Reviewing the Toyota Innova Hycross
The Toyota Innova Hycross represents Toyota's latest addition to the Indian market, building upon the success of its predecessors with a larger size, new platform, and premium features. Notably, it introduces hybrid technology akin to Toyota's luxurious Vellfire and Camry models, marking a departure from diesel engines in India. Available with a 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 2-litre strong-hybrid unit, both paired with automatic transmissions, it emphasises efficiency and performance.
Externally, the Hycross blends SUV and MPV elements with a modern, premium appearance on the new TNGA-C platform. It offers a comfortable and modern environment with a dual-tone finish, soft-touch materials, and advanced tech features.
Seating is spacious and adjustable, with quilted leather seats in the second row that include electric adjustments and footrests. Front seats are designed for comfort and visibility, enhancing the driving experience. Storage options are plentiful, including a retractable bin for convenience.
Overall, the Toyota Innova Hycross aims to maintain the Innova's reputation for comfort, reliability, and advanced hybrid technology. It appeals to buyers seeking a premium people-mover, combining versatility with modern features and Toyota's commitment to innovation in the MPV segment.
Key Features and Specifications
The Innova Hycross has the following features:
Panoramic Sun Roof
8” (20.32cm)/ 10.1”(25.65cm) Audio with USB Microphone, Bluetooth & Amplifier
8-Way Power Adjustable Driver Seat with Memory + Slide Return & Away Function
Wireless Apple Car Play
Soft Touch Dashboard
10.1-inch floating infotainment display
JBL Premium Audio System
Smart Entry System with Push Button Start
Cruise Control
Indirect Blue Ambient Illumination
Safety Features
Toyota Safety Sense System [Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, Rear Cross Trac Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Pre-Collision System, Auto High Beam]
SRS Airbag- Driver, Passenger, Front Side & Curtain Shield (6 Units)
Vehicle Stability Control + Hill Start Assist
Panoramic View Monitor with Dynamic
Back Guide
SOS (E-Call)
EPB with Auto Hold; ABS with EBD
Front & Reverse Parking Sensor
Reverse Parking Camera
Seat Belt Reminder (2nd & 3rd Row Seats)
Child Restraint System
Anti-Theft Device
Specifications
Length: 4755 mm
Width: 1845 mm
Height: 1795 mm
Wheelbase: 2850 mm
Ground Clearance: 185 mm
Boot Space: 300 litres
Engine: 2-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a non-electrified version of the same engine
Max Power: 172.99 - 183.72 bhp
Max Torque: 188 Nm - 209 Nm
Transmission: Automatic
Mileage: 23.24 kmpl
Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 litres
Price Range and Variants
The Innova Hycross range starts from ₹ 18.92 lakh to ₹ 30.98 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The base variant's Toyota Innova Hycross on-road price (Delhi) is ₹ 23.00 lakhs, and the top variant is ₹ 24.51 lakh. It is available in six broad variants: G, GX, GX (O), VX, VX(O), ZX, and ZX(O). The variant-wise price breakup (ex-showroom, Delhi) is as follows-
G- ₹ 18.92 Lakh to ₹ 18.97 Lakh
GX- ₹ 19.77 Lakh to ₹ 19.82 Lakh
GX (O)- ₹ 20.99 Lakh to ₹ 21.13 Lakh
VX- ₹ 25.97 Lakh to ₹ 26.02 Lakh
VX (O)- ₹ 27.94 Lakh to ₹ 27.99 Lakh
ZX- ₹ 30.34 Lakh
ZX (O)- ₹ 30.98 Lakh
Check out: Toyota Innova Hycross Variants
Reasons for its Popularity
The Toyota Innova Hycross has quickly become popular for its advanced features, comfort, and reliability. Its hybrid technology offers impressive fuel efficiency and lower emissions and is attractive to environmentally conscious buyers. Transitioning to a monocoque construction and front-wheel-drive layout provides a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
The spacious and luxurious interior enhances passenger comfort with modern amenities such as a large infotainment touchscreen, multi-zone climate control, and premium seating. Furthermore, Toyota's reputation for durability and excellent after-sales service ensures long-term reliability, making the Innova Hycross a top choice for families and car enthusiasts looking for a versatile and dependable MPV. Its well-rounded mix of performance, luxury, and practicality solidifies its position in the Indian market.
