Toyota Innova 2012 2.5 VX (Diesel) 8 BS-IV - Performance Review

The Toyota Innova is built on the IMV (Innovative, International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform – which is the common platform that underpins the Fortuner and the Hilux as well. This platform is acclaimed in most of the south-east Asian markets for its characteristics like precise handling, robust build and comfortable ride quality. The Innova sold in India is no different and its market dominance asserts that fact. Since the IMV platform is still at its peak with respect to these characteristics, the mechanicals remain unchanged even in the facelift Innova.

Therefore, under the redesigned hood, our Innova facelift test mule is still powered by a 2.5-litre, four cylinder, D-4D diesel engine. The oil burner puts out 102PS of power and 200Nm of torque. Now these figures don’t sound too optimistic for a vehicle that weighs over 1,600 kilos and expectedly, the Innova does feel a tad sluggish off the line. However, this diesel mill boasts of a strong mid-range and therefore quick overtaking manoeuvres aren’t a big problem even with a full-house and with the air-conditioning running in full swing. On the highway, the Innova cruises effortlessly at triple digit speeds while returning an overall fuel economy of over 12-13 kmpl. There is a petrol option available too – a 2.0-litre engine that puts out 132PS and 200Nm of power and torque respectively, but we haven’t tested it yet.

On the handling and ride quality front, like most Toyotas, the Innova too rates ride comfort higher than cornering abilities. But that said, the Innova’s car-like driving stance, relatively lower seating and a well-sorted suspension setup makes sure that the Innova is more precise, sharper and has lesser body-roll when its handling it compared to other MPVs / SUVs in its segment. The lower seating also helps in reducing the chances of the occupants developing motion sickness – and this is a very important factor for vehicles like the Innova which spend most of their time on long road-trips. As I mentioned earlier, the Innova is available in multiple seating options and all the three rows are quite comfortable. As expected, the third does have a slightly lesser headroom and leg-space but still doesn’t become as painful as the third row of the other MPVs in this segment.

Conclusion

The Toyota Innova is unshakable and the new facelift cements that stand further. The only downside though is that the new Innova’s gone slightly pricier – but it still doesn’t make life any better for its competitors.

Also Read:

Toyota Innova Design Review

Toyota Innova User Experience Review