UPDATE (26 Dec 05)
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I’ve been driving this car now for 5 months and I stand by my earlier review. It is an extremely good car - very comfortable and very spacious. The fuel consumption seems to be higher than expected - 7 kms/ltr on average in city conditions with the aircon on. Parking continues to be a problem especially reversing. I have to be very careful that there are no unseen obstructions (animals/stones/children etc) hiding behind the car before I reverse. The drive is getting more and more comfortable with the gear shift not so ’’hard’’ any more. The suspension appears to be softer now and the steering more responsive. Perhaps I am more used to the car now. I find the Innova very forgiving when it comes to the gear shift as I am a rough driver (according to my dad). The Innova doesnt ’’grumble’’ when the gear is shifted too early or too late - it seems to take everything in its stride. I retract my statement about the Innova not winning any races - I find the pickup excellent and very responsive (dont forget that I am using the petrol version). But that said, I would not like to travel at high speeds in this car.
I need to take the car in to the workshop to check the aircon - there is a musty smell emitted when only the fan is started. So far that has been the only problem I have faced. I will keep updating this review as and when I face problems.
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I moved up (or down, depending on your point of view) from a Honda city (1.5 exi) to a Toyota Innova because I wanted a larger car for my family. Initially I was a bit doubtful of my decision because of the sheer bulk of the Innova. But once you begin driving it, the Innova tends to become an extension of you. I bought the 7 seater, V version (petrol) because I dont travel long distances. Besides, the petrol version is more ’’alive’’ and responsive. My thoughts on the Innova are penned below - strictly
non-technical stuff because you can get all the technical details from the brochure. Pardon me if I do not refer to the Innova as a MPV - its a car as far as I am concerned.
The first thing that strikes you about the Innova is its size - its really big! It looks long and wide plus its quite high. Maybe thats why in the ads, they always show the front view of the Innova. They dont want to scare customers away!!!!
The 2 ltr engine is smooth and refined, ’’velvet soft’’ as the reviews say. You can feel the power begging to be unleashed. Overtaking is no problem as long as you allow for the length of the car. What is amazing is the silence in the cabin when driving, even with the A/C on. The driver can comfortably have a quiet conversation with the passenger in the last row. So far I have been averaging 8-9 kms per litre. The Innova gear shift is ’’hard’’ compared to a sedan (honda city for example) but you get used to it. Driving the car isnt a problem, however parking (read reversing) is difficult at the best of times. If you want to take your Innova into the city, make sure that you have
ample parking space available. Steering is very good and the turning circle is reasonable. Because of the size and weight of the car (1.5 Tons) once the Innova picks up speed, it does feel as if the car is hurtling down the road and cant be stopped. But never fear, the ABS does an admirable job and comes into play when you suddenly slam the brakes. The Innova wont win any races but is perfect for cruising.
The interiors are awesome and if you throw in some decent seat covers you will feel as if you are sitting on a comfortable sofa!! Leg space is ample and there is no problem for the person sitting behind a tall driver, with the seat pushed back to its limit. The last row is not uncomfortable but leg room is restricted. Its ideally suited for two children. Never mind that the V version is called a 7 seater, it can comfortably seat only 6. Storage space behind the last row is limited but can be increased hugely by folding up the last row of seats.
The stereo system is adequate- you get a CD player (single CD which can play audio as well as mp3 cds), tape and radio. The six speakers belt out decent sound which is satisfactory if you dont have the money to shell out for a good system. One good thing is that the volume control for the stereo is on the driver’s side.
The suspension is satisfactory and the car goes over Indian roads (read potholes) with minimum fuss. Ground clearance is very good even when fully loaded but the suspension does feel a bit stiff. I have not yet scraped the bottom of my Innova over Mumbai’s speed breakers as I did on a regular basis in my Honda City. Just dont expect
the smooth ride you get in other cars.
The Innova has dual airconditioners which offer decent cooling but dont expect rapid cooling - because of the size of the cabin. The rear aircon is just about satisfactory, with the bulk of the cooling done by the dashboard aircon. Wish Toyota had provided a automatic temperature control system but you cant get everything!
The V version comes with power windows, central locking, ABS, airbags (for front seats), adjustable steering etc etc. Toyota hasnt missed much in this car. The controls for the windshield wipers (front and rear) are confusing and you tend to mix them up.
Over all the car is ’’value for money’’. It gives you almost everything you need in a car. This car is ideal for people who want a ’’life time’’ car. In any case, going back to a ’’small’’ sedan after the Innova will be difficult, if not impossible!!!The only reason would be parking space! The ’’on road’’ price for Mumbai is 10.5 L - add another 50 K for accessories....spoiler, mats, seat covers, bumper protectors etc etc. Toyota gives you a 3 yr warranty or 100, 000 kms (which ever is earlier).
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