The Toyota Innova has long been a cornerstone of the Indian automotive market, revered for its reliability, comfort, and versatility.
With the introduction of the Innova HyCross in 2024, Toyota has taken a bold step forward, blending the beloved characteristics of its predecessor with cutting-edge hybrid technology and a host of modern features.
This comprehensive review delves into the various aspects of the 2024 Toyota Innova HyCross, exploring its design, performance, features, and market position.
Design and Exterior
The 2024 Innova HyCross marks a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of design:
SUV-inspired Styling: The HyCross adopts a more muscular and SUV-like stance, moving away from the traditional MPV look.
Dimensions: At 4,755 mm long, 1,845 mm wide, and 1,785 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm, the HyCross is larger than its predecessor.
Front Fascia: A bold, trapezoidal grille dominates the front, flanked by sleek LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights.
Profile: Strong character lines and pronounced wheel arches contribute to a dynamic side profile.
Rear Design: LED taillamps and a sculpted tailgate complete the modern look.
The design evolution reflects Toyota’s intent to appeal to a broader audience, blending MPV practicality with SUV desirability.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the Innova HyCross, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s a significant leap forward in terms of design and features:
- Dashboard Layout: A modern, horizontally-oriented dashboard with a floating touchscreen infotainment system.
- Seating Options: Available in 7 and 8-seat configurations, with the option of captain seats in the second row.
- Premium Features:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Powered Ottoman seats (in select variants)
- Multi-zone automatic climate control
- Ambient lighting
- Infotainment: 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital Instrument Cluster: 7-inch TFT display providing essential information
- JBL Premium Audio: 9-speaker system for an immersive audio experience
The interior combines practicality with luxury, offering features that were once the domain of more premium segments.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2024 Innova HyCross offers two powertrain options, with the hybrid variant being the highlight:
- Hybrid Powertrain:
- 2.0-liter TNGA petrol engine combined with an electric motor
- Total system output: 183.7 bhp
- e-CVT transmission
- ARAI-certified fuel efficiency: 23.24 km/l
- Petrol Engine:
- 2.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine
- Power output: 171 bhp
- Torque: 205 Nm
- Direct Shift CVT transmission
- ARAI-certified fuel efficiency: 16.13 km/l
The hybrid powertrain, in particular, has been praised for its smooth operation and impressive fuel efficiency, addressing one of the few criticisms of the previous Innova models.
Driving Dynamics
Despite its size, the Innova HyCross offers a refined driving experience:
- Ride Quality: The monocoque construction (a departure from the previous body-on-frame design) contributes to a more car-like ride.
- Handling: While not sporty, the HyCross offers predictable and stable handling characteristics.
- NVH Levels: Significantly improved noise insulation makes for a quieter cabin.
- Hybrid System Integration: The transition between electric and petrol power is seamless, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Safety Features
Toyota has equipped the Innova HyCross with a comprehensive safety package:
- Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including:
- Pre-Collision System (PCS)
- Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Automatic High Beam (AHB)
- 6 airbags
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
- 360-degree camera system
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
These features position the Innova HyCross as one of the safest vehicles in its segment.
Variants and Pricing
The 2024 Innova HyCross is offered in multiple variants to cater to different budgets and requirements:
- GX (7 and 8-seater): Starting from ₹19.94 lakh
- GX (O) (7 and 8-seater): Starting from ₹21.16 lakh
- VX (7 and 8-seater Hybrid): Starting from ₹26.31 lakh
- VX (O) (7 and 8-seater Hybrid): Starting from ₹28.29 lakh
- ZX (7-seater Hybrid): Priced at ₹30.70 lakh
- ZX (O) (7-seater Hybrid): Priced at ₹31.34 lakh
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi, as of December 2024)
While the pricing positions the HyCross at a premium compared to its predecessor, the added features, hybrid technology, and overall refinement justify the increase for many buyers.
Market Position and Competition
The Innova HyCross enters a market segment that has evolved significantly:
- Direct Competitors: While the Innova has long been in a class of its own, it now faces competition from vehicles like the Kia Carens and the Mahindra Marazzo.
- Indirect Competitors: Given its pricing and features, it also competes with entry-level variants of larger SUVs like the MG Hector Plus and Tata Safari.
Toyota’s strategy seems to be positioning the HyCross as a premium offering that bridges the gap between traditional MPVs and mid-size SUVs.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
One of the HyCross’s strongest selling points, particularly in the hybrid variant, is its exceptional fuel efficiency:
- Hybrid variant: 23.24 km/l (ARAI certified)
- Petrol variant: 16.13 km/l (ARAI certified)
Real-world efficiency, as reported by owners, tends to be slightly lower but still impressive, especially for the hybrid:
- Hybrid: 18-20 km/l in mixed driving conditions
- Petrol: 12-14 km/l in mixed driving conditions
The focus on efficiency not only translates to lower running costs for owners but also reduces the vehicle’s environmental impact, aligning with growing concerns about automotive emissions.
Owner Experiences and Reviews
Early owner reviews of the Innova HyCross have been largely positive:
Pros frequently mentioned:
- Exceptional fuel efficiency of the hybrid variant
- Comfortable and feature-rich interiors
- Smooth and quiet operation, especially in EV mode
- Toyota’s reputation for reliability and after-sales service
- Improved driving dynamics compared to the previous Innova
Areas of improvement noted by some owners:
- Higher initial cost, especially for top-end variants
- Limited boot space with all three rows in use
- Firmer ride quality compared to the previous Innova Crysta
Toyota Innova HyCross : A Bold Step Forward
The 2024 Toyota Innova HyCross represents a significant evolution of the Innova nameplate.
By introducing strong hybrid technology, adopting a monocoque construction, and loading it with premium features, Toyota has not only differentiated the HyCross from its predecessors but also addressed the changing preferences of the Indian automotive market.
Key strengths of the Innova HyCross include:
- Class-leading fuel efficiency in the hybrid variant
- Premium features like ventilated seats and panoramic sunroof
- Toyota’s reputation for quality and reliability
- Comfortable and well-appointed interiors
- Comprehensive safety features
Areas where there’s room for improvement:
- Initial high cost, especially for top-end variants
- Boot space with all three rows in use
- Ride quality, which some find firmer than the previous model
For buyers looking for a versatile family vehicle that offers a blend of efficiency, comfort, and premium features, the Innova HyCross presents a compelling case.
Its hybrid technology not only promises lower running costs but also aligns with the growing global focus on reducing automotive emissions.
As the automotive landscape in India continues to evolve, with an increasing emphasis on electrification and sustainable mobility, the Innova HyCross positions Toyota well to meet these changing consumer preferences.
While it may not be the cheapest option in its segment, the long-term value proposition, especially for the hybrid variant, makes it a smart choice for discerning buyers.
The 2024 Toyota Innova HyCross, then, is not just another iteration of India’s favorite MPV. It represents Toyota’s vision for the future of family mobility in India – efficient, feature-rich, and with a reduced environmental footprint.
As the market continues to shift towards more sustainable options, the Innova HyCross stands as a pioneer, potentially setting the trend for future developments in this highly competitive segment.