New Maruti MPV based on Toyota Innova Hycross in the works

As Toyota gears up to launch the Innova Hycross in November, it has been revealed that a Maruti MPV based on the same version may also be in the works. This is also the first time that a Toyota product has been rebadged for Maruti. The two automakers have been producing vehicles under a joint partnership since 2017. Recently, Toyota and Maruti came out with their midsize SUVs HyRyder and Grand Vitara which were jointly manufactured at Toyota’s plant in Bidadi.

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Maruti MPV: Differences and similarities to Toyota Innova Hycross

The new Maruti MPV will be underpinned by Toyota’s TNGA-C platform. This would make the Maruti MPV the first Toyota vehicle to be cross badged under Maruti’s banner. Earlier, the Vitara Brezza and Baleno were sold as Urban Cruiser and Glanza for Toyota. In Europe, Suzuki rebadges Toyota’s RAV-4 and Corolla Wagon as A-Cross and Swace.

The Maruti MPV will also share the same powertrain and gearbox as the Innova Hycross. There may be some differences in design elements, both outside and inside. The Maruti MPV is expected to get a different grille, bumper, and headlamps than its Toyota counterpart. The colour options will also be different for both MPVs.

Inside, the Maruti MPV may also vary from the Hycross. As seen on the Grand Vitara and HyRyder, the interior theme and upholstery will also be different in the two MPVs. The features offered for different variants will also differ for the two vehicles. 

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Conclusion

Toyota will entirely ditch the diesel engine for the Innova Hyrcross and it will be made available in only petrol-hybrid variants. This makes it similar to HyRyder, the key difference being that the Hycross will use a 2.0-litre engine instead of the 1.5-litre unit on the HyRyder. It will also come with a localised version of the Toyota Hybrid System. 

The Hycross will make its global debut in November. The Indian launch could take place in 2023, followed by the release of the Maruti MPV. Both vehicles will rival Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Kia Carens.