Toyota Kirloskar Motor is getting ready to launch a new hybrid MPV towards the end of this year or early next year. Though, the company hasn’t yet conveyed official word on the same. The Japanese automaker recently trademarked two names in India – Toyota Innova HyCross and Toyota Innova Zenix. One of them is likely to be used for its upcoming new hybrid MPV.
If reports are to be believed, the Innova Zenix name could be used for the range-topping trim or hybrid variants of the MPV. The company has already registered the same nameplate in markets like Indonesia, Philippines and Malaysia. Rumour also has it that the company might use Innova HyCross name in India only and the Innova Zenix will be reserved for overseas markets.
Compared to the existing Innova Crysta, the new model will look different and have longer wheelbase and more cabin space. Unlike the existing model that underpins the ladder-frame chassis & RWD layout, the 2022 Toyota Innova Zenix will be designed on a new modern, monocoque platform & FWD setup. The new architecture is reported to be based on Toyota’s global TNGA-C/GA-C platform.
The new Toyota Hybrid MPV will sit on a 2850mm longer wheelbase and offer more cabin space than the Innova Crysta. Design and styling of the model will be inspired by the new Veloz MPV. It will carry more modern and crossover-ish stance that will differentiate it from the existing Toyota Innova Crysta.
As mentioned above, the model will feature hybrid technology. It’s likely to come with the 2.0L petrol hybrid powertrain. The automaker might equip it with the localized version of its new THS II (Toyota Hybrid System II) that has a twin-motor setup enhancing its high ‘step-off’ torque and fuel efficiency. The new Toyota MPV could also be offered with the 1.8L hybrid powertrain.
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