Toyota is working on two new utility vehicles – a new mid-sized SUV and a new C-segment MPV for the Indian market. The new mid-sized SUV is likely to be launched by festive season, before Diwali. On the other hand, the new C-segment MPV is scheduled to be launched in 2023.
The new Toyota C-segment MPV, codenamed 560B has already been spotted a couple of times during its test rounds on the Indian roads. It was speculated to be called the next-gen Innova Crysta. The spy images reveal that the new MPV appears smaller and has a completely different design.
The new Toyota C-segment MPV will be positioned somewhere between the Ertiga and the Innova. It will rival the likes of the Kia Carens and the Mahindra Marazzo. It is reported that the new C-segment MPV could be based on Toyota’s low-cost DNGA (Daihatsu New Generation Architecture) platform. This platform currently underpins the Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky and the new-gen Avanza. In fact, the upcoming Toyota mid-sized SUV, codenamed D22 will also be based on the same DNGA platform.
The new models are also expected to be shared with Maruti Suzuki under the Toyota-Suzuki partnership. While the Maruti’s mid-sized SUV has already been spotted, details about the MPV are still under wraps.
The spy images also suggest that the new C-segment Toyota MPV could share design and interior elements from the Avanza MPV. The front door and the ORVM’s shape and positioning appear similar to the Avanza; however, the rear door looks longer and has small quarter glass window. Toyota will also make changes to the rear profile to liberate more space inside the cabin. The Avanza measures 4,475mm, which is around 260mm shorter than the Innova; however, both models have same 2,750mm wheelbase.
The new Toyota MPV is most likely to be equipped with a strong hybrid engine. On low speeds, the new C-segment MPV will be capable of running purely on electric mode. This will help in returning higher fuel efficiency compared to the petrol models. The powertrain will comprise of a petrol engine paired to a small battery. It will also come with multiple drive modes such as Electric, Hybrid and Petrol.
