Toyota Innova

Innova Overview

The Innova is Toyota’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering and currently remains one of the car brand’s best sellers in the country every year since its release. This seven to eight seater vehicle is known for its impressive ride height, diesel engine, and overall ride comfort, making it a well loved MPV by Filipino families. It has also remained one of the most affordable MPVs on the local market. The third generation Toyota Innova was introduced in February of this year and currently offers six variants: the bae model J, the lower tier E, the mid tier G Diesel, and the top of the line V variant.

While it’s definitely got that MPV look and feel, the Innova takes a lot of inspiration from Toyota’s popular SUVs and crossovers. The Innova shares the same platform as two other Toyota favorites, the Toyota Hilux pickup and the Toyota Fortuner SUV. Some new updates that buyers can expect include a number of exterior facelifts, more standard inclusions for lower trims, and other additional tech and safety features. Toyota has officially removed the gasoline option for all Innova variants. This means that the new 2.8-liter diesel engine will be the only powertrain available.

The latest generation also sports larger dimensions and more aggressive details compared to earlier versions. This gives the vehicle a more sporty appearance that is reminiscent of the U.S. market version of the Highlander SUV. The Innova also shares some similar styling with the Toyota RAV4 such as its clean shoulder lines and angular features. This also includes a larger grille as well as bigger swept back headlights and upswept rearmost side windows.

The Toyota Innova MPV is assembled locally at Toyota’s Santa Rosa, Laguna plant. The latest generation is currently being offered between P1,186,000 to P1,739,000.

Toyota Innova Interior & Features

The interior styling of the Toyota Innova features a straightforward, no nonsense layout. Seating is arranged in a 2-2-3 layout with the middle row offering captain’s chairs with armrests and foldable tray tables, as well as dedicated air condition controls for the G and V variants. The rear seats have seating for up to three people which can often be a tight fit. However, the top of the line V variant has seating for only seven passengers while the rest of the lineup includes eight. Fabric seating material is standard for all trims but can vary in color depending on the variant.

The main color scheme of the Innova’s cabin involves black with silver accents across the dashboard and the air condition vents. However, the dashboard of the high end V variant receives faux wood accents as well as a leather lined tiller and dash. The instrument panel also offers sporty touches that can be something that one doesn’t usually find in an MPV. The G and V variants also include ambient lighting. In the middle of the dashboard is a 7 inch touchscreen display that is equipped with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Meanwhile, the lower E variant received a 6.75 inch unit, while the entry level J variant has a 2-DIN unit.

Underneath these are simple knobs and buttons for the air condition that are similar to those found on the Toyota Corolla Altis. For the driver’s area, there are basic steering wheel controls and the sporty instrument panel. Overall, the latest generation of the Toyota Innova features a contemporary interior design that has the attributes of a modern city car. While each trim offers varying levels of convenience, the Innova manages to avoid compromising on style and comfort, proving why it’s still one of the most desired MPVs in the Philippine car market until today.

Comfort and Entertainment

This family MPV comes with a variety of tech and convenience features depending on the Innova variant you’re driving. The G and V variants include a 7 inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that is hooked to a 6 speaker audio system.

Meanwhile, the mid E variants get a 6.75 inch display but still have the same functionality as the G’s and V’s infotainment system. The base J variant only gets a basic 2-DIN radio which is equipped with numerous audio functions such as CD, AM, FM, Bluetooth, USB, and auxiliary, as well as a number of speakers. The G and V trims also have automatic climate control and push start ignition. While there are no cup holders at the back seats, the doors do offer bottle holders.

Innova Exterior

The third generation Toyota Innova currently offers a refreshed exterior design. The front of the MPV sports multi reflector halogen headlights. However the top of the line variant does come with LED projector type headlamps with clearance lamps instead. The V trim also received LED fog lights with a chrome bezel and a pair of LED daytime running lights. Meanwhile, the rest of the variants get halogen fog lights except for the entry level J trim which does not come with fog lights. The Innova also includes a new colored-keyed bumper with a rear reflector. The front fascia grille varies depending on the trim.

For the V variant, the front sports a blacked out grille, a new front bumper, and spoked alloy wheels. This gives the MPV a more masculine and sporty appearance. Toyota also gave the outer door handles some upgrades with its new grip type handles. The G and V variants feature chrome accents while the J and E trims only have color keyed door handles. For the wheels, the top of the line V variant sports 17 inch alloy wheels and 215/55/R17 tires. On the other hand, variants G to E ride on 205/65/R16 alloy wheels. The base J variant comes in only 205/65 tires and 16 inch steel wheels.

Other key features include a rear window wiper, rear window washer, rear window defogger, an outside rear view turn indicator, and an integrated antenna. Most of the new updates seem rather minor with a lot of the old styling choices being retained for the latest generation. However, as an MPV, it still manages to stand out within its class thanks to its sporty and modern features.

