The Qualis is a very outdated model. It was in fact two generations old by the time it came to India. Around the world the next generation of it was being sold.
Yet, with all its shortcomings, it became a bestsellerand beat even the Sumo in sales! When a twenty year old car can record record breaking sales figures, what will happen to a car three generations ahead with every possible improvment? That is what we are about to witness.
Here comes the all new Toyota Innova! It is one of the few cars that has come to India months after its international launch. It is so different from its predecessor Qualis, that it is difficult to believe that it was once a Qualis. It is essentially a crossover of an estate, SUV, MPV and sedan. So you get the advantages of all these types. The Innova is definitely a born winner.
Aesthetics- The Innova is one of the most modern cars in India. The Qualis looks like it is from the stone age, when compared to the it. But that does not necessarily mean that the Innova is a stunner.
The Innova is quite attractive. The front is typically Toyota, with its multi reflector Toyota(ish) headlamps, grille and the badge just under the lip. You get an option of fog lamps too. On the lower variants, the Innova gets a black bumper, which makes it look a little ungaily. The side is typically like a minivan. But it does have its own share of appeal.
The flared wheel arches look very nice, while the 15'' alloy wheels are absolutely awesome. The glass has a smooth flow, making it look aerodynamic. The rear is like the Forester, but a little taller. All this may suggest that the Innova is attractive, but from some angles, it looks a bit quirky. Otherwise, it is quite good looking (atleast miles ahead of the Tavera!).
With all this comes the legendary and unbeatable Toyota quality, making it very competitive indeed.
Comfort- Toyota says the reason for its shape is to clear space inside. And they aren't kidding! However spacious the Qualis may have been, it pales against the Innova. More on space later. The instrument panel is very attractive with unique dials.
One feature that drivers will appreciate is the tilt steering, which along with the adjustable seats, will allow him to choose the perfect driving position. The quality is very good everywhere.
The dashboard is modern with wood trim available as an option. The audio system can play CDs as well as MP3s. The cabin is very driver centric, with ergonomically placed controls. There is also a mobile charger at just the right spot on the dash.
One amazing thing on the Innova, is that it has three rows of seating, and still there is ample space and comfort for all rows! The second row can seat two, while the last row can seat three. All rows have so lots of legroom and headroom. There are A/C vents for all three rows. Also, all rows' seats can be adjusted! Moreover, the rear seats can be folded up, to give lots of luggage space. If even that isn't enough, the second row can be fully folded, it give acres of luggage space. So on the whole, the Innova has an absolutely comfortable and luxurious interior. It is unbeatable here!
Performance- The Innova comes with two engine options. One is a 2 liter VVTi petrol, which is refined and powerful, with 136 bhp (11 hp more than Corolla!). And don't worry, there is a diesel engine too. And a cracker of an engine! It employs Toyoya's D4-D technology (ie, common rail diesel injection). With its CRDi tech, it is very refined, and has ample power. The 2.5 liter powerhouse pumps out 102 bhp and 20 kg-m of torque. The petrol version has tonnes of power. It should be able to accelerate quickly, and my estimate is 100 km/h in less than 13 seconds, making it an awesome performer. The top speed must be around 175 km/h. Compare it to the Qualis, Tavera, and Scorpio, you feel its a supercar!
Moving over to the diesel engine, it has that disadvantage of less power, but its low end torque will make it a good option. Since it is a CRDi, its low end pulling power will make it fun to drive. Though power isn't likely to be its selling point, it is quite decent. I estimate around 7 seconds to 60 km/h and 16 seconds to 100 km/h. The torque, though not up to my expectations, is okay. In the area of performance, the petrol is a hero. The diesel is among the better ones available in the country, but the fuel efficiency will more than make up for its un-supercar performance!
Running costs, service backup- This deserves a separate section in our country. The petrol engine, is unlikely to be very efficient. It has lots of power to make up for that anyway. The petrol variant is likely to manage 11-12 km/l in city conditions, which is okay. The diesel is a CRDi, so economy will definitely be good. I expect close to 14 km/l in city conditions, and 16 km/l on the highway. Fuel economy is average for the petrol model, and good for the diesel. Toyotas are well known for their reliability, but just in case you come across some problem, you will be well supported by your dealer. Many survey's indicate that Toyota has good service.
VERDICT- Amazing. The Innova, an outcome of the IMV project is an absolute stunner. No shortcomings at all. It is attractve enough, its interior is sooooooooooooooooo spacious, absolutely comfortable and utterly luxurious. Then there is the POWERFUL petrol engine and the efficient diesel engine. The petrol engine's power is toooooooooooo good.
In fact, I suggest that you go for the petrol instead of the diesel. Performance is excellent. I am running out of superlatives. You just CANNOT get a more powerful, spacious, comfortable and luxurious car for its price. The Innova is a masterpiece.
Atlast we have got a modern up to date vehicle in India, and see how good it is! We all have been satisfied with old outdated models, because we don't know the standard world over. Believe me, Innova is the FIRST up to date vehicle to come to India. I request customers to demand the latest cars from the manufacturers. Lets hope the Innova opens the eyes of other car makers, so that they bring in their latest too.
And PLEASE don't ignore the petrol model. The petrol model is better than the diesel in many ways. At 6.5-9.5 lakhs only, the Innova displays TREMENDOUS value for money; it is invincible.
STYLE- 9/10
BUILD QUALITY- 9.5/10
FIT AND FINISH- 9.5/10
ENGINE- P-10/10, D-9/10
PERFORMANCE- P-10/10, D-9.5/10
RIDE- 9/10
HANDLING-8.5/10
COMFORT- 10/10
FUEL ECONOMY- P-9/10, D-9/10
VALUE FOR MONEY- 10/10
THE GRAND TOTAL- PETROL- 94.5/100,
DIESEL- 93/100
