To build on Innova's strong brand value, Toyota launched the Hycross in India about two-and-a-half years ago. Unlike the Crysta, which is currently diesel only, it offers both petrol and hybrid powertrains, and its cabin noticeably feels more premium, thanks to its richer features. Currently, the only direct rival to the MPV is its badge-engineered sibling, the Maruti Invicto. Below are three reasons to consider the Toyota Innova Hycross, and two reasons it might not be the right fit for you.
1. Extremely smooth and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain
Toyota Innova Hycross mileage is 23.24kpl
The Innova Hycross hybrid is powered by Toyota's refined 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, complemented by an electric motor that draws energy from a 1.6kWh battery; transmission duties are handled by an eCVT. By default, the Hycross starts on battery power and calmly potters around, but upon hard acceleration, the petrol mill seamlessly takes charge. Speed build-up is linear, with no sudden surges.
While petrol and hybrid Innova Hycross models share this naturally aspirated block, it's the latter that opts for a more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle (intake valves remain open for a longer time during the compression stroke for a lean air-fuel mixture). Together, the 184hp, 206Nm hybrid-petrol setup delivers an impressive ARAI-rated mileage of 23.24kpl, a whopping 7.11kpl higher than the Hycross petrol.
2. Spacious cabin
Well-cushioned seats for optimal ride comfort
Equally impressive as the claimed mileage is the generous cabin space of the Innova Hycross. That holds for the third row as well, which is usually best for kids or short journeys. In the middle row, Toyota offers part-electric captain chairs with ottomans for that extra level of comfort in the 7-seat layout. Passengers here will also appreciate the window shades, dedicated climate control, and large panoramic sunroof that fills the cabin with light and enhances the airy feel.
Strong-hybrid battery placed under the front passenger seat.
The hybrid battery's placement under the front passenger seat ensures that legroom remains unaffected for the middle row passenger, and unlike some hybrids, this also doesn't compromise boot space. It gets even better at the front as the broad, well-cushioned seats are ventilated and 8-way electrically adjustable.
3. Car-like driving manners
Monocoque frame; firmer suspension setup than the Crysta
The Innova Hycross' monocoque frame aids in controlled body movements, especially for an MPV of this size. A slightly firmer suspension setup than the Crysta means it also drives with a lot more confidence. The longer wheelbase gives the Hycross a planted highway ride, but the real highlight is its power steering (unlike the Crysta's hydraulic unit), making manoeuvring and parking the 4,755mm-long MPV effortless.
While the Toyota Innova Hycross excels in these three areas, there are a couple of areas where it doesn't score as high, as mentioned below.
1. Diesel-like engine punch missing
Linear acceleration
Since the hybrid powertrain has a linear acceleration, as noted in our Innova Hycross review, some may miss the meaty mid-range torque rush of the turbo-diesel. Also, the e-CVT feels at ease when driven calmly, but with aggressive driving, especially at highway speeds, it makes the engine sound strained and out of its comfort zone. Its front-wheel-drive layout might deter those living in hilly areas, where the Crysta's rear-wheel drive setup offers an edge.
2. Some interior plastics feel cheap for Hycross price
Fit-finish and quality of some parts seem out of place
The Toyota Innova Hycross price goes from Rs 19.09 lakh to Rs 31.34 lakh, ex-showroom, with the hybrid variants starting at Rs 26.31 lakh. Considering this price range and its premium positioning, the fit-finish and quality of some plastic trims of the Innova Hycross interior seem out of place. That said, this is a small drawback easily outweighed by the Hycross’s overall strengths.
