The Toyota Innova has long been one of the most trusted and popular MPVs in India. Known for its durability, reliability, and comfortable cabin, it has become the go-to choice for families as well as commercial operators. However, the Innova Crysta and the newer Innova Hycross sit at a higher price bracket, making them out of reach for many budget-conscious buyers.
Recent reports suggest that Toyota may be planning to introduce a more affordable version of its Innova — a so-called “mini-Innova.” This new model is likely to be a rebadged Maruti XL6, strategically placed between Toyota’s Rumion (a rebadged Maruti Ertiga) and the Innova Crysta. While Toyota has not confirmed the launch, market chatter indicates that this could be an important move for the brand in India.
Toyota and Maruti: The Rebadging Strategy
The partnership between Toyota and Maruti Suzuki has already produced multiple badge-engineered products. Toyota sells the Urban Cruiser Hyryder (based on Maruti’s Grand Vitara) and the Rumion (based on Maruti’s Ertiga). These models have allowed Toyota to reach a wider set of buyers while giving Maruti access to Toyota’s strong hybrid technology.
The Rumion in particular has found decent success in the affordable MPV segment. Following the same path, the XL6 which is a more premium version of the Ertiga could be the next Maruti product to receive a Toyota badge. This rebadged XL6 is expected to be positioned as a more accessible alternative to the Innova, giving buyers a chance to own a Toyota MPV in the Rs 14-17 lakh price range.
Design and Exterior Highlights
If Toyota decides to launch the XL6-based MPV, its overall silhouette will remain similar to the Maruti XL6. However, Toyota will likely make some cosmetic changes to give it a distinct identity.
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Front Grille: A redesigned Toyota-specific grille with chrome highlights.
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Alloy Wheels: New wheel designs to differentiate it from the XL6.
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Branding: Toyota badges across the front, rear, and steering wheel.
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Other Features: Shark-fin antenna, LED headlamps, roof rails, and sleek tail lamps.
These small but important changes will ensure that the model blends with Toyota’s MPV family while retaining the XL6’s practical design.
Interior and Features
Inside, the rebadged XL6 is expected to carry forward the premium feel of the Maruti version while adding a few Toyota-specific updates. Toyota could offer a new colour scheme and possibly improved upholstery.
Likely features include:
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Six-seat layout with captain chairs in the second row
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Ventilated front seats
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Powered driver’s seat
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Leatherette upholstery
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360-degree camera
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Cruise control
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Large touchscreen infotainment system with connected car tech
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Updated instrument cluster
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Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in higher trims
This mix of practicality and premium features would allow the mini-Innova to appeal to both family buyers and urban professionals looking for a versatile MPV.
Powertrain and Efficiency
The mini-Innova is likely to carry over the same engine as the Maruti XL6:
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1.5-litre Petrol Engine producing 101 bhp and 137 Nm torque
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Gearbox Options: 5-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic
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CNG Option: Just like the XL6, a CNG-powered version could also be offered for cost-conscious buyers
This setup prioritises fuel efficiency and reliability over outright performance, in line with the target audience for this MPV.
Pricing and Positioning
Toyota is expected to price this model between Rs 14 lakh and Rs 17.7 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). This makes it more expensive than the Rumion (starting around Rs 10.44 lakh) but significantly more affordable than the Innova Crysta, which generally starts above Rs 23 lakh.
In terms of positioning, the mini-Innova would cater to customers who find the Innova too costly but still want a Toyota MPV with premium touches and a six-seater layout.
Launch Timeline
At present, Toyota has not officially announced or confirmed the existence of this project. However, considering the success of the Rumion and the market demand for affordable MPVs, the launch of a rebadged XL6 under Toyota’s branding appears likely in the near future.
FAQs
Q1. Is Toyota officially launching a mini-Innova?
A. No, Toyota has not confirmed this yet. Reports suggest it could be a rebadged version of the Maruti XL6.
Q2. What engine will it use?
A. It will likely use the same 1.5-litre petrol engine as the XL6, with manual, automatic, and possibly CNG options.
Q3. How will it be different from the XL6?
A. Expect Toyota-specific design elements such as a new grille, badges, and possibly additional premium features.
Q4. What will be the seating configuration?
A. It should come with a six-seat layout with captain chairs in the second row, similar to the XL6.
Q5. What will be the expected price?
A. Between Rs 14 lakh and Rs 17.7 lakh, making it more affordable than the Innova Crysta.
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