Toyota Innova VD 7-seater AD

As a product, the Innova’s superiority is beyond reproach and proof of how thoroughly engineered Toyotas can be

Published on Aug 31, 2009 07:00:00 AM

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Make : Toyota

Model : Innova

The face-lifted Innova with an all-new grille and a new bumper as well that sport Corolla and Camry styling elements. These changes are minor but they dramatically improve the looks of this MPV. Built on a ‘C-in-C’ ladder frame, the Innova clearly has van proportions which even the sloping roof, curved D-pillar and mildly flared wheel arches can’t disguise. The Innova has coil springs on all four wheels, independent wishbones up front and a non-independent four-link rear setup along with a low centre of gravity, all of which point to good ride and handling. Large bushes have also been used to damp additional vibrations. Build quality in the Innova is superb and a generation ahead of the others in its class.

Toyota has added extra features like automatic climate control, stereo-mounted audio controls and a multi-information display which help impart a luxury feel to the already comfortable MPV. The white-lit Optitron gauges which get illumination control look very attractive as well. Apart from these additions, the interiors remain largely unchanged. You get the same top-quality materials and excellent fit-and-finish that are typically up to Toyota’s high standards and a class apart from the others. You also immediately notice the width — it’s as wide as an E-class inside! To add to this legroom, seat height and the seats themselves are top-class, better than even the Safari.

Even the tallest drivers can get comfortable behind the wheel, and this seems to have little effect on rear seat comfort. The seats are supportive, well padded and bolstered, and the placement and design of cubby holes and bottle holders is great. The Innova also has the most useable and comfortable rear seats in the class, and the split seat reclines individually. Here, you sit low and legroom is tight, but it’s comfortable, even on long drives. Top-end versions also get air-conditioning vents for all three rows.

The Innova is powered by the tried-and-tested D4-D 2.5-litre turbo-diesel generating 102bhp. Off the line, the Innova is very responsive with little turbo-lag and tugs you forward from as low as 1200rpm. The long-throw gearbox is light and direct and the gear ratios are perfectly matched to the engine’s power and torque characteristics to complement the Innova’s superb driveability. As a result, ambling in city traffic is a breeze, you rarely feel a lack of power or the need to downshift. In terms of refinement, the D-4D engine isn’t a quantum leap ahead of its rivals. There is that unmistakable clatter of diesel in the cabin, but it is well damped and muted.

The relatively short gear ratios are perfectly matched to the engine's power and torque characteristics, and complement the superb driveability. What the Innova lacks, however, is the top-end punch of the Scorpio. It’s comfortable, but not a vehicle to really push in. The long-throw gearbox is UV-derived but it’s light, direct and better than on many cars. Fuel economy is pretty good in the city, at 10.3kpl, but falters on the highway, with only 12.7kpl.

The Innova’s low stance and low weight give it an advantage even before it turns a wheel. Toyota’s engineering expertise has ensured that it drives as well as many saloons. The Innova's brakes work well to bring the car to a halt while cruising through city streets as well as when zipping along on the highway. Out on the highway where most MPVs don’t fare too well, the Innova is superb. Body roll is well contained.

The steering is well-weighted and gives superb feedback. You don’t have to tiptoe through corners or slow down for them, like you would in other cars in this class. And the decent grip and handling aren’t at the expense of ride quality. Low spped rideis quite cushioned and is not verry jarring. What’s truly impressive is the Innova’s flat and consistent poise with none of the heaving and pitching which makes travelling in it all that more comfortable.