Innova - The Airbus A380 of the road. Review on Toyota Innova

The Qualis’ replacement is a multi-purpose vehicle that Toyota hopes will appeal to a good masses, especially those whose look for comfort, space and reliability. I was planning to buy a second hand diesel Innova as the earlier owner had upgraded to top-end "V" model but later dropped it. I was floored by the drive experience I had. 2500 CC with 102 bhp was like driving a AIRBUS on road(though not driven the Airbus;) rather than in sky. Diesel clatter and vibrations are muted, and it's significantly quieter than the Tavera but the Scorpio with its new CRDe engine is a match for it. I tried pulling it in second gear with AC on, and it took off smoothly with no effort. S.P.A.C.E, uff enough to fill in the whole family and luggage.

Like Airbus gets special attention at any international air shows, Innova makes sure that people do stare at her when standing in a signal or flyingon the road;). It has a huge road presence and definitely a show stopper.

Toyota has.-1590kgweight — 290kg less than Scorpio.-The Innova has coil springs on all four wheels, independent wishbones up front and a four-link rear setup. -Low centre of gravity, which point to good ride and handling. -Legroom, seat height and the seats themselves are the best, better than even the Safari. -Comfortable for tall drivers.-Powerful AC.-Very responsive-Very good refinement. The diesel doesn´t seems to be a diesel even in idle conditions.-Cruising is the Innova's great strength: it's effortless, silent.-Easily goes more than 175 kmph-Well contained body roll -Though not a full offroader but still it negotiates well on rough roads. I deliberately took it to bad roads to check it. -7&8 seater options.-Powerful 2500CC for diesel and 2000 cc for Petrol.-crumple zone body at rear and front for safety-driver and co-driver side airbag-ABS-5 alloy wheels for V model

Some disadvantages.-Parking problem in cities but with practice this can be handled well. Reverse camera and sensor can be used-Has to be careful while overtaking specially in cities, due to the length-taking out stepny is bit of a struggleInnova has recently launched black colour which adds to its ROYAL image. It looks superb withsome slight modification on the front bumper. I think it is only in V model.There was a road test conducted by CNBC on Innova, Scorpio, Tavera and one more vehicle. There verdict was in favour of INNOVA for handling etc.Overall a true AIRBUS A380 on road.Finally after longing for long(just due the price ot V model) I have got a second hand Innova V. Its 7 seater and I am enjoying it. My promotion was from Hyundai Verna to Innova but frankly speaking I didnt the feel that I moved to another car. I am able to equallly manouver like a car which is a great plus. I have done 2.5k kms in 1.5 months and thoroughly enjoying the drive. My plan was to go for a new one but the increase by 45k pulled me back and moreover there is no major change for which I should opt for a new one when I get a second hand which was well maintained.

After a span of almost 3 yrs I am writing the additional comments here. I have driven 60, 000 kms in approx 3 yrs and have used it extensively, 80% being long run. It never ceases to impress me time and again. comfort, riding quality, reliability has been spot on irrespective of the terrain that it passed through. I am extremely impressed with this vehicle and have decided to go with Innova only whenever I plan to buy next. By the way ALL NEW INNOVA is expected in 2015-16 which I will target to buy though I know it will be more pricier than the existing models.

Update after 9 months of last review. I have done almost 1, 60, 000 kms with out any hitch except for an AC issue i.e. it used to go warm suddenly on the run. It was diagnosed as AC clutch issue which has bee rectified to my satisfaction. I am using it regularly with regular maintenance. Next due is 1, 60, 000 kms servicing

If you plan to buy any of the model of Innova - go ahead without any doubt.

All new innova photos are doing rounds in the websites, slated to launch in 2016. It is Indonesian model and hence not sure what will be India model though do not expect too many changes. It has renewed power of 149 bhp and also has automatic transmission. Looks great as well. The only flaw I felt is that the turn indicators are in bumper and given the road condition in India it would be the first one to break:) The cost is also something to look out for as it will cross 21-22 lakhson-road in Bangalore

27/Oct/20

I sold the 2005 V Innova just due to the fact that pollution norms were getting tighter and no one knew what decision the govt will take for BS3 models

Though I was looking to buy a smaller SUV, my family was dead against getting anything other than Innova and then I brought a 2012 BS4 model when it had clocked just 55k kms. It is 100k kms now and going as smooth as it is expected. I do dream of buying the Crysta but alas the price is way beyond the reach. Will keep scouting for a good old Crysta and will grab the opportunity that comes through

Rajeev