2023 Toyota Innova Zenix debuts – TNGA-based MPV; 3rd-gen is larger, gets hybrid power and active safety

2023 Toyota Innova Zenix debuts – TNGA-based MPV; 3rd-gen is larger, gets hybrid power and active safety

Here it is, the all-new Toyota Innova. Officially called the Kijang Innova Zenix in Indonesia where it has just made its global debut, the redesigned MPV adds a new chapter to the Kijang story that goes back 45 years and over two million units sold (this includes older models that were simply known as the Kijang or internally as the Toyota Utility Vehicle).

UPDATE: The Toyota Innova Zenix has been launched in Malaysia with pricing starting from RM165,000.

While the Kijang name holds a lot of weight in Indonesia, the rest of us will simply refer to the third-generation MPV as the Innova. In its latest form, the Innova represents a significant departure from its predecessors in many aspects, starting with what’s beneath the metal.

Where previous versions of the MPV were built on the IMV ladder frame chassis also used by the Hilux and Fortuner, the latest Innova makes the switch to a monocoque construction based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), specifically the GA-C variant of the platform.

2023 Toyota Innova Zenix debuts – TNGA-based MPV; 3rd-gen is larger, gets hybrid power and active safety

As such, the longitudinal-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive layout is no more, replaced with a transversely-mounted engine and front-wheel drive setup instead. According to Toyota, the new platform allows the vehicle’s overhangs to be reduced and wheelbase extended, the latter now measuring 2,850 mm compared to 2,750 mm previously.

Other dimensions include a length of 4,755 mm (+20 mm) and a width of 1,850 mm (+20 mm), while unchanged is the height at 1,795 mm. Toyota decided to maintain the same approach and departure angles of the second-generation model, and the same goes for the ride height of 185 mm.

Visually, the latest Innova gains some SUV-like design cues with its sculpted sides as well as black body cladding on the wheel arches and lower sections of the doors. Meanwhile, the front end features a hexagonal-shaped grille and angular headlamps that are separated from the slim lower intake by a horizontal LED light strips set on a wide-width H-shaped panel.

2023 Toyota Innova Zenix debuts – TNGA-based MPV; 3rd-gen is larger, gets hybrid power and active safety

Viewed from the side, the Innova boasts a more dynamic profile that is less boxy because of the D-pillars being moved forwards and the A-pillars shifted further back. At the rear, the taillights have a simpler shape than before, which, when combined with the upright tailgate, echoes the RAV4.

Inside, the dashboard is new and has a more elegant appearance compared to the swoops and curves of the past. Contrasting trim colours accentuate the dash’s layers, with the focal point being the floating centre console that integrates with the centre stack. This area accommodates the gear lever, digital controls for the air-conditioning system, centre air vents and a 9/10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Elsewhere, there’s a separate console between the front seats for the cupholders, USB ports and armrest. Without the need for a prop shaft to the rear wheels, the Innova boasts increased interior space than before, with certain variants being equipped with second-row captain chairs that have ottomans.

The captain chair variants will be 7 seaters, with seats configured in a 2-2-3 configuration, while the bench seat variant will be an 8 seater, with seats configured in a 2-3-3 configuration.

2023 Toyota Innova Zenix debuts – TNGA-based MPV; 3rd-gen is larger, gets hybrid power and active safety

As for other available equipment, the Innova can be had with wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inches, LED headlamps, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, 10-inch dual rear seat entertainment screens, a panoramic roof, and crucially, the Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety and driver assistance systems (includes autonomous emergency braking).

It was already made known that the new Innova will get hybrid power, and thanks to the TNGA platform, the Innova gets it for the first time. The setup consists of a Dynamic Force engine – the M20A-FXS 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder – that serves up 152 PS at 6,000 rpm and 187 Nm of torque from 4,400 to 5,200 rpm.

This is augmented by an electric motor rated at 113 PS and 205 Nm for a total system output of 186 PS. Toyota says a nickel–metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery was preferred due to Indonesia’s hot weather, and it is stored under the two front seats so as not to take up rear cabin and boot space.

