Toyota Innova - Know the Philippines most loved MPV inside-out

Toyota is known to manufacture reliable, efficient, and affordable cars. And Innova is one of its star kids that’s serving the Philippines market since 2004. Quite a long period, we must say!

With fourteen-years of undisputed existence, Innova definitely possesses the qualities of a good car that helped it attain a commendable market share in the category. We aren’t kidding, if one checks the annual or even the quarterly auto sales report of the Philippines market, Toyota would be seen sitting on the peak with Innova responsible for its major sales. It is for the same reason, why Toyota never delayed in giving Innova a facelift or new look altogether. Competing against the recently launched Toyota Rush, and all-new Xpander, Toyota Innova has never been looked down upon by buyers.

If you are a prospective buyer, who is a family man looking for a family car, then the MPV-segment will offer you just the right deal. Over the time, the Innova has evolved a lot, be it in the sense of design, performance, or features. Some people appreciate these changes, and at the same time you can find a bunch saying ‘it’s not like the Innova it used to be’.

Thus leaving buyers confused, but we say don’t go by anyone's words, go check-out the car for yourself, take a few test drives, and then come to a conclusion.

However, until you step outside, here is all you need to know about the Toyota Innova.

Body-type - Toyota Innova is an MPV, i.e. a multi-utility vehicle. These type of cars are best for big families and can seat seven adults at a time. With a sufficient boot space, they are good for road trips. However, in heavy traffic areas and tight parking conditions, they may not be the best vehicle to commute.

Fuel - Toyota offers Innova in both petrol and diesel configuration in the Philippines. Thus, giving consumers a choice to pick what suits their needs best.

Engine - The Innova is available in two-engine choices. First, is a gas powered 2.0-litre 4-cylinder double overhead camshaft mill that produces a maximum power of 136 PS at 5,600 rpm along with a peak torque of 183 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Second is the diesel energised 2.8-litre 4-cylinder double overhead camshaft engine with Variable Nozzle Turbocharger with Intercooler. This one is the more powerful option with a maximum output of 171 PS at 3,400 rpm and 369 Nm at 1,200 to 3,400 rpm of torque.

Transmission - Initially, Toyota never tuned Innova with an automatic transmission system, but with the last major update, AT was adopted on high consumer demand. Both the 2.0- and 2.8-litre engines are available with an option of either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. It doesn’t matter whether you are a ‘sit back and relax’ kind of a driver or the one who enjoys the real driving thrill, Innova has both the experiences on offer.

Mileage - Fuel economy is one of the most critical car-buying factors for Filipinos. Being an MPV, the Innova falls short on the mileage front, but in the category, its caters reasonable figures between 10.75 to 13.68 kmpl.

Price - Toyota Innova petrol base variant is available at an affordable price tag of Php 990,000 with the top variant going up to Php 1,309,000. As for the diesel option, the price ranges lies between Php 1,096,000 to 1,639,000.

While this was the basic information about Toyota Innova, now let’s move a step forward and see the pros and cons of buying this MPV.

Toyota Innova Pros and Cons -

PROS

• Toyota Innova is one of the most comfortable MPVs in the market
• Its cabin is all plush and fancy with the best-in-class fit and finish
• It’s really spacious inside
• It offers a well-tuned suspension and a powerful diesel engine with three driving modes
• Like all Toyota vehicles, it offers high reliability and low maintenance cost

CONS

• Over the period, Innova price tag has increased at lightning speed
• The new exterior design may not appeal many
• With its heavy steering, city driving might not be fun
• Fuel efficiency specs are a bit disappointing

That’s Toyota Innova for you; it’s stunning for some and at the same time expensive and overrated for others. We, however, suggest experiencing the MPV for yourself before making the final decision.