Toyota Innova Crysta
A decade and counting .. Toyota hit the nail on the head when they launched the Innova in 2005 and the company is reaping benefits till date. I am sure they must not have wanted to phase out the current model.. looking at the immense success of the car but a look at the lifecycle marked by 2 facelifts, a new version became necessary.
Just like comparisons between Abhishek Bachhan and Amitabh Bachhan are inevitable, it is impossible that the new Innova Crysta not be compared with the older one. And to surpass that is a tall order.
Hiroki Nakajima, Innova Executive Chief Engineer says that the new Innova Crysta is inspired by the grandeur and toughness of a Crystal. Let’s see whether what to believe that or not.
Looks
Looks wise, it is a mixed bag. Though there are a lot of changes in the appearance the overall shape remains the same. But, still you can make out that this is a new car. The most distinguishing feature is the new grille and facia design. The chrome vertical slats in the grille are divided in two parts, the upper thicker slats and the slimmer ones at bottom. The upper slats merge the headlights to create a new look.
( A front facia comparison between the Innova Crysta and Innova)
The D pillar is another distinguishing feature. While the old Innova had the normal vanilla design, the new D pillar is at an angle and gives extra visibility to the passengers in the third row. The chrome strip on the window line is an attempt to make it look more premium (after all only the hike in prices needs to be justified).. but does not look convincing. The car also get first in class(as stated in company brochure) projector headlamps.
At the rear, the inverted lights are again a new design. The shark fin antenna and integrated rear spoiler adds to the overall looks.
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Innova Crysta |
Innova |
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Dimensions |
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Length |
4735 mm |
4585 mm |
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Width |
1830 mm |
1760 mm |
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Height |
1795 mm |
1760 mm |
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Wheelbase |
2750 mm |
2750 mm |
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Ground Clearance |
176 mm |
176 mm |
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Kerb Weight |
1805-1870 kgs |
1600 kgs |
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Boot Space |
300 litres |
300 litres |
The dimensions make it very clear that though the cars share the same wheelbase, the Innova Crysta is a much larger vehicle, so more heavier and so more spacious.
Engine and Drive
The car comes with two engine options. The company has two new GD series, assembled in India engine on offer. The 2.4 litre and the 2.8 litre. First off, you will realize that the smaller engine option is underpowered than the 2.5 litre engine on offer earlier. But what is important to note is that though the 2.4 litre engine is smaller, it is more powerful!!
The 2.4 litre engine is combined with a 5 speed manual transmission whereas buyers now get an option to buy and Automatic Transmission with the 2.8 litre engine. The AT comes with a tip-tronic function.
These things aside, the most important question is.. Is this car as good to drive as the older version?
Yes!! The power output is much better, gear shifting is good. Suspension is much more absorbent. The journey from 0-100 kmph is much shorter than earlier, albeit not as good as competition but then this car is generally not used for speeding.
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Engine |
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Type |
FTV Diesel engine with , DOHC 16 valve
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Capacity |
2755 cc |
2393 cc |
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Max Power |
174 PS@3400 rpm |
150 PS@3400 rpm |
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Max Torque |
360 NM@1200-3400 rpm |
343 NM@1400-2800 rpm |
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No. of Cylinder |
4 inline |
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Suspension |
Double wishbone with torsion bar/4 link coil spring |
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Brake |
16 inch Disc /Leading Trailing Drum |
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Min Turning Radius |
5.4 m |
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Fuel tank capacity |
54 litres |
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Kerb weight |
1805-1870 kgs |
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Seating Capacity |
7/8 seater |
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Tyre size |
205/65 R16 , 215/55 R17 |
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Price bracket |
14.70-20.78 lacs |
A complain though is that the steering feels light at high speeds on the highways and hence handling becomes a trifle difficult. Also, the new car is heavier and hence not as agile. Also, people who have driven the Innova complain that the gear was very heavy.. a complain that has been solved in the Crysta.
Comfort and Convenience
The car is definetly more upmarket than the outgoing model. With bits and pieces lifted from the Fortuner and another Toyota model which the company sells abroad, the overall impact of luxury is enhanced quite a bit.
Also the seat design – rear and front both- is very comfortable for long drives – which is what this car is essentially meant for.
Importantly, ingress and egress for the passengers sitting in the third row is not much more easier. The second row now folds literally with the pull of a lever and the extra space adds to the comfort of getting in and out of the third row. Apart from that, now sitting in the third row is also lesser of a hardship.
Convenience wise, the car has a lot to offer. The car now has 20 bottle holders!! A foldable table on the front seat is included. The six way adjustable powered driver’s seat makes it easier to find the perfect driving posture.
Higher models get wood trimming on the seat backs and doorpads, leather wrapped steering wheels with wood finish, blue mood lighting etc. The car also offers apps like Mirror Link and Ecoscore- so that you can keep a check on your fuel efficiency on earlier trips. There is a 4.2 inch Multi Information Display. Other features include Hill Assist Control, 7 SRS Airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, and GOA body.
Verdict
One of the most awaited cars of the year, it is priced between Rs. 14.70-20.78 lacs(ex-showroom Delhi). We feel Innova will always remain the preferred choice for people commuting long distances. A car within affordable limits, not as high end as the Fortuner. Additional bits are important, but primary for the Innova buyer is the ride and driving comfort, which this car offers in spades. Everything else is just cherry on the cake. And Toyota will have one big party with this cake.