Toyota is serious about their Innovative Multipurpose Vehicle or IMV that a team of its senior engineers circled the globe and listened to customers, including those from the Philippines, to find out what their vehicles go through. Armed with this knowledge, the result is the much-improved second-generation IMV capping off with the most-awaited iteration of them all: the all-new 2016 Innova.
Already the country’s best-selling MPV, the Innova didn’t need a drastic change to win sales, but Toyota isn’t resting on their laurels. Understanding that it is set to expand to other markets, they need to toughen up this no-nonsense, practical family car. And toughen it they did.
Hiroshi Nakajima, Chief Engineer of the IMV sums it up as having to design a second-generation Innova that’s every bit an MPV, but with the added authority of an SUV. In short, he’s going for something he calls: multi-performance. Buyers aren’t just keen on having a car that does one thing well. They want something that’s versatile—something he sums up in three aspects: an exterior that leaves a lasting impression, an interior that’s flexible, and performance that’s stress-free.
The first aspect is achieved through the Innova’s new design form. Though it doesn’t seem to share much with other Toyotas in terms of design language, it does have a stronger presence thanks to added angularity. The chiseled form starts from the wide grille that visually connects to the slender headlamps. At the side, the Innova gains a more prominent character line that projects a livelier vibe along with 205/65R16 tires at each corner. The window treatment at the back is somewhat odd, but it’s nonetheless unique. The rear end gives a strong finish with the fang-like tail lamps.
As changed as it is outside, it’s on the inside where it sees the biggest improvement in both design and quality. Toyota has certainly done their homework and it shows. The asymmetrical dashboard, a theme seen on the RAV4 and Corolla Altis, gives a visually odd look, but contributes to a driver-friendly experience. The controls are slightly canted towards the driver and together with the large and clearly marked buttons, make for easy operation. Compared to the previous model, the most comfortable seating position now is lower, giving a car-like feel. The seats themselves are also more supportive and the steering actually adjusts for both tilt and reach. The expansive dashboard top and low set instrument cluster does take some getting used to, but once adjusted to, visibility is quite good throughout.
With a body that’s stretched in all dimensions, the 2016 Innova feels bigger inside. In terms of numbers alone, it gains more headroom for the first (+5mm) and third row occupants (+10mm) while increasing the seating distance between occupants by as much as 19mm. The second row seats are noticeably spacious while retaining its cargo flexibility by having a 60/40 split fold, slide, and tumble mechanism. The third row retains its 50/50 split side folding layout, but thanks to a spring loaded mechanism and anchors at the back, as opposed to the door handles, makes for easier storage.
The family man is already rejoicing at this point, but it only gets better from there. Another substantially improved area is the driving feel. Like before, it’s offered with both gasoline and diesel engines, though the diesel is the one to get. The 2.8-liter Euro-4 compliant diesel engine is equipped with variable geometry turbo enough for a 171 horsepower output as well as 360 Nm of torque from as low as 1,200 rpm. Mated to a six-speed automatic (no paddle shifters), it makes for brisk acceleration. At idle, it’s quiet and refined, and will easily cruise to highway speeds with little difficulty. There’s almost no ruckus from the engine bay except at full throttle application. Surprisingly, occupants will easily converse with each other with controlled road, tire, and wind noise.
Still equipped with a double wishbone front and 4-link coil spring rear suspension, it manages to absorb bumps well thanks to its highly rigid frame. With the frame’s side rails as thick as those in the Land Cruise Prado, it makes for added durability that quells chassis flex, especially on rough roads and/or full loads. What’s more, the Innova has something called Body Control with Torque Demand. This fully transparent system uses sensors to quell unwanted pitching potion by controlling engine torque. Whenever the center of gravity shifts front or back, say going over large bumps, it smoothens power delivery to lessen the jolting position. The polished ride is capped off with a nicely safe and stable handling. Although the steering is still a bit lethargic because of the hefty steering and the brakes are still too grabby.
As a company, Toyota has set a challenge to create ever better cars and with the all-new Innova, they have delivered on that promise. Toyota didn’t need to improve it by leaps and bounds to maintain market leadership, but with a name derived from the word, “Innovate”, the all-new Innova has certainly lived up to its name. This is one vehicle that’s managed to live up to all the hype and then some.
forgot to mention fuel consumption, or did I miss a line?
ReplyDeleteI don't want to quote a consumption figure given the relative short distance we travelled. But resetting the FC meter, I did around 9.1 km/L.
