The facelifted Toyota Innova Hycross will be launched in India on November 26. The update includes styling tweaks and a big mechanical change with the addition of a flex-fuel hybrid engine. This will mark the first major update for the popular three row MPV since being introduced into the country back in late 2022. The face lift will focus on updating the front grille with more of a resemblance to Toyotas design language, including some Hilux inspired features.
There will be a wider front grille, redesigned full LED headlamps with new headlamp signature, redesigned front bumper and larger alloy wheels (up to 18″). The sides and rear are likely to look the same but there will be some updates to the tail lamps and rear bumper to give a more modern and clean look. Inside it will have some nice updates.
The dashboard will get an upgrade with a larger 12.3″ touchscreen infotainment system and updated digital dashboards, especially on hybrid variants. The interior will also have soft touch surfaces, better upholstery and nicer ambient lighting to upgrade the premium feel that has made this MPV popular with families. The Hybrid version will also have features such as ventilated seats, electric adjustment, panoramic roof and good connectivity. The powertrain will include the standard 2.0L naturally aspirated petrol and CVT. Getting good performance with an ARAI efficiency rating of around 16kmpl. The strong hybrid engine will again be the best for efficiency with a claimed 23.24kmpl.
This utilises the 2.0L petrol engine in conjunction with an electric motor and e-CVT to produce around 181-186bhp. The highlight of this update is the addition of the much anticipated flex-fuel hybrid engine. Based on the prototype shown earlier it adapts the 2.0L engine to run on fuel blends of Ethanol up to E85. Corrosion resistant parts have been added, an ethanol sensor, upgraded fuel system, cold start improvements and special engine management. Toyota have mentioned that they can achieve up to 50% better efficiency in certain conditions and reduced emissions.
This makes the flex-fuel hybrid a realistic next step towards using more bio fuels in India. The price of this updated Innova Hycross will remain competitive, likely to be priced between Rs 20-33 lakh ex-showroom. It will continue to appeal to those who want a large, reliable and premium vehicle to transport their family. With a nicer design and introduction of flex-fuel hybrid engines this upgrade shows Toyotas commitment to providing practical electrified vehicles and alternative fuels. This will help to make this one of the most popular choices in the premium MPV segment.