Besides the hybrid powertrain, the Innova will also be offered in Indonesia with the M20A-FKS 2.0 litre mill rated at 174 PS at 6,600 rpm and 205 Nm from 4,500 to 4,900 rpm. Both setups also feature a CVT (e-CVT for the hybrid) and have higher outputs than the outgoing 1TR-FE 2.0 litre unit that serves up 139 PS and 183 Nm.

The second-generation Innova was also available with the 2GD-FTV 2.4 litre turbodiesel in Indonesia, which offers more torque at 360 Nm and inferior horsepower at 149 PS, but there’s no option for an oil burner with the third generation.

In Indonesia, the new Innova is available in two petrol-only grades, namely the G for 419 million rupiah (RM121,891) and V for IDR467 million (RM135,854). The hybrid powertrain also comes in G and V grades, priced at IDR458 million (RM133,246) and INR522.15 million (RM151,909) respectively.

The hybrid also gains an additional top-spec Q that goes for IDR601.15 million (RM174,893), and the range-topper as well as V can be had with a Modellista accessories for an extra IDR9.85 million (RM2,866).

With these figures, the new 2023 Innova now has a higher price range (RM121,891 to RM174,893) compared to its immediate predecessor that ranged from IDR369.6 million to IDR471.9 million (RM107,521 to RM137,281).

So, what do you think of the latest Innova? Are you hoping and looking forward to the MPV’s arrival in Malaysia?

Click to enlarge











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Gerard Lye

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

 

Comments

  • Wondering why the meter cluster is still not fully digital. Even the Veloz has them.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 15
    • There is if you look at the photo

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
    • vistula on Nov 22, 2022 at 10:53 am

      The hybrid variant has all screen digital meter cluster

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
      • Renaldi Soeryadi on Nov 22, 2022 at 12:24 pm

        But not all. Only the middle one where the speedometer and data interpretation is digital, else the energy meter, fuel and temperature gauge is still analog.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 1
    • Renaldi Soeryadi on Nov 22, 2022 at 12:37 pm

      I think that’s may due to the platform itself. The TNGA-C derived product that shared with ICE counterparts using this analog-digital setup (except Prius and C-HR). Maybe, Toyota may wants to utilize one dashboard setup to every car that using the same platform.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 3
  • Sushi lover on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:13 pm

    No more uncle car. This is what we call Handsome car. Good job Toyota!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 40 Thumb down 4
  • seancorr on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:36 pm

    Wow all the recently launched Toyota’s have better interiors. This one could pass off as a SUV looking at it’s exterior design. If the 5 seater Cross is too small for your family then this would be a good option and lo and behold, it has an electric parking brake!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 0
  • DonkeyKong on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:40 pm

    Looks like Toyota has another winner on its hands. Their current design language has broad appeal, even with the futuristic models like the Prius.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 2
  • Cynthia on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:43 pm

    their innova also go sunroof, launch in malaysia confirm nothing, owh i forgot Malaysia hot, indonesia thailand all four season countries haha.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 4
  • khairul hafiz on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:44 pm

    mewah betol model kali nie…
    good job Toyota..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 1
  • Seribu on Nov 21, 2022 at 5:57 pm

    Nice

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • MatKoboiRembaul on Nov 21, 2022 at 6:12 pm

    Best price for a 3rd world MPV imo below 100k

    Hapuskan AP Hapuskan SRJKc

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 32 Thumb down 76
    • Kosova on Nov 22, 2022 at 12:53 pm

      Dulu Kan Ada Ertiga, Naza Citra, Naza Ria

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
    • MakKauHijau on Jan 09, 2023 at 1:13 am

      Orang macam ni la kena hapuskan di malaysia. tak ada otak punya orang.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 7
    • Hidup umno on Jan 12, 2023 at 12:35 am

      Sokong! Hapuskan AP dan SRJKc

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 16
    • arro2 on Jan 29, 2023 at 2:35 pm

      hapuskan srjkc? ramai budak melayu yg berpusu nak masuk srjkc la bodoh.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 16 Thumb down 8
    • pg mari on Mar 07, 2023 at 11:08 pm

      Stupid guy, even Malay is going to join srjkc. Malu betul.

