Toyota Innova: Variants explained

Toyota Innova became an instant hit since the time it was launched. It checked off all the right boxes that an MUV of its time should have, and then some more. Even today, the latest Innova is still one of the best selling models of Toyota. This is not only because the Innova is a capable machine, which it is, but also because Toyota kept on changing or upgrading the vehicle as per the changing times. If you look at the latest model of the Innova and the first-generation model, you’d notice that it has come a long way.

Today, Toyota UAE has a diverse product portfolio, and the Innova is a part of it. It had to be. It has created a world of its own and also a strong customer base which only keeps on growing every year. Presently, there are two variants of the Innova available in the Middle East. These are the SE and the SE Plus. Let’s talk about both of them; how they are similar and what makes them apart.

Exterior features

Irrespective of the variant you pick, the Innova doesn’t lose its charm. Toyota has done a brilliant job in designing the latest-generation model of the Innova. The front fascia has got large headlamps that give the MUV a slightly aggressive look. And the large grille tries to calm things down. The front bumper has just the right amount of sharpness thanks to the fog lamps recesses.

The side profile of the Innova is attractive as well. It doesn’t appear to be very boxy. The large windows look nice. The integrated turn signals on the outside rearview mirrors add a bit of premium look and touch. The 16-inch alloy wheels are stylish as well. The MUV also has a good ground clearance and hence sits a bit tall.

Moving towards the rear of the MUV, we are greeted by a set of striking tail lamps. They are two-piece combination units that look fantastic. And the reverse gear signal extends a bit down from the rest of the assembly. We also like the roof-mounted rear spoiler with a stop signal. This brings a bit of sportiness to the car.

To sum it all up, the Toyota Innova is a perfect balance of elegance and modern looks. That’s why it is loved and appreciated by a large number of people. Another good thing about it is that there aren’t a lot of difference between the two SE and SE plus variants in terms of aesthetics. The only major and noticeable difference is the chrome front grille which is available only the SE plus model.

Interior features

The interior of the Innova has been nicely done. The grey and silver theme along with the brown and black seat upholstery quite nice. The dashboard has got a premium feel to it perhaps because of the way it looks. The steering wheel is solid and sturdy and comes with a number of mounted controls. The SE model gets a urethane steering wheel whereas the one in the SE plus is of leather and wood-trimmed.

Also, the air conditioning system on the base model is manual while the SE plus gets automatic air conditioning. Both the variants come with features like central door locking system, power windows, cruise control, folding seats, etc. A few extra features that you’d find in the SE plus model include cargo mats, Optitron speedometer with a 4.2-inch color TFT display, chrome door handles, and large 7-inch display audio that supports Bluetooth, DVD, USB, and AUX.

Engine

Both the Toyota Innova variants are powered by the same 2.7-litre 4-cylinder, 16 valves, DOHC, Dual VVT-i engine that churns out 164 hp at 5200 rpm and generates a peak torque of 245 Nm that kicks in at 4000 rpm. There is only a single transmission available - a 6-speed automatic - that comes with both the models.

Safety features

The Toyota Innova specs have got a decent number of safety features. Both the models come with ABS, vehicle stability control, emergency brake signal, tire inflation pressure warning, dual front airbags, and child restraint system (ISOFIX). We would have liked to see more airbags as standard. The SE Plus also gets a reverse parking camera and rear centre parking sensors.

That’s it. These were the details regarding the two variants of the Innova available in the Middle East. As far as the money is concerned, the Toyota Innova price for the SE model is AED 99,700, and the SE Plus variant will set you back by AED 105,000. Both of them are available in 6 different colors - Silver Metallic, Super White, Gray Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, White Pearl, and Avant Grade Bronze Metallic.