New TNGA-based Toyota Innova 7-seat MPV teased in Indonesia

Toyota Indonesia dropped its first teaser for the upcoming new generation Toyota Innova 7-seat MPV earlier this week. Crucially, this new model, reportedly set for launch sometime next month,  is based upon the Toyota New Generation Architecture (TNGA) chassis platform, specifically the TNGA-C offshoot.

From the teaser image featured, the next-gen Toyota Innova is set to get a new look that’s both bolder and more rugged than the outgoing Innova it’s set to replace – called the Innova Kijang in the republic.

Key traits here include new hexagon grille, sharper headlights, taller bumper intakes, and what appears to be a skid plate. The teaser doesn’t reveal much of the side profile, but does show front fenders that are more sculpted than before. Overall, the styling effort here sees Toyota trying to give this 7-seat MPV a very SUV-like look and stance a la the recently launched Toyota Veloz.

Design overhaul aside, the news that this new generation Innova being built off of Toyota’s TNGA-C platform is crucial too. Instead of the archaic ladder frame type chassis as what the current model rides on, this new successor will share similar bones as key new models such as the Corolla, albeit stretched out to accommodate its signature three-row seating arrangement.

Current-gen Toyota Innova 2.0X pictured.

The change in platform also means a switch from rear-wheel-drive (RWD) to front-wheel-drive (FWD), promising improved driving dynamics, more modern safety tech, as well as extra cabin space thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel and the transverse engine placement (instead of longitudinal).

On the subject of powertrains, Toyota Indonesia hasn’t revealed any details surrounding which, but the model for said republic’s market is expected to feature a selection of both petrol and hybrid engines, with existing truck-sourced diesel options dropped too.

In Indonesia, the new TNGA-based Innova will likely slot below the similar but more posh TNGA-based Toyota Voxy MPV, and just above the DNGA-based Toyota Veloz. Expect more details when this new TNGA-based Innova official debut in said republic next month.