Deletesir uly, were you able to ask any toyota rep on why they chose bring the 2.8 here instead of the 2.4?
DeleteAnd is the steering wheel heavier than the new fort?
Steering feel more or less same as Fortuner. It's no Vios that's for sure.
DeleteIn short, 3rd-world truck based-level, meaning not fit for traffic-choked streets & tiny mall parking slots. Can't even make the innermost lane of a typical U-turn slot, Innovas turn like they are 18-wheelers! lolz.
Delete^Hope you can have a "cost of ownership" review of this vehicle in the near future, say for a 5 year period for a diesel and gas G variant. TIA!
ReplyDeletesir uly, i thought this 2.8 gd engine is detuned.
ReplyDeleteDe-tuned for torque. 171 horsepower still.
DeleteMight give the MU-X a run for its money......
ReplyDeleteMUV-X better ...
DeleteVery impressive all new Innova. Even the huge Starex will now be threatened with the power of the all new Innova. And with the torque of 360 nm starts at 1,200 rpm up to 2,400 rpm, this all new Innova will be fun to drive!
ReplyDeletethe hi-ace only has 105 hp, people still buy it
Deletethe starex vgt has 175 hp, 405 nm people still buy it
I dont think most of the people who wants to buy a van will consider this.
they buy vans because they want to carry a lot of people not its engine power.
the more people you carry on the vehicle the more power you need :)
Deletetypical toyota product. only for the die hard toyota patrons.
ReplyDeleteBased on your initial impressions sir, How was NVH compared to Mu-X? The price for the G is almost the same as the LS-A, but the G variant has 7 airbags. So i think NVH would be the deal breaker.
ReplyDeleteIt gives a softer ride compared to the PPV SUVs I've tested with the exception of the Everest which I've yet to try on Philippine roads.
DeleteThe G only has 3 airbags. The V is the one with 7.
the 1.575mill grand carnival is starting to make sense now actually
ReplyDeleteFortuner First drive please !!!
ReplyDeleteFortuner? Here's the executive summary: typical 3rd-world truck-based ride & handling. Don't drive it like a proper SUV/CUV since it is tipover/rollover-prone, and it has a wide turning radius and very low steering ratio that you'd find it very difficult or impossible to take the 1st lane of a U-turn slot or maneuver in traffic or mall parking lots.
ReplyDeleteAmpalaya Man in the house... Too much bitterness
DeleteSo...... You've driven one? You're lucky if that's the case.
DeleteWhy would I be bitter, I drive a 1st-world SUV! I have better standards than you poor Toyota fanboys.
DeletePuro ka 3rd-world, truck-based! We all know that. 1st world suv pala gusto mo eh bat ka andito? You compared innova to a 18-wheeler truck? Bakit, nakapag maneho ka na ba ng 18-wheeler?! How about innova? U cant make a u-turn or Park an Innova sa malls?! Kaya nagkaka leche traffic sa Metro Manila dahil sa mga taong tulad mo na di marunong mag drive. Simpleng gawain, u-turn at park lang nahihirapan ka pa?!! Dapat sayo FORD para may park assist! 1st world SUV ka dyan! Di naman marunong mag Park at U-turn!
DeleteI like the way you express your anger, Poor Boy. I read your comment aloud, complete with emotion. You should have a car blog of your own. Maraming magbabasa sayo, for sure. Really.
Delete^ Bading! nababasa na kita sa ibang blogs, puro ka lang panira, burat! get a life faggot! har har
Deleteat ano naman ang 1st world SUV mo aber...bigay ng tatay mo na sya din ang nagpapagas... sheesh...
ReplyDeleteAmpalaya Man in the house... Too much bitterness
DeleteSpec down! It's kinda different with Thailand and Indonesian Market, thumbs down to Toyota PH.
ReplyDeletehi Uly,
ReplyDeleteis a 2nd row captain chair available here?
It's available for the V grade
DeleteKudos to the Toyota stylists -- they've added a bit of pizzaz to what has always been a mundane appliance.
ReplyDeleteSir,
ReplyDeleteIs an 8-seater optional on V?
No. The V comes with second-row Captain's Seats.
DeleteTy Sir
ReplyDeleteIs it available in manual transmission?
ReplyDeleteG is available with a diesel MT. Gas AT only.
DeleteIt's amazing how the innova has a better infotainment system than the Land Cruiser.
