2021 Toyota Innova: Expectations and what we know so far

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has been launching a new model one after another this 2020. TMP introduced updated versions of its vehicles such as the Vios subcompact sedan, Wigo hatchback, Hilux pickup truck, and Fortuner midsize SUV. The Toyota Corolla Cross has also successfully made its way into the local lineup. 

With the recent updates, we can expect that the update for the Toyota Innova MPV is just around the corner. Although TMP hasn’t released any word regarding its MPV, there are already updated Innovas seen in other ASEAN markets such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

These are the early signs that TMP could indeed bring in the new Innova. For this reason, let’s take a look at the possible changes we can expect to see from the 2021 Toyota Innova.

2021 Toyota Innova: Exterior

Looking at the changes in the new Vios, Fortuner, Wigo, and Hilux, there is a common design update among the four. All of these Toyota vehicles come with sleeker and sportier looks. This could be a design language that the Japanese marque is adapting moving forward.

And yes, this can be seen in the front fascia of the 2021 Toyota Innova in Vietnam. It looks like the updated front fascia on the Hilux, only in a more MPV approach. The front grille is now sleeker and has more slats, while the chrome trims are now all blacked-out.

The 2021 Toyota Innova

The turn signals are housed with black trims and the fog lamps are relocated to the bottom of the new black-trimmed front bumper. The headlights remain to be the same as compared to the current model but its housing now extends in the bumper by an inch or two.

Unfortunately, the sides and rear of the Innova are likely to be untouched except for the Indonesian-spec Innova that has a black panel on the rear end. Another change includes a new two-tone alloy wheel that gives the Innova a sportier look.

>>> Related: Facelifted 2021 Innova makes you think which brand-new Toyota to buy

2021 Toyota Innova: Interior

The front exterior might have received relatively good updates, but the interior doesn’t. That is based upon the photos of the 2021 Toyota Innova in both Vietnam and Indonesia. The MPV will still be hosting passengers with the same interior complemented by ambient lights.

For the 2021 model, the Innova is expected to carry over the current interior

The photos of the Innova in Vietnam show that it is equipped with manual airconditioning dials. This means that the Innova shown is either an E or G variant only, not the top-spec V variant. Although unlikely, we can still expect minor updates on the Philippine-spec Innova V variant for 2021.

As for the current model, the design of the dashboard, steering wheel, and seats all still look relatively new. With that being said, this could be a case for “if it ain’t broke it, don’t fix it.”

2021 Toyota Innova: On-board tech and safety features

With the integration of the Toyota Safety Sense in the updated Toyota Fortuner, the Innova top-spec V variant could also potentially offer it for 2021. The Toyota Safety Sense comes with sophisticated driver-assist features such as a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.

The black trims create a sporty feel to the Innova

We can expect that the Toyota Innova could come with a larger 9-inch infotainment screen as it is available in some variants in other markets.

2021 Toyota Innova: Engine and performance

No engine specifications have been revealed in the Toyota Innova seen in Vietnam. But we can expect that the local-spec Innova will be carrying over the same 2.0-liter gasoline engine or 2.8-liter diesel engine, depending on the variant.

Or another possibility is that TMP could offer all Innova variants with a diesel engine only. This idea is not farfetched since TMP did this with the 2021 Fortuner.

Seems like the new Innova will still come with the same rear fascia

As a side note, the updated Toyota Fortuner received a power bump that makes it now capable of producing 500 Nm of torque. The 2.8-liter diesel engine of the Innova currently makes a maximum output of 360 Nm of torque. Although unnecessary, it would still be nice to see the Toyota MPV put up at least 450 Nm of torque.

>>> Related: 2021 Toyota Innova facelift debuts in Indonesia

2021 Toyota Innova: Final thoughts

Overall, the changes on the facelifted Innova is subtle, yet enough to keep it competing at a high level. The 2021 Toyota Innova is still a top option for those who want a 7-seater family vehicle that does the job well without compromising frugality. The Toyota Innova doesn't have a direct rival in the market, but it's currently challenged by gasoline-powered SUV-looking MPVs such as the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, Honda BR-V, and Suzuki XL7 in terms of price point. The Maxus G50, a newcomer that rivals the Innova size-wise, is also a notable addition to the MPV segment this year. 

Which do you prefer, the facelifted model or this one? (2020 model shown)

As such, local Toyota fans could have a difficult time deciding on which new vehicle to buy due to its revamped model lineup. With that in mind, are you willing to wait for TMP to bring the facelifted Innova?

Well, as of this writing, TMP has yet to announce the launch date of the 2021 Innova in the Philippines. But we can expect that the new Innova will be launched in the first quarter of 2021.   

2021 Toyota Innova: Expected price

The updated Toyota vehicles for 2020 such as the Toyota Vios, Hilux, Fortuner, and Wigo all had price bumps. This seems to be like a usual trend of TMP in order to compensate for the newly-added features.

With the expected new features such as a 9-inch infotainment screen and Toyota Safety Sense, it is possible that the 2021 Toyota Innova will get a significant price hike, especially for the top-spec V variant. The base J variant is expected to get a slight price bump only to keep it as affordable as possible. 

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