The Wraps Are Finally Off Toyota’s Radically Different Innova Hycross!

• Toyota Innova Hycross globally breaks cover, India debut on November 25.
• Now based on a monocoque chassis and gets a strong hybrid powertrain.
• Gets evolutionary exterior styling along with a brand new dashboard with upmarket features.
• Top new features include panoramic sunroof, ADAS, and dual rear entertainment screens.
• Gets 2-litre petrol engine with non hybrid and strong hybrid assistance.
• Prices in India will likely be announced at Auto Expo 2023.

This is it! The time you’ve been waiting for is finally here as Toyota has unveiled the Innova Hycross globally in Indonesia. In its latest avatar, the Innova Hycross is a completely different animal than the outgoing model with brand new underpinnings and powertrain options. It will break cover in India on November 25, and prices are expected to be announced at Auto Expo 2023. 

So without further ado, here’s all the dope on the new Innova Hycross: 

For the first time ever, the Innova nameplate now relies on a TNGA:GA-C monocoque platform instead of the body-on-frame chassis we are usually associated with. Here’s a quick look at how its dimensions compare with the Crysta:

We already have a fair idea of how the Hycross looks thanks to the leaked image, but a quick recap nevertheless. Its overall design is more of an evolution of the Innova Crysta. The upright nose, with the trapezoidal grille and sleek LED headlights, give the MPV a SUV-like vibe. Below that is the bumper with triangular-like faux air vents featuring LED DRLs. 

It still looks like an MPV when viewed from the side, but the sharp creases and muscled wheel arches are nicely filled by large 18-inch alloys, giving the MPV a beefy stance. Coming over to the back, the sleek new LED tail lamps round off the overall design. 

The Innova Hycross interior looks much more upmarket and modern thanks to the large new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Even the driver gets his own party piece in the form of a new digital driver’s display, whose layout is, interestingly, similar to the Hyundai Creta. Like before, the middle row occupants get either captain seats or a bench. And if you opt for the former, the Hycross gets a handy leg rest for additional comfort. The cabin, with plenty of storage spaces, remains a practical place to spend time. 

Now to the sheer number of features. Top new additions include a panoramic sunroof, dual rear entertainment screens, electronic parking brake with auto hold, and ADAS. Other notable features onboard include steering-mounted audio controls, rear AC vents with separate controls, keyless entry with push-button start, and ambient lighting. 

Things are different underneath the hood. So you get a 2-litre petrol engine with non hybrid and strong hybrid assistance. The former develops 174PS, while the latter puts out 186PS (combined), and both units drive the front wheels of the MPV. Like the Hyryder, Toyota says you can drive the hybrid powertrain in either EV mode or a mix of both. Sadly, there is no diesel engine on option, and the strong hybrid powertrain will be your go-to option for a fuel efficient alternative. 

So, the Innova Hycross is a completely different animal when compared to the outgoing model. We just hope the tech-laden MPV is priced well when it comes to India soon. At an expected sticker price of around Rs 20 lakh, the Hycross, which will be sold alongside the Innova Crysta, will be a more premium alternative to the Kia Carens and Mahindra Marazzo.