ReplyDeletePuro ka 3rd world truck based mpv! Haha siguro nagsisisi ka sa nabili mong sasakyan na "1st world suv"and as a result nagiging bitter ka kasi mali napili mo hahaha kahit saan website ka magpunta or studies about reliability and durability number one ang lexus at toyota. At isa pa yang first world suv mo is built to impress not to last. Konting sira lang standby yan suv mo for months or even years dahil walang parts na available. Minsan d yan sa mahal ng suv mo minsan dapat mo rin ibagay ang sasakyan na pipiliin mo sa lugar kung san ka naka tira haha liit ng utak mo puro pa yabang ang laman
ReplyDeletelooks nice. I've been looking forward to this review... but a bit disappointed with the pricing and the engine specs... I don't need a 2.8 engine to bring my kids to school... this is a bit of a let down... will probably just wait for the 2.4 version before considering buying an Innova... tsk3x
ReplyDeleteGud day sir Uly at mga sir!
ReplyDeleteI'm planning to buy an innova but I can't really decide between the last and the latest generation that is now available in the market. I have a family of 7-8 pax and we love to travel a lot! I am more on economical side than style given that the latest innova has 2.8 engine. I will go with diesel for sure. If that's the case,will these old and new version have different mileage? Should I buy an old version or wait for the latest? In the long run which one will cum out as more cost efficient? I'll be driving mostly outside the city. And which variant should I opt to buy - E diesel or G diesel?
Looking forward to ur positive response. Thank you and GOD BLESS!
Sir Uls,
ReplyDeleteAno po b ang mga available colors s market natin?
I see red and blue in the blog, I didn't see those choices of color in other sites. They had silver, alumina Jade, black, white, avant bronze, metallic grey.
DeleteI see red and blue in the blog, I didn't see those choices of color in other sites. They had silver, alumina Jade, black, white, avant bronze, metallic grey.
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ReplyDeleteFact: 95% of Innova drivers are douchebags. Mga abusado, akala nila kung sino sila sa daan. Yung mga tipong mahilig mag counterflow. Well, honestly pati na din mga fortuner at montero abusado din. In fact all owners 3rd world vehicles ay abusado.
ReplyDeleteHi Sir Uly,
ReplyDeleteDoes the G variant sport leather seats? TIA!
Sir Uly,
ReplyDeletewould you say that the Mobilio RS can actually and/or directly compete with this new Innova? Given that they are both 7-seater MPV's? And disregarding price, which one would you prefer?
You still can't compare these two.
DeleteThe Mobilio is a small MPV that falls in the same category as the Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Avanza. In that regard, it can carry 7 adults, yes, but the comfort is a bit compromised. Also, when all the seats are up, there's not much luggage space to speak of.
Meanwhile, the Innova is a larger, more robust MPV with a ladder frame construction and diesel engine. It can swallow 8 people much easier and still have some room leftover for luggage. It's also taller and higher, better in tackling rough roads at the expense of a more truck-like driving experience.
Bottom line? If you find yourself driving alone and just needing the additional row of seats once a week, the Mobilio will be just fine. It's also easier to park and maneuver if you work in places such as Makati or Ortigas.
However, if you need the seats most of the time (or the luggage space) and travel long distances regularly, go for the Innova.
sir uly im planning on buying this.. been waiting for this since last year.. my question is does the E diesel comes with automatic trans? and whats the difference between the E and the G variant beside its infotainment? thank you.. hoping for your feed back.
ReplyDeletesir uly im planning on buying this.. been waiting for this since last year.. my question is does the E diesel comes with automatic trans? and whats the difference between the E and the G variant beside its infotainment? thank you.. hoping for your feed back.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.carguide.ph/2016/02/all-you-need-to-know-about-2016-toyota.html
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ReplyDeletePlease do a review about the 2.8v!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhich variant(s) has the engine start/stop button?
ReplyDeleteHi. I am still contemplating in what to buy. A woman here with a fam of 3. What are the best for me? Innova or ecosport? Hoping for you reply. Thanks
ReplyDeleteHi Ma'am. Just my opinion. Go for Innova. I checked the Ecosport when it came out, it has a tight interior space. I have a 2 year old daughter, ok naman space ng suv sa amin lalo pag mall and out of town, halos pareho sa innova. If you're considering the space inside, go for the Innova.
DeleteButi pa kayo may pambili..na-miss ko tuloy iyong cimarron, harabas, ford fiera & toyota tamaraw
ReplyDeleteCimarron the best. May butas sa harap para malakas hangin.