      Pui…
      Otak you karat!
      besok you pergi makan tahi.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 9
    • Wajib on Apr 25, 2023 at 8:56 pm

      Ko nak hapuskan SJKc pun orang cino tak nak belajar kat SRK

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 3
  • Mikasa on Nov 21, 2022 at 6:16 pm

    Take my money …. been waiting so long for these. Unless Honda Malaysia can provide 7 seater option for new CRV

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 17 Thumb down 0
    • mohd firdaus on Apr 01, 2023 at 5:21 pm

      i agree if zenix will face to face with crv which one that offer a lower price 7 seatersuv/crossover with good engine power will be the winner

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • Nice, Toyota TNGA Zenix Hycross

    2.0DynamicForce-EV is desired.

    Can trade in VW Touareg, cruising with low fc, relaxing life,
    2nd rows with thigh rest.
    ACC Adaptive Cruise Control with Toyota’s DRCC.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 0
    • Voice Control boot ✅
      Ottoman Seats ✅
      2nd Rows TV ✅
      Full Panaromic Roof ✅
      ACC Self Driving ✅
      2.0EV ✅
      Competitor- BMW X7, LandCruiser, GLS ✅

      New government should avoid spending on alphard anymore,
      This Zenix HyCross is enough.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 23 Thumb down 1
  • Judging by the amount of space veloz has inside compared to the rush after switching platforms, im sensing greater cabin space of the innova.

    Theres no option for dyanmic force 2.0 174ps + hybrid motor?

    anyway, great product by toyota.
    Hopefully Malaysian models will have top spec hybrid models with or without the ottoman chairs,
    I prefer without tho,

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 2
  • tricycle on Nov 21, 2022 at 9:32 pm

    nice design, inside out.

    Well packaged as well.

    If only it comes with turbo power, it would be a lot nicer. Diesel also would be welcome. This is a heavy vehicle for a NA 2.0 liter engine.

    The 2nd gen innova, make a lot of noise will climbing up not so steep mountain.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 0
  • Nice design, price i estimate rm150k – 160k.
    Poor man harrier

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 3
  • New lauch 2023 on Nov 21, 2022 at 10:28 pm

    Nice car indeed. Although looks like enlarge from veloz. Power is good. Hybrid price on the high side.
    I hope all comes with tyre monitoring system.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • NSP151R BEXRKE W1 W2 W3 on Nov 22, 2022 at 1:03 am

    Ini sampah

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 44
  • Outalingam Crap on Nov 22, 2022 at 1:17 am

    Front wheel drive and monocoque chassis at last – kudos,Toyota as the Kijang, Unser and Innova legacy has come pretty far indeed!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • RichSon on Nov 22, 2022 at 7:18 am

    “Innova kosong” satu….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • Piano on Nov 22, 2022 at 7:37 am

    Better than old Innova

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 1
  • Bangkok on Nov 22, 2022 at 8:21 am

    The chr is very successful in Thailand and 2nd generation is on it’s way soon Bangkok motor show hope they open for bookings

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • I miss Metramac on Nov 22, 2022 at 8:22 am

    Yes

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • I miss Metramac on Nov 22, 2022 at 8:23 am

    With CVT, Dynamic Force Engine for petrol and hybrid, more likely to sell like hotcakes

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Raja Kamarul on Nov 22, 2022 at 9:26 am

    I must say the evolution from the Unser to the Innova to this all-new version is amazing. The Innova was always on the list of people that needed seat count and/or cargo volume (dual purpose cars for some tradesman families). But the technical set-up and engine wa a put off, at least for me.

