It was a surprise move by Toyota
to see Innova succeeding the highly successful Qualis. If not Toyota, any other
company would have sold Qualis and Innova together given the amount of success
the Qualis got to Toyota in India. Because of this Toyota commands a high brand
value as the company did not want to continue two decade old vehicle in the
form of Qualis.
Come 2005, this part of the world
(South East Asia) saw a world class product called Innova. The Innova was
designed for South East Asian countries, which could give comfort of a sedan
yet can accommodate 7 passengers. The Innova indeed looked ahead of the
generation with its aerodynamic design and class leading performance. No wonder
it has dominated the segment in India since its inception. But the time is not
the same now, as the leader is beginning to feel the heat from its competitors.
First it was the Xylo and now the Ertiga from Maruti which is giving run for
its money for Innova.
Compare the Innova with its
rivals, and still it stays ahead in many aspects such as performance and
comfort. But the crucial aspect here in India is the fuel efficiency and “yeh
dil mange more” attitude of the customers. The Innova lacks the punch in its
engine, the bulky 2.5L D-4D which is a generation old need to be upgraded.
Though Innova seats 7, still the interior space seems to be cramped by big
Indian families. And the design, it has been a common sight on the Indian
roads, thanks to its volume sold. So the Innova indeed need an upgrade and
Toyota also seems to think so. Toyota has officially announced that in 2014 we
will get the next generation Innova which will be better than its preceder in
all aspects. So what can you expect in the 2014 Toyota Innova.
This is just an illustrated picture and not the original Innova 2014
The next generation Innova will
be slightly larger in dimensions. It will maintain the aerodynamic theme but
the design will see a major revamp, perhaps in the history of Toyota. The will
be an advanced diesel engine probably a 2L one with improved fuel efficiency and
power. Due to change in dimensions, the comfort level will also be improved and
expect the new Innova to seat 3 adults at the 3rd row of seats.
Toyota will seriously think to reduce the manufacturing cost to keep the
vehicle competitive; otherwise a gem of a car is surely going to perish (like
that of Fortuner). Any thoughts......???
