RESPONSIVE, DRIVEABLE ENGINE, SLICK GEARBOX
With a 1.5-tonne kerb weight to haul, the Innova needs less power than heavier competition like the Scorpio and Tavera, and the 102bhp and 20.39kgm of twist from the 2.5-litre common rail turbo-diesel cope well. Diesel clatter and vibrations are muted, but the pump attendant won't need to ask what fuel the Toyota uses.
In terms of refinement, the D-4D engine isn't a quantum leap ahead of its rivals. It's significantly quieter than the Tavera but the Scorpio with its new CRDe engine is a match for it. Off the line, the Innova is very responsive and tugs you forward from as low as 1200rpm. There's very little turbo-lag and with peak torque from as low as 1400rpm, the Innova canters effortlessly.
The relatively short gear ratios are perfectly matched to the engine's power and torque characteristics, and complement the superb driveability. As a result, ambling in city traffic is a breeze and you never feel a lack of power or the need to downshift.
What the Innova lacks is the top-end punch of the Scorpio. It doesn't have the same spring in its step as the Mahindra and the performance figures prove this. It's a clear second behind in the dash to 100kph, and in-gear acceleration figures are also a notch below the Scorpio. Interestingly, the Innova closes the gap past 120kph, possibly because of its sleeker shape, the Scorpio is a brick in comparison.
At highway speeds, the Innova cruises comfortably but the shorter gearing does have its drawbacks. Up the pace to 120kph, and there is a distinct drone which does get intrusive. The long-throw gearbox is UV-derived but it’s light, direct and better than on many cars.