Top 5 Toyota Innova Hycross Alternatives
The Innova Hycross competes with several notable models in the same segment from various car brands, including the Hyundai Alcazar, Maruti Suzuki Invicto, Tata Safari, Kia Carens, and Mahindra XUV700. Find their overview below-
Maruti Suzuki Invicto
The Maruti Suzuki Invicto combines affordability with reliability, offering a practical and well-equipped MPV option. Its spacious interiors, modern features, and efficient performance make it a budget-friendly choice for families and daily commuters.
Design and Exterior
Maruti Suzuki's Invicto seamlessly blends SUV and MPV design elements, resulting in a style likely to appeal to the entire family. Its upright nose, wide grille, and high-set headlamps give the Invicto a confident front appearance. Full-LED headlamps feature Nexa's signature triple dot DRL setup, and the bumper has been redesigned compared to the Hycross.
From the side, the Invicto's sheer size is impressive. However, the 17-inch wheels, despite their classy design, may seem small for its slab-sided profile. The upright rear end is the most MPV-like angle of the Invicto. Apart from the tail lamps, which have a different lighting pattern, the design remains similar to the Innova.
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Interior Features and Space
The Invicto impresses with wide-opening doors for easy access and a cabin featuring an all-black theme with rose gold accents, akin to the Grand Vitara Hybrid. While classy, adding a contrasting colour to the dashboard and door pads could enhance visual appeal. Material quality is durable but lacks a premium feel, typical of the Toyota/Suzuki collaboration.
The car's excellent ergonomics provide a comfortable driving position and great visibility. It comes in Zeta+ and Alpha+ variants, with the top-spec model resembling the ZX trim of the Innova Hycross. The top-spec model includes a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, rear climate control, and a powered tailgate. The 10.1-inch touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay but could improve responsiveness and contrast. Hycross replaced the JBL audio system due to cost considerations.
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Engine Options and Performance
The Invicto has a 2-litre hybrid engine similar to the Toyota Innova Hycross. It delivers 150.19 bhp and 188 Nm of torque through an e-CVT gearbox. Maruti Suzuki opts exclusively for hybrid power, preceding non-hybrid options.
This setup offers versatility, starting in EV mode for efficiency at low speeds and transitioning seamlessly to petrol power for higher speeds. Acceleration is brisk, achieving 0-100 km/h in approximately 9.5 seconds, with robust power delivery for overtaking. The ride is well-tuned, ensuring comfort and stability at high speeds, complemented by light steering for effortless city driving.
Safety Features
The Invicto has six airbags, ABS with EBD, and traction control. The base-spec version includes a reverse parking camera but, surprisingly, omits parking sensors. It's worth mentioning that there is no equivalent to the Hycross's ZX (O) variant, which features ADAS. Additionally, neither the Innova Hycross nor the Invicto has been crash-tested by Global NCAP or any other independent authority.
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Pricing and Value Proposition
The ex-showroom (Delhi) price of the Invicto ranges between ₹ 25.21 and ₹ 28.92 Lakh, while the on-road price (Delhi) ranges between ₹ 28.86 and ₹ 33.05 Lakh. The Invicto is available in two broad variants: Zeta+ and Alpha+. It offers a compelling blend of SUV and MPV characteristics, powered by a sophisticated hybrid engine for efficiency. It combines spaciousness, comfort, and advanced features, all at a competitive price point.
Pros And Cons Compared to the Innova Hycross
Pros
Impressive road presence with the large size and premium lighting elements.
A truly spacious 7-seater
Hybrid powertrain offers effortless drive and impressive mileage
Cons
17-inch alloy wheels look too small on a large vehicle
No ADAS on offer, which the Innova Hycross gets
Kia Carens
The Kia Carens stands out with its versatile three-row seating, stylish design, and modern features. It offers a spacious interior suitable for families, efficient engine options, and Kia's reputation for reliability and comfort.
