Toyota Motor Corporation, one of the leading automotive companies in the world, has developed a small compact version of its Innova Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV). The Japanese car maker has discreetly hidden the details and specifications of its mini Innova from the industry, but has started looking at its commercial production for the world audience. At present, the Innova model remains one of the best selling products of the company in Indian auto market. Therefore, the concept of a compact Innova looks like an immensely interesting proposition for the domestic audience.
Currently, the Toyota Innova MUV competes against the likes of Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV500, Mahindra Xylo, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Nissan Evalia amongst others in the Indian auto market. The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga model has lured a lot of buyers away from the Innova, because of its humble pricing, better fuel efficiency and its brand name. Hence, a mini Innova with a smaller engine and attractive price tag could reclaim lost market share for the Japanese auto major in the domestic passenger car market.
As per industry sources, the mini Innova could be powered with a 1.5 litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC petrol powertrain with VVTi technology, which could churn out a peak power around 110 bhp. If the model is to compete with Ertiga, then Toyota will have to introduce it with price tags in the range between Rs. 6 lakhs and Rs. 8 lakhs in the domestic auto market. Upon its arrival on Indian turf, the mini Innova will be pitched against the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Mahindra Quanto, Renault Duster and Premier Rio.
