The 2016 Toyota Innova was caught testing once again in Bangalore, closer to the automaker’s production facility in Bidadi. One of the most popular MPVs in the country, the Innova has aged after a decade long presence and has been only cosmetically upgraded over the years. However, Toyota promises that the second generation of the MPV will be much more effectively packaged, while retaining the underpinnings from the current generation model.
The next generation Toyota Innova will be based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) which also underpins the 2016 Fortuner SUV. The MPV retains a majority of the design from the outgoing model, while comprehensive changes will cover the front and rear fascia. Expect to see a wider and bolder rectangular grille, revised headlamps and bumper, while the the rear will get redesigned wraparound LED tail lights replacing the vertically stacked units along with changes to the tailgate and bumper. The new Innova continues with the ladder on-frame setup and is also expected to grow marginally in size.
The longer wheelbase will translate into more room in the third row as well as a larger boot. While space was never an issue with the Innova, the level of equipment certainly has been. Toyota will also update the MPV with loads of new equipment that will come with redesigned interiors. The fit and finish are also expected to improve with the 2016 model. In terms of powertrain, the 2016 Innova will be use Toyota’s new line of engines that are currently being developed, and are touted to offer better performance and improved fuel efficiency. A diesel automatic is also said to be in the works.
While Toyota is certainly pushing the Innova as a more upmarket model, the Japanese auto giant will also increase the price of the MPV. The current generation model starts at a price of around Rs. 11 lakhs with the top-end diesel model touches the Rs. 18 lakh mark. With the next generation model though, Toyota is planning to price the model more optimistically and could hit the Rs. 20 lakh mark for the top-end variant. The company is certainly positioning the Innova as a premium MPV that will compete with the sub 20 lakh crossovers in the same price range.
Even though popular rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and the new Honda Mobilio are priced in the sub Rs. 10 lakh range, Toyota seems to create a niche of its own with the next generation Innova that will get it a distinctive set of buyers. The MPV is one of the best selling models for the company and manages over 4000 units month-on-month. We do hope that Toyota justifies the pricing with a plethora of features, equipment and efficient powertrains on the next generation Innova.
Spy Picture Source – Ibtimes.co.in
