About Toyota Innova Hycross

The Toyota Innova Hycross is a new offering by Toyota that aims to build upon the success of the popular Toyota Innova in the Indian market. The MPV takes the game to the next level with its larger size, new platform, and premium features. Another highlight of the Hycross is the hybrid technology, similar to the more expensive models like Vellfire and Camry.

The Hycross is the first Innova model in India to be based on a monocoque construction and feature a front-wheel-drive layout. It departs from the diesel engine options and instead offers a 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 2-litre strong-hybrid unit. Both engine options are paired with automatic transmissions, with a CVT gearbox for the petrol engine and an e-Drive transmission for the hybrid variant.

Overall, the Toyota Innova Hycross aims to continue the legacy of the Innova moniker and maintain Toyota's dominance in the MPV segment in India. It offers a blend of comfort, reliability, and advanced hybrid technology, making it an attractive choice for customers looking for a premium people-mover.

Toyota Innova Hycross: Quick Review

The following sections provide more details about the exterior, interior, performance and features of the Toyota Innova Hycross.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the Toyota Innova Hycross showcases a combination of SUV and MPV elements, offering a modern and premium look. The Hycross is based on the new TNGA-C platform and features a front-wheel-drive monocoque architecture, departing from the ladder-frame chassis of its predecessor, the Innova Crysta. While it is only slightly longer and wider than the Crysta, the Hycross appears more substantial due to its wider tracks, longer wheelbase, and shorter overhangs.

At the front, the Toyota Innova Hycross retains its recognisable Innova identity but with some updates. The grille is larger, and the headlamps are now sharper and more condensed, featuring LED technology. The design carries SUV cues, including a connected air dam with large housings for the daytime running lights (DRLs). The overall design enhancements give the Hycross a more imposing presence and a touch of SUV styling while still maintaining its MPV characteristics.

Furthermore, the Toyota Innova Hycross features squared wheel arches and plastic body cladding, which contribute to its muscular appearance. Overall, the Hycross combines elements of ruggedness, sophistication, and MPV practicality, making it a compelling choice for customers seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle.

Interior and Features

The Toyota Innova Hycross features an interior design that combines modernity and comfort. The dashboard design is upmarket and refreshing, with a dual-tone finish and soft-touch materials that give a premium feel. The centrepiece of the dashboard is a large floating infotainment touchscreen accompanied by silver-accented AC vents. The gear lever is mounted upright on the dashboard, creating more space in the centre console.

The Innova Hycross is equipped with advanced technology and features. It offers a 10.1-inch floating infotainment display, a JBL-sourced music system, multi-zone climate control, Toyota i-Connect, a multi-functional steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and wireless charging, among other features.

The cabin provides a comfortable and spacious environment, which has always been a hallmark of the Innova. The seats are well-designed and offer ample space, with the front seats being large and set high for a commanding view of the road. The second-row seats are individual, quilted leather seats that can be electrically adjusted, and they also come with electrically adjustable footrests. Additionally, there is a retractable storage bin in the middle for convenience.

Compared to its predecessor, the Hycross offers a significant improvement in terms of cabin quality and comfort. The seating configuration and features, along with the advanced technology and spaciousness, make the interior of the Toyota Innova Hycross a comfortable and enjoyable space for occupants.

Engine Performance

The Toyota Innova Hycross comes with two engine options: a 2-litre hybrid powertrain and a 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 169.6 bhp and 205 Nm of torque and comes mated to a CVT gearbox. The hybrid avatar of the engine produces 181.4 bhp and 188 Nm of torque and comes mated to an e-Drive automatic transmission.

The hybrid powertrain is complemented by an electric motor for brisk responses, resulting in an overall satisfying performance. The hybrid powertrain also incorporates a 1.6kWh nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery that provides power to the electric motor.

Overall, the engine performance of the India-spec Toyota Innova Hycross is commendable, with the hybrid powertrain offering a combination of efficient power delivery and responsive performance. The use of hybrid technology and the adoption of a modern platform contribute to a well-rounded driving experience in terms of power, efficiency, and handling.

Safety

The Toyota Innova Hycros comes loaded with advanced safety features like six airbags, stability control, hill-hold assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a 360-degree camera, etc. The MPV also gets ADAS with features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, lane trace assist, etc.

Pros and Cons of Toyota Innova Hycross

Pros

It gets a revamped exterior design with a butch and rugged stance.
The spacious and luxurious interior makes for an excellent driving experience.
It gets all the bells and whistles needed for a comfortable drive.
The hybrid variant is fuel efficient.
It gets advanced safety features.

Cons

The plastic quality in certain areas of the cabin could have been better.
It misses out on a diesel engine option.