DeleteHi Mr Ulysses. Do you have any info about the water wading capability of the 2016 innova? With the kind of rainy season we have now a days, wading capability is on top of my must haves in choosing a vehicle. I hope you can enlighten me on this matter. Thanks in advance. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteWe threw this question at the IMV chief engineer and he didn't to give specifics. However, he said 400-500 mm is a safe number.
Deletepuro kayo 3rd world suv ano ba ibig sabihin mo? truck based=body on frame=3rd world? eh ano twag mo sa amg g63 na 10million dito? 3rd world din? yun body-on-frame din? sa australia, first world sila pero madami pa rin amy gusto ng truck bsed? tingin mo lang porke mahina sa US ang truck based suv bulok na agad? sa US nga meron 4runner para sa truckbased at highlander para sa CUV? land cruiser is truck based too. body on frame has its benefits.
ReplyDeleteGood pm. Should I go for Innova V or Kia Carnival 11?
ReplyDeletetoyota website and other car review sites states that innova J dsl MT displacement is 1998 cc. but it is advertised as 2.8 innova J. what is the true displacement of the J dsl variant of innova?
ReplyDeleteBecause you're looking at the 2.0 Dual VVT-i gasoline.
Deletehave driven the dsl e mt variant for 1000 km in my daily drive to work and out of town trips with the whole family on weekends. for me the 2.8 displacement is just right, its a relaxed engine even on full load, hindi bitin even during uphill overtaking, i do not notice any lag on sudden intended acceleration, the brakes are more than adequate, steering is indeed heavy compared to a sedan with similar hydraulic steering, but it is not tiring to drive, makes me conscious of the vehicle's size and weight. my average fuel consumption even with 7 passengers is 13 to 14 km/li mixed city and highway speeds of 100kph or more on normal mode. switching to power mode propels this innova twice the speed at half the press on the gas pedal. at this vehicle's current price, you're better off with a lower priced suv if your priority is the high stance, road presence and off road capability and other accessories. but if what you need is a spacious, comfortable, quiet ride for 8 adults, and a fast fuel efficient vehicle that is also suitable for spirited daily drive to work, with just the basic necessities and accessories, this variant will do.
ReplyDeletewell-taken bro
ReplyDeleteSir Uly, may improvement po ba yun turning radius ng 2016 innova as compared to the old models?
ReplyDeleteGood Eve! Just want to ask if it is more advisable for me to go innova before this latest model? I will be using the it for both business and family. TIA
ReplyDeleteHi Sir Uly, Ask ko lang which has the better/faster engine, Fortuner 2.4 G MT or Innova 2.8G MT? Thanks
ReplyDeleteHi po me and my family are planning to buy an innova my question budget wisely medjo hirap kami sa e variant tipid mode kasi eh. Any major difference ba between e and j variant? Aside sa mags, speakers and foglights?
ReplyDeleteGanda ng Innova, bang for the buck specially the G variant. One can never go wrong with this all new Innova. Cheap spare parts/maintenance, excellent resale value, wouldn't feel less compared to SUVs, Powerful engine, Roomy interior, lots of toys. Man I truly love this car.
ReplyDelete2.8 innova g manual dsl or 2.4 fortuner g manual dsl? Ano po mas maganda?
ReplyDeleteMeron na po bang update regarding sa fuel consumption nito? Thanks!
ReplyDelete2.8 innova g manual dsl or 2.4 fortuner g manual dsl? Ano po mas maganda?
ReplyDeletei wonder about un sa automatic un sinasabing jerky daw...
ReplyDeleteang laki ng tinaas ng price ng innova... sana meron pa un older model. ..
i wonder about un sa automatic un sinasabing jerky daw...
ReplyDeleteang laki ng tinaas ng price ng innova... sana meron pa un older model. ..
i have a new innova 2016 dsl j mt.... and i was amaze coz its so fast and super tipid... walang binatbat ang mux, hi ace at montero...
ReplyDeleteHi Sir Ully,
ReplyDeleteGood day. Any idea if there is any chance that Toyota will going to release Gray Metallic color for Toyota Innova 2016?
Thanks
Hi sir uly,
ReplyDeleteI just wanna ask if what would you prefer the innova G vs monterosport GLS? Since their price is almost the same because of the 200k discount from the monterosport GLS variant. So basically same price n cla @1.350M.. Thanks for the response.
Actually, you won't like this answer, but the Innova is a much more practical family vehicle. The space isn't compromised, the ride is better, and the ingress/egress is much easier.
DeleteI actually have the same question. Thank you for the answer.
DeleteThe good old Daddy's car got even better.
