Spied: Could this be the all-new FWD Toyota Innova?
CY Foong · Feb 21, 2022 10:30 AM
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First proof of the FWD Innova?
Spotted in Thailand but likely for development
Indonesia remains hub for all-new FWD Innova
Ever since it replaced the Toyota Kijang, the Toyota Innova has inherited not only the generous seating arrangement so beloved by Indonesians but also the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout which is important given Indonesia’s hilly terrain. However, there is a huge chance that the next-gen Innova could switch to front-wheel-drive (FWD).
Current Innova shown
Over the weekend, a spyshot of what could be the next-gen Innova in a heavily camouflaged disguise made the rounds across the region’s automotive blogosphere. According to intrepid Indonesian sleuth, Indra Fathan, the possible all-new Innova was first posted by the Veloz Club Thailand Facebook page and has since been taken down.
Ignore the twin towers in the background, Thai-spec Innova shown where it is called the Innova Crysta
This is the first time the possible FWD Innova has been making a public disguised appearance and it is spotted in Thailand instead of Indonesia. This doesn’t mean that production of the next-gen Innova will be based in the Kingdom but instead, it is likely used for development purposes, away from the prying eyes of Indonesian automotive snoops.
Difficult to say whether the rear differential is absent or not from this angle of the spyshot
The fully-covered MPV doesn’t show any clues to it being a Toyota but its shape is largely similar to the current Innova. Based on the exposed parts of the test mule, the next-gen Innova could feature LED taillights and larger, new alloys.
Current Innova shown
The all-new Innova would be a giant leap compared to the outgoing model. Not only would the next-generation feature FWD, but it might also even be built on a monocoque chassis, perhaps a TNGA platform. The Innova has been built on the IMV platform which it shares with the Hilux and Fortuner ever since it was introduced in 2004.
As accidentally revealed by the Indonesian Minister of Industry, the next-gen Innova will come with a hybrid engine, replacing the diesel unit. Petrol engines will remain and the all-new Innova is poised to become the first electrified Toyota to be built in the archipelago.
The all-new FWD Innova is expected to be launched around the end of 2022 with some speculating that it could be as early as October. There’s no doubt that the all-new Innova could be making inroads into Malaysia but what could this mean for the reputation of the MPV as a robust and dependable workhorse among Indonesians?
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
