Scoop: All-new FWD and hybrid Toyota Innova could debut in November 2022

The Toyota Innova has its roots traced back to the original Toyota Kijang, a model that put Indonesia on wheels. The Innova shares the same IMV platform as the mighty Hailak Hilux and Fortuner albeit with only a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) set-up but that soon may change.

According to a scoop obtained by OtoDriver, the next-generation Innova could see the venerable Alphard for the masses switch to a conventional front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. This could see the Innova following the footsteps of its smaller and immensely popular brother, the Avanza which swapped RWD for FWD in the latest generation.

According to the Indonesian automotive media’s source, the all-new Innova could be launched in November 2022 with an FWD layout and an additional hybrid variant.

Codenamed Project 560B, the all-new Innova could also be ditching the diesel-powered variants. That said, the all-new FWD Innova could be sold alongside the outgoing RWD Innova which would likely be offered for fleet usage.

Also read: RWD is not dead, Toyota will continue to offer the old Toyota Avanza as a new car in Indonesia

Still, the source has refused to divulge any further information on the next-gen Innova’s platform as well as the type of powertrains used. We might see the all-new 7-seater wave goodbye to the IMV platform for a more modern TNGA platform, which we praised for its comfort.

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With Toyota being a pioneer in hybrid vehicle technology, it remains to be seen what powertrain will the Innova Hybrid receive. OtoDriver is speculating between three engines – the 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE that is used on the Corolla Cross Hybrid, the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force A25A-FXS from the Camry Hybrid, and the 2.5-litre 2AR-FXE unit from the Alphard Hybrid.

Also read: 2022 CKD Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid launching in Malaysia on 14-Jan, from RM 137k

Whichever motor is the lucky one to be chosen on the upcoming Innova Hybrid, it could be a pioneering model for Indonesia as it would be one of the 10 hybrid models to be introduced by Toyota in the archipelago.

Also read: Is the Toyota Innova Hybrid set to be launched in 2022 and will it switch to FWD?

The Innova Hybrid is expected to be the first hybrid model to be built in Indonesia with the Lexus UX 300e being another model that could be assembled there based on leaked presentation slides between Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry and representatives from Japanese automakers.

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