Passenger and Boot Space

The Toyota Innova has three rows of seating and space. The middle row offers a generous amount of legroom and headroom. The MPV also makes it easy to slide the seats forward or backwards to configure the cabin for more space. The space itself is relatively wide enough to fit multiple passengers comfortably. However, the third row might prove to be somewhat cramped for some. While it does offer decent space, those who need more room might find it lacking. For some additional wiggle room, you might need to adjust the second row passenger seats in order make the space more comfortable.

Toyota Innova Ride & Handling

The Toyota Innova is currently equipped with a new and fun engine that makes driving the MPV an exciting experience. According to Toyota, the original 2.0 liter gas options saw little sales, forcing them to finally scrap it. Being a family vehicle, the Innova isn’t necessarily known for its driving dynamics.

However, thanks to its relation to the Hilux and the Fortuner, it still manages to offer considerable power without feeling truckish. The new suspension setup also saw significant improvement from the previous generation and now offers a smoother ride experience. However, it may still feel too soft and floaty for some drivers and passengers. Luckily, the damping does manage to perform well on rought city roads.

One of the advantages of the Innova is that the engine provides extensive flexibility for drivers. There are three driving modes to select from: Eco, Normal, and Power. Eco mode can often feel somewhat sluggish but quickly picks up once disengaged. When on Power mode, it definitely feels like you’ve received a whole lot of additional horsepower. However, expect fuel economy to be significantly affected when this mode is switched on. Overall, the Innova is a powerful, efficient, and comfortable MPV to drive and ride.

Innova Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Toyota Innova rides on the Toyota IMV platform which is also shared by the Hilux and the Fortuner. Powering the MPV is a new Euro 4 2.8-liter diesel that is capable of generating 172 hp and 360 Nm of torque for the automatic variants. Meanwhile,the manual variants produce 168 hp and 343 Nm of torque. These can be mated to either a 6 speed automatic or 5 speed manual transmission which delivers power o the rear wheels.

For the brakes, up front are ventilated discs while the rear has trailing drum brakes. The Innova MPV rides on an independent coil spring, double wishbone with stabilizer suspension for the front. On the other hand, the rear received a four link coil spring system instead. This is the same suspension system which can be found on the previous generation. Steering is powered by a Rack and Pinion Power steering system. Unfortunately, the Innova does not come with Electronic Power Steering according to Toyota. Instead, it utilizes a traditional Hydraulic Power Steering system. However, the steering still manages to provide the right amount of weight, allowing for quick and precise maneuvering.

Fuel Consumption

The Toyota Innova’s 2.8 liter turbodiesel can pack a powerful punch, allowing it to perform well even when cruising on the highway. On top of that, it also offers excellent fuel economy, making it a great value vehicle. On the road with heavy traffic, the Innova can register around 9 to 10 kilometers per liter. In mixed driving conditions, it can reach approximately 12.5 kilometers per liter. On the highway, this can register up to 16 kilometers per liter. Thanks to the MPV’s three driving modes, drivers can easily configure the power output and economy to save on fuel.

Toyota Innova Braking & Safety

The Toyota Innova is equipped with a number of safety features such as side and curtain shield airbags, as well as an additional knee airbag for the driver on top of the standard airbags in the vehicle.

The MPV also includes vehicle stability control, hill start assist, an emergency brake signal, ISOFIX child seat tethers, and an anti lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution that is standard across all trims.

The G and V variants have additional backup sensors, a security system, and immobilizer. The Innova received 5 stars for adult occupancy protection and 4 stars in child occupancy protection by the ASEAN NCAP.

Innova Verdict

Is Innova a Value for Money MPV?

The Toyota Innova remains one of the most desired MPVs in its class and is still one of the annual top sellers thanks to its reliability and comfort. The vehicle is highly appealing to Filipino car buyers due to the reliability of the Toyota brand as well as its similarities with the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Fortuner. Costs for the first months of ownership are relatively light with only minor maintenance and services required. For the first 1,000 km and 5,000 km, PMS can cost between P1,900 to P2,300 for each mileage. When it goes beyond the 10,000 kilometer, this can reach approximately P3,800 to P5,500.

Final Words

The Toyota Innova is still one of the most well loved family cars and MPVs in the country. Besides its generous cabin and cargo space, it also provides drivers and passengers the freedom to configure seats according to their cargo needs. Its powerful engine gives it the right amount of pull to get you to your destination while still providing a smooth ride. Similarly, the inside of the MPV is just as enjoyable for both the driver and passengers thanks to its high comfort levels. The Innova can easily rival midsize SUVs, and for the amount of comfort and convenience it offers, it’s no wonder why it remains the top of its class.