ReplyDeleteHi sir Uly,
ReplyDeleteI've test driven both Innova 2016 G and Fortuner 2016 G variant. But until now I still cant decide which one should I take. Should I go for Innova V instead of Fortuner G considering that Innova V is loaded with more safety & driver assist features or should I go for Fortuner G for better look and higher ground clearance. Your advise is well-appreciated.
By the way, here're some points of consideration.
*Engine - Innova 2.8 V AT or Fortuner 2.4 G AT?
*Ride handling and comfort
-Vehicle usage:
*90% - daily ride for kids hatid-sundo (city drive pero a lot of potholes)
*5% - grocery thing evry 2 weeks
5% - Yearly out town trip 7-8 pax(malubak, mountaneous roads and provincial highways)
Maraming salamat po sir Uly...sana maliwagan na...
Hi.
DeleteI will allow you to read the Innova review first:
http://www.carguide.ph/2016/06/review-2016-toyota-innova-28-v.html
Now, going to your question...I'd pick the Innova. Yes, it looks like a mommy car and it won't have the same "porma" factor as the Fortuner. But let's face it: it has a more comfortable ride, roomier interior, bigger cargo space.
In fact, the only thing the Fortuner has going for it is the tall ride height which gives you 200-mm more water wading depth.
Based on your requirements though, it seems the Innova is better fit for you. In fact, you don't have to splurge on the 2.8 V. You can go for the 2.8 G and still have great value.
Kudos sir Uly!
DeleteThank you for the very comprehensive points. My wifey as well picked Innova for a more practical family vehicle.
Kudos sir Uly!
DeleteThank you for the very comprehensive points. My wifey as well picked Innova for a more practical family vehicle.
Great answer, Sir Uly. A very practical comparison between the two.
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ReplyDeleteSir Uly,
ReplyDeletei would like ask gas consumption of 2016 innova J gas? Is is true na 10-12km per Liter? Im planning to buy kasi the J gas instead of the diesel eh
See chart:
Deletehttp://www.carguide.ph/2016/05/just-how-fuel-efficient-are-new-toyota.html
Personally, I doubt the gas will reach 10-12 km/L unless highway driving. Expect something more along the lines of 6--8 km/L in the city.
Sir Uly, thanks for this article and responses to inquiries. It helped me decide if I will choose Innova over other SUVs. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteSir Uly,
ReplyDeletebase dun chart ng carguide ang fuel efficient ng innova G 2016 diesel automatic/manual, parang mas matipid pa ang automatic kaysa manual tranny?paki explain po bakit mas tipid ang matic engine. manual po kasi ang prepared ko dahil sa alam ko mas tipid sya, ngayon kung mas tipid po ang matic baka mag matic na lang po ako .Thank you.
Sir Uly,
ReplyDeleteI would like to get the innova 2.8V A/T.. But I prefer the 2nd row seat to be bench type.
Possible bang I request na ang install yung bench type instead of the captain seat?
Thank you..
Sir,
ReplyDeleteCan you provide fuel consumption comparison of both Manual and Automatic G Variants?
Planning to buy an Innova
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ReplyDeleteSir uly, nice review. Im planning to buy a innova but im having a hard time deciding which variant ito get, the j or the e, budgetwise the j is a good choice compare to the e. Aside from the steels rims, what other distinguishable difference from the 2. They have airbugs, electric power windows, is the engine different from the top variants? Thanks so much
ReplyDeleteCheck this link:
Deletehttp://www.carguide.ph/2016/02/all-you-need-to-know-about-2016-toyota.html
Sir, I just purchased toyota innova e 2016 m/t. Is it true that fuel consumption is high at first, and eventually will get low? Base on my computation I am getting 6.7 km/l with 700km mileage.
ReplyDeleteSir, which is better 2.8 G M/T or E?
ReplyDeleteSir uly help me planning to buy 2.0 gas j variant what is the different of 2.8? Thank u
ReplyDeleteHi Sir Uly. Which is better, Toyota Innova G or Innova Touring Sport?
ReplyDeletePlanning to buy Toyota Innova pero naguluhan kmi pumili ng variant...gusto kc nmin ng g variant 2.0 pero Sabi nila Mahal daw ang gas.ngaun naisip ko touring sports para dsl pero Ganda kc ng interior ng g variant 😂...ano po ba ang maganda?
ReplyDeleteHelp me po para makapag isip ng Tama...ano po ba talaga ang maganda gas or dsl pagdating sa Innova?
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