Toyota traded ruggedness for refinement by changing the Innova from a BOF to a unibody in the new Zenix. Did they make the right choice?
There will always be differing opinions between those who resist, and those who embrace revolution. That has been the case so far for the Toyota Innova Zenix, and after driving it we understand why.
Looks-wise, there’s still some resemblance when you place it side-by-side with the old one, particularly in front. The grille and the headlights are pretty much in similar shape as the old Innova, albeit wider. There’s another faux grille below it to complement that signature, giving a more in-your-face look to the new model.
While the 2.0V is the base variant of the Zenix, it still gets plenty of features such as a digital and analog combination instrument cluster, a 10.1” instrument cluster with wireless CarPlay and wired Android Auto, Type A and Type C USB ports, single-zone climate control, LED ambient lighting and 6 speakers as standard.
The Innova Zenix is much better in terms of interior material, space, and ergonomics, but the older one still has that slight advantage in terms of versatility. Since you have captain seats on the second row, you’re pretty much left with a 4-seater MPV when you fold the third-row seats. Most Innova users can squeeze in up to four passengers in the second row when the back is full of luggage, but that’s simply not possible with the new model.