Design and Exterior
The Kia Carens showcases a distinctive design ethos departing from Kia's conventional styling cues. Its front fascia boasts a prominent grille, sleek LED DRLs, and LED headlamps, complemented by a large air intake with chrome accents and a dynamic bumper. The sloping bonnet enhances its sporty appeal from the front.
On the sides, its extended wheelbase comfortably accommodates seven passengers. At the rear, split LED taillights connected by a reflector strip, a roof-mounted spoiler, a shark fin antenna, and a chrome-accented bumper enhance its futuristic appearance.
Read More: Kia Carens Dimensions
Interior Features and Space
The Kia Carens combines a spacious, premium interior with a sophisticated exterior design. Its cabin features a dual-tone dashboard focused around a large touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a digital instrument cluster and premium leather upholstery with silver accents.
The Carens includes luxurious amenities like an electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, roof-flushed AC vents, automatic climate control, an air purifier, connected car features, ambient lighting, a wireless charger, and a seat-back table, catering to various preferences across its trim levels.
Check out: Kia Carens Interior
Engine Options and Performance
Kia offers the Carens with a choice of three engines. The first is a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 113.42 bhp and 144 Nm torque, paired with a manual transmission. The second option is a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine generating 157.81 bhp and 250 Nm torque with an iMT or DCT gearbox. Lastly, a 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers 113.42 bhp and 250 Nm torque with a manual, an iMT or an automatic transmission.
The performance of the Kia Carens reflects Kia's commitment to providing customers with an engaging driving experience. Opting for the petrol engine offers a balanced blend of power, fuel efficiency, and handling, ensuring the Carens meets diverse driving needs with competence and enjoyment.
Safety Features
The Carens have a comprehensive standard safety suite featuring six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring with Highline display, traction control, ESC, hill-start assist, ISOFIX child seat anchors, all-wheel disc brakes, and rear parking sensors. Higher trim levels enhance safety further with additions like a rear camera with dynamic guidelines, front parking sensors, automatic headlamps, and automatic wipers.
Also Read: Kia Carens All Specifications
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Kia Carens costs between ₹ 12.17 lakh to ₹ 23.08 lakh on-road in Delhi, while its ex-showroom price ranges from ₹ 10.52 lakh to ₹ 19.43 lakh. It is available in 10 broad variants: Premium, Premium (O), Prestige, Prestige (O), Prestige Plus, Prestige Plus (O), Luxury, Luxury (O), Luxury Plus and X-Line.
If you prioritise a spacious, practical, and comfortable 6/7-seater with compact dimensions suitable for city driving, enhanced interior quality, extensive features, a robust safety suite, and refined driving dynamics, alternatives like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga or XL6 offer competitive value within their price range.
Pros And Cons Compared to the Innova Hycross
Pros
It looks unique in a good way.
Good presence with generous exterior dimensions
The cabin has a lot of practical elements
Cons
Tata Safari
The Tata Safari combines robust SUV styling with a spacious and feature-rich interior. It offers a commanding road presence with signature Tata design elements, advanced safety features, and a capable diesel engine option for enthusiasts seeking adventure and comfort.
Design and Exterior
The Tata Safari maintains Tata's contemporary design approach with updated bumpers, grille, and lighting, enhancing its appearance. It features a prominent LED Daytime Running Lamp, a distinct body-coloured grille, and LED headlamps with sequential turn indicators. The SUV sports 19-inch wheels on top trims, adding to its road presence and aero-enhanced design elements.
The rear showcases sharper tail lamps and a gesture-controlled electric boot opener, reflecting modern utility. Despite these updates, it retains hallmark Safari traits like a robust stance and distinctive roofline while offering improved styling and convenience features for a refreshed appeal in its segment.
