Copyright thehindubusinessline
For nearly two decades, the Toyota Innova has defined the MPV space in India and has become a name synonymous with reliability, comfort and space. But the new Innova HyCross Hybrid aims to go a step further. With its SUV-inspired styling, a modern monocoque chassis and Toyota’s latest strong-hybrid technology, the HyCross is not a worthwhile evolution of what the Innova stands for. The Innova HyCross is one of those vehicles that truly looks better in person. Pictures don’t quite capture its bold stance and SUV-like proportions. At first glance, you could easily mistake it for something larger and more rugged — perhaps a crossover in Toyota’s global line-up. The front end commands attention with its wide hexagonal honeycomb grille, bordered by tasteful chrome accents. From the side, the HyCross appears longer and sleeker than before, thanks to its tapering roofline and a more aerodynamic silhouette. The 18-inch alloys fill the arches neatly, and though some may wish for chunkier tyres, the stance remains balanced. At the rear, the wraparound LED tail-lamps and a well-sculpted bumper round off a cohesive modern finish. Step inside, and the transformation is even more apparent. The HyCross’s cabin feels premium, plush and far more upmarket than any Innova before it. Toyota has clearly paid attention to the finer details — from the soft-touch leatherette dashboard with metallic inlays to the intuitive 10.1-inch infotainment system and fully digital instrument cluster. But as always, it’s the second row that steals the show. In the top-spec ZX (O) variant, the Innova HyCross offers Ottoman-style captain seats — complete with extendable footrests, electronic adjustments and plush cushioning that turns the cabin into a rolling lounge. interior setup The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with light, enhancing the sense of space, while roof-mounted air vents ensure that every row stays cool. The second row also features independent climate control and a foldable tray table with cupholders, perfect for long highway journeys or even mobile work setups. The third row, too, is more accommodating than before. Access is easier and two adults can sit there comfortably for shorter journeys. Adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts for all passengers underline Toyota’s attention to safety and practicality. The HyCross’s cabin isn’t just luxurious, it’s packed with thoughtful features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a crisp nine-speaker JBL sound system, ventilated front seats and a powered tailgate all make daily life easier. But the real highlight is Toyota Safety Sense, the brand’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in India. This suite includes a pre-collision warning system, lane trace assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert and a blind spot monitor. Combined with six airbags, ABS, ESC and a strong body shell, the HyCross offers top-tier safety for Indian roads. Under the hood, the Innova HyCross is the first MPV in India to feature a strong hybrid powertrain — a combination of a 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor. Together, they produce 186 hp and 21 kg-m, sent through an e-CVT transmission to the front wheels. That last detail is significant — this is the first front-wheel-drive Innova. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-C monocoque platform, it’s a departure from the ladder-frame rear-wheel-drive layout of the Innova Crysta. The engine itself is Toyota’s fifth-generation M20A-FXS 2.0-litre petrol, paired with an 83 kW electric motor and a 1.37 kWh battery neatly tucked beneath the front seats. Power delivery is smooth and instantaneous, especially in city traffic, where the electric motor handles much of the low-speed work. Performance is effortless. The HyCross can sprint from 0–100 km/h in under 10 seconds, and even at highway speeds, it cruises quietly and confidently. The hybrid system seamlessly switches between electric and petrol modes, often imperceptibly. What really stands out, however, is fuel efficiency. Toyota claims 21.1 kpl, and during our mixed city and highway drive, we managed an impressive 20 kpl — remarkable for a vehicle of this size and weight. Three drive modes — Eco, Normal, and Power — tailor the car’s character to your mood, with Power mode providing sharper throttle response and brisk overtaking ability. You also get an EV-only mode, but it has a very limited range. inspiring confidence The shift to a monocoque chassis and front-wheel-drive setup has transformed the HyCross’s dynamics. It’s nearly 200 kg lighter than the Crysta and you can feel the difference immediately. The steering feels more direct, body roll is better contained and overall refinement is on another level. At city speeds, the HyCross glides over bumps with a supple ride. The suspension tuning strikes a fine balance; firm enough to feel planted on highways, yet soft enough to absorb potholes. Even at triple-digit speeds, the car remains stable and composed, inspiring confidence on long journeys. The only downside is the low-profile tyres (225/50 R18) on the top trims, which can feel a tad firm over sharp edges and broken roads. That said, the payoff in aesthetics and handling precision is worth it. Toyota hasn’t forgotten what made the Innova a household name — versatility. The flat floor, multiple USB-C charging ports, ample storage and large boot space with the third row folded all add to its practicality. The Toyota Innova HyCross Hybrid represents a bold step forward for India’s most trusted MPV nameplate. It’s more stylish, more comfortable, more efficient, and smarter than ever before. With a price range from ₹18.86 - 31.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s certainly positioned at the premium end of the MPV spectrum, but the value it offers justifies the tag. For families, it delivers the perfect blend of space, safety and sophistication. For business owners, it offers reliability with a dose of eco-conscious efficiency. And for long-distance travellers, it’s comfort and endurance rolled into one sleek package. The HyCross isn’t just a new Innova — it’s the future of the MPVs in India. © Motoring World Published on October 31, 2025
