A close look at the 2012 Toyota Innova facelift

It's going to be 7 years since the Innova was launched, and its still the king-of-the-hill when we talk of MPVs. Just ask the neighbourhood cabbie whose Innova is going strong on 250,000 kms. This Toyota is an absolute workhorse that still has waiting periods of 6 months in some cities. 7 years is usually the time for an all-new generation, but the next-gen Innova is 2 - 3 years away. Hence, next month's Auto Expo will see the launch of a face-lift. The addition of an intercooler in 2010 was the last major mechanical upgrade. The 2012 Innova is identical to the current version under the skin, and will be offered with the same diesel & petrol engine options. A CNG kit (for the petrol) is also available. Toyota should have used this facelift opportunity and bumped up the power to atleast 120 BHP, along with 40 - 50 more Nm of torque. A taller 5th gear would have been welcome too, as the current ratio is too short for long distance expressway cruising. The Innova gets the same new colours (Metallic Blue & Silky gold) as the 2012 Fortuner (Link to review). The vehicle was only available for shooting as there is no change in the way that she drives: Softer face looks more car-like now. No major sheet metal changes. Redesigned bumper & fog lamps blend in better with the rest of the vehicle: Attachment 859907 Attachment 859908 Rear end is nearly identical, save for subtle changes to the lights, bumper and I-N-N-O-V-A embossed chrome garnish: Attachment 859909 New headlamp & Fog lamp design: Attachment 859910 Electrically-adjustable wing mirrors. Integrated turn indicators too: Attachment 859911 10-spoke alloy wheels: Attachment 859912 New side skirts: Attachment 859913 Attachment 859914 The faux wood has a more subtle effect; stand-out silver appears to be India-specific: Attachment 859915 Steering wheel is nearly the same as the Corolla Altis'. Also equipped with controls for the audio system, MID and the bluetooth-connected phone. Notice the slightly different meter arrangement behind: Attachment 859916 Touch screen double-DIN head unit with a DVD player, USB + AUX inputs and Bluetooth connectivity. Looks more like an after-market unit than a factory fit... the Indonesian Innova has a better touchscreen integration. The head unit will also display your phone's battery status and signal strength. In addition, you can stream music from your phone. VX variant gets 6 speakers: Attachment 859925 Reverse Camera display: Attachment 859926 USB & AUX ports are located right next to the 12V power socket: Attachment 859927 Attachment 859928 Attachment 859929 Attached Thumbnails

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