesel Type 2494 cc,4 cylinders Installation Front, transverse Gearbox 5-speed manual Power 102bhp Torque 20.4 kgm Tyres 205/65 R15, tubeless