Read More: Tata Safari Dimensions
Interior Features and Space
The Tata Safari offers various 'personas' akin to the Harrier, with the top 'Accomplished' variant showcasing a dual-tone interior featuring white and brown upholstery for a premium ambience. However, the light-coloured materials are susceptible to staining, and the artificial wood panel on the passenger side may not appeal universally. It shares the Harrier's steering wheel design and includes a fully digital instrument cluster with customisable layouts and good visibility, albeit requiring separate map apps for full functionality.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen provides smooth wireless connectivity for Apple and Android devices, managing HVAC, ADAS, and audio functions. A 10-speaker audio system for enhanced sound quality supports it.
Check out: Tata Safari Interior
Engine Options and Performance
The Tata Safari has a 2-litre diesel engine producing 167.62 bhp and 350 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. While Tata has improved damping and refinement, a noticeable diesel clatter at idle increases with engine speed. However, the engine offers strong performance across a broad torque band, especially punchy in the mid-range.
Highway driving is a forte, with drive modes—Eco, City, and Sport—adjusting throttle response for different driving dynamics. Sport mode stands out for its responsiveness. The Safari's manual gearbox requires effortful clutch operation, while the Hyundai-sourced automatic shifts smoothly, contributing to its overall agility and drivability.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount in the Tata Safari Hybrid, underscored by its comprehensive safety features. Enhancements in safety standards include up to seven airbags (with six as standard), electronic stability control (ESC), hill start assist, a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These elements collectively guarantee a safe driving environment for all passengers.
Also Read: Tata Safari All Specifications
Pricing and Value Proposition
The ex-showroom price of the Tata Safari in Delhi varies from ₹ 15.49 lakhs to ₹ 27.34 lakhs, covering the single variant available in the Indian market. On-road prices in Delhi start at ₹ 19.23 lakhs for the base model and rise to ₹ 32.20 lakhs for the top-tier version. It is available in four main variants: Smart, Pure, Adventure, and Accomplished.
The Tata Safari combines rugged design, spacious interiors, advanced features, and strong diesel performance, appealing to families and adventure enthusiasts seeking versatility.
Pros And Cons Compared to the Innova Hycross
Pros
The improved design makes a bolder statement.
Premium interior design and experience.
There is ample space for adults in all rows.
Cons
Mahindra XUV700
The Mahindra XUV700 combines robust SUV design with advanced features. It offers powerful engine options, luxurious interiors with segment-leading technology like ADAS, and a spacious cabin. Its competitive pricing makes it a compelling choice in the SUV market segment.
Design and Exterior
The Mahindra XUV700 impresses with its bold and modern SUV design, featuring sharp lines and a muscular stance. Up front, it boasts a large chrome grille and muscular bumper, complemented by sleek LED headlights and C-shaped DRLs for enhanced visibility. Its side profile showcases a sloping roofline, prominent wheel arches, and large alloy wheels, adding to its sporty appeal.
At the rear, stylish LED taillights and a sculpted bumper contribute to its dynamic look. Overall, the XUV700 blends style with functionality, appealing to SUV enthusiasts seeking both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
Read More: Mahindra XUV700 Dimensions
Interior Features and Space
The Mahindra XUV700's interior exudes luxury and modernity. It features a prominent touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The digital instrument cluster adds to the premium dashboard layout. Available in five—or seven-seater configurations, the XUV700 offers comfortable second-row seats and usable third-row seating, albeit with potential ingress challenges due to its height.
Once seated, passengers enjoy ample legroom and under-thigh support. The SUV is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, third-row AC vents, connected car features, diamond-cut alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, premium audio, wireless charging, and smart door handles, enhancing its appeal with a wealth of creature comforts.
Check out: Mahindra XUV700 Interior
Engine Options and Performance
The Mahindra XUV700 offers a choice between two potent engines: a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol producing 197 bhp and 380 Nm of torque and a 2.2-litre diesel engine with outputs of up to 182 bhp and 450 Nm of torque.
The top AX7 and AX7 L trims also feature all-wheel drive (AWD) with the diesel automatic variant, enhancing their capability for urban and off-road environments. With advanced technology, spacious interiors, and strong safety features, the XUV700 delivers a smooth ride and precise handling, catering to diverse driving needs.