    This is now a proper vehicle that can be considered when it is launched here.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 0
  • Funny le on Nov 22, 2022 at 9:45 am

    Wow, is innova a global car? All i know is a sea car. And it got the dynamic force engine. Our corrolla still got the dinosaur engine. Not even the valvematic. Just hope it wont downgrade when it reach here.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
    • Squid on Nov 23, 2022 at 11:33 am

      Innova is global. They’re even sold in Dubai.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
      • Funny le on Nov 24, 2022 at 11:51 am

        Eh nope, not global. Just a few countries. Not in US, EU, CHINA, not even toyota own country japan.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
      • just SEA and SA only. Not global.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • Well SA also stands for Saudi Arabia, South America, and South Africa… And yes Innova and Fortuner also available there

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • RyanT on Nov 22, 2022 at 9:54 am

    This looks more manly and worth buying than Harrier

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
  • 8481mal on Nov 22, 2022 at 10:46 am

    why dont have full rear view photo? too ugly to show?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 8
  • ISOFIX count? Come-on, some of us need this info. Hopefully 3rd row will come with at least 1.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Jennie on Nov 22, 2022 at 4:01 pm

      Better put 1@the front passenger instead,
      So it doesn’t block access and space to the rear.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Mainur Bakar. on Nov 22, 2022 at 3:29 pm

    Assalamualaikum. Semua model Toyota terbaik. Terima kaseh.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Azman ismail on Nov 22, 2022 at 3:55 pm

    Trend in with bezza 2021 installment?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Hong Yee Hong on Nov 22, 2022 at 6:32 pm

    Toyota Malaysia, let’s call ours Kajang Innova.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 4
  • the normal zenix looks meh.
    but with modellista kit it transformed into proper big handsome suv like car

    take my money! hope it priced <rm130k, will kill of alot other suv

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Some Joe on Nov 23, 2022 at 4:01 pm

    Wow in a glimpse I would say ‘Latest harrier?’

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • Toyota innova zenix is a dream car for every one’s all I hope went it reached malaysia it has the higher spec same what sold in Indonesia!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 0
  • Uncle on Nov 30, 2022 at 12:22 pm

    call me uncle but I like the 2nd gen dashboard better. But just that. Everything else is welcomed upgrades.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • I love it thank you so much on Dec 10, 2022 at 6:33 pm

    I love it thank you so much

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Tenaw on Dec 10, 2022 at 6:36 pm

    It is dream car!!!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Will definitely buy this if toyota malaysia come up with exact version like in indonesia i.e. Hybrid with Panoramic@moon@sun roof, ottoman seat etc.

    Its a shame, the toyota cross here is not similar like other asean countries. It had hold me back from buying cross. Hope the zenith didnt suffer the same as cross.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Will definitely buy this if toyota malaysia come up with exact version like in indonesia i.e. Hybrid with Panoramic@moon@sun roof, ottoman seat etc.

    Its a shame, the toyota cross here is not similar like other asean countries. It had hold me back from buying cross. Hope the zenix didnt suffer the same as cross.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • Dear toyota malaysia. We want the same specs as indonesia. Do not let us down again!!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
  • ericooo on Dec 23, 2022 at 5:05 pm

    most practical and reliable car

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Bila nak masuk Malaysia?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Noryati Binti Mohd Yunus on Mar 19, 2023 at 2:09 pm

    May I know when Toyota Innova Zenix 2023 launch in Malaysia which showroom can I visit to see the model.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Donald on Apr 14, 2023 at 11:54 am

    Unfortunately it comes with CVT transmission…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
    • Outalingam Crap on Apr 24, 2023 at 6:32 pm

      For TNGA vehicles, the CVT should be the E-CVT beltless type instead

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Mahal..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
  • nurul on Apr 30, 2023 at 12:16 pm

    Bila model ni akan keluar dkt malaysia

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Furu ODC on May 24, 2023 at 8:46 am

    Kalau spec mcm ni, maunya selling price cecah RM180k nih…
    UMW maa..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • jpwaran on Jun 05, 2023 at 11:00 pm

    Hope they bring in the diesel variant for east malaysia market

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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