The second generation Toyota Innova, christened Innova Crysta will finally launch next month.   
 
The new Innova is longer, wider and taller than the one it will replace. The MPV features a design that is a big step forward from the one currently on sale here. The minimalist look of the current car makes way for a design with dozens of stylistic flourishes. However, it still can be recognised as an Innova.
 Up front, the nose borrows styling cues from more recent models like the Corolla Altis and Camry. The hexagonal grille is wider and taller, and extends all the way to the base of the nose. The headlamps are double-barrel projector units with integrated LED daytime-running lamps.

The current 2.5-litre unit with a power output of 102bhp will be replaced by a 2.4-litre diesel that will pump out 147bhp. The bottom end of the rev range in this turbo-diesel is not as good as the current car’s, but the mid-range brings with it a perceptible wave of meaty torque, making highway cruising so much better. The automatic variant will come with a 2.8-litre diesel engine whose power rating has not yet been specified. The Innova finally gets a six-speed automatic gearbox with the Crysta. As we found out, this gearbox works great with the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel, exhibiting a quick-shifting, responsive character. It works well in both automatic as well as manual modes, adding a dash of convenience whenever you are behind the wheel.