Safety Features
The Mahindra XUV700 prioritises safety with features such as the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Hold Control (HHC), Roll Over Mitigation (ROM), Corner Braking Control (CBC), and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
It includes seven airbags (dual front, side, curtain, and driver's knee) for comprehensive collision protection, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking for enhanced safety during parking manoeuvres. The top variant features ADAS with front collision warning, lane keep assist, smart pilot assist, and more. Its robust build quality secures it a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP crash tests.
Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 All Specifications
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Mahindra XUV 700 starts at ₹. 13.99 lakhs (ex-showroom) for the base variant and goes up to ₹. 25.14 lakhs (ex-showroom) for the top model in Delhi. On-road prices range from ₹. 17.00 lakhs to ₹. 32.78 lakhs. It comes in two main trims: MX and AX. Within the AX trim are four sub-variants: AX3, AX5 S, AX5, AX7 and AX7L. The AX7 variant also offers a Luxury Pack, enhancing its feature set further.
It boasts a commanding road presence, a premium cabin, spacious interiors, comfortable ride quality, an extensive feature set, and capable petrol and diesel engine options with their respective transmissions, making it a highly compelling choice in its segment.
Pros And Cons Compared to the Innova Hycross
Pros
Cons
Hyundai Alcazar
The Hyundai Alcazar is a versatile SUV that blends modern design with practicality. It offers spacious three-row seating, premium interiors, advanced features like a large touchscreen, and a choice of petrol and diesel engines, catering well to family-oriented buyers.
Design and Exterior
The Hyundai Alcazar impresses with its robust yet elegant exterior design, seamlessly blending sophistication and sportiness. Its muscular stance and wide grille with chrome detailing convey a premium appeal, complemented by sleek LED headlamps and fog lamps. The SUV's long wheelbase ensures ample cabin space, accentuated by roof rails and bold alloy wheels for a rugged look.
Sharp character lines and chrome accents add elegance. The rear features a sporty bumper, spoiler, and stylish LED taillights connected by a dark chrome strip, silver skid plates, and a shark fin antenna. Overall, the Alcazar effectively combines luxury, practicality, and ruggedness.
Read More: Hyundai Alcazar Dimensions
Interior Features and Space
The Hyundai Alcazar boasts a stylish and modern interior design that prioritises comfort and luxury. With seating for up to seven passengers, its spacious cabin features a prominent 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Bose premium sound system complements it for immersive audio.
The seats are upholstered in dual-tone brown and black leather, providing ample cushioning. The second row features a one-touch tip-and-tumble feature for easy access to the third row, which is suitable for children or shorter adults. Additional amenities include a panoramic sunroof, digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, cruise control, ambient lighting, connected car features, and more, ensuring a premium driving experience.
Check out: Hyundai Alcazar Interior
Engine Options and Performance
Hyundai provides two engine choices for the Alcazar: a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine generating 157.57 bhp and 253 Nm of torque and a 1.5-litre diesel engine delivering 113.98 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. The performance of the Hyundai Alcazar demonstrates Hyundai's dedication to providing an engaging driving experience. It blends power, efficiency, and handling prowess, offering petrol and diesel variants to cater to diverse customer preferences.
Safety Features
The Hyundai Alcazar includes essential safety features as standard, such as six airbags, ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, hill-hold assist, TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera. Higher-end variants offer additional features like front parking sensors, surround view monitors, and blind view monitors for enhanced safety and convenience.
Also Read: Hyundai Alcazar All Specifications
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Hyundai Alcazar costs between ₹ 16.77 lakhs to ₹ 21.28 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) and ₹ 19.18 lakhs to ₹ 24.69 lakhs (on-road, Delhi). It is available in eight variants: Prestige, Prestige (O), Platinum, Platinum Adventure, Platinum (O), Signature, Signature (O), and Signature (O) Adventure. The Alcazar boasts premium creature comforts and advanced safety features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and safe 6/7-seater SUV that offers excellent value.
Pros And Cons Compared to the Innova Hycross
Pros
More standard safety features across all versions.
Additional sense of richness for a more premium feel.
Range of contemporary features, surpassing the Creta's.
Cons
Comparison Table: Toyota Innova Hycross vs Alternatives
