Production Models

When Toyota Motor Philippines first gave local motoring journalists a preview of the Toyota Zenix, many asked whether this will be the hybrid variant of the Innova.

Others wondered if this will eventually replace the Innova altogether in the local market.

After all the Zenix - at 4755 millimeters long , 1850mm wide (for the hybrid variant) 1845mm ((for the ICE variant), and 1790mm tall - is sized just millimeters off the Innova's dimensions.

At the same time Toyota itself describes the Zenix as the third generation Innova but built on a totally new platform with a uni-body design and front wheel drive.

When Toyota finally made the All New Zenix available at local dealerships, on offer were two variants-the 2.0 Q Hybrid CVT and the 2.0 V CVT.

The former is powered by hybrid powertrain with a motor generator and a 1987cc four-cylinder Dual VVT-I gasoline engine that generates a total output of 186 PS and 188 Newton-meters of torque.

The latter is powered by a four-cylinder 174 horsepower gasoline engine that also generates a maximum 205 Newton-meters of torque.

In this Car Review, we take a look at the Zenix 2.0 V CVT which arrived with a listed SRP of 1.67 million peso SRP can be said to be the entry level variant.

The 2.0 Q Hybrid CVT is listed at 1.968 million pesos.

With more more softly rounded curves and corners; the All New Zenix looks a lot more refined than the second generation Innova. A little beefier, too, though hardly muscular. Some perceive the Zenix as more good-looking and stately than the old Innnova.

The 2.0 V CVT shares some of the modern exterior features of the 2.0 Q Hybrid CVT - the LED Headlamps and Fog Lamps, the Outside Rear View Mirrors that Power Adjust and Auto Fold and feature Integrated Turn Signals, Front and Rear Intermittent Windshield Wipers.

Also shared is the powered tailgate that opens to a very spacious luggage and cargo space.

The ICE variant of the Zenix is also distinguished from its Hybrid sibling by its body colored outside door handle and black Door Belt Moulding, the lack of over-fenders, and 17-inch Silver Metallic Alloy wheels which look great.

The All New Zenix has a cabin that is lot roomier than in the old Innova, thanks to the flat floor that comes with the uni-body platform.

Lots more leg-, elbow-, and leg-room front and back, including the third row seats.

The Zenix 2.0 V CVT only features fabric upholstery but of the kind that still makes the cabin look posh. Toyota chose to use dark chestnut and black color scheme for the Zenix interior.

Lots of soft surfaces on the dash and door trim add to the premium look and feel of the Zenix which also features leather-wrapped steering wheel with silver ornamentation.

The gear shift lever also gets the leather-silver treatment.

The entry-level Zenix doesn't have the powered driver's seat of the higher variant, only one that manually adjusts six ways.

The front passenger seat manually adjusts four ways.

The Zenix features twin captain's chairs on the second row. Very comfortably cushioned, with armrests, and a folding tray between them for added convenience.

The Captain's' chairs in the 2.0 V CVT manually slide and recline. One needs to spend more for Zenix hybrid which has powered Captain's chairs with Ottomans.

The third row seats may be a tight squeeze for three, but offers more leg and headroom than those in the older Innova.

The third row seating also splits and folds flat 50:50.

The Zenix comes with a digital and analog instrument cluster with a 7-inch Multi-Information Display.

Dominating the center of the dash is the 10.1-inch Display for the Infotainment System that comes with AM/FM radio, Wireless Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Command.

Underneath the display are vents for the Automatic single zone climate control system with controls in the front and the rear.

There are Type A and Type C USB charging portals on the front center console. Two Type C portals are also available for those in the rear, aside from two 12-volt sockets.

The Zenix arrived with comfort and convenience features now standard in top-class MPVs such as Smart Keyless Entry with Push Button start, Ambient Lighting, Illuminated Entry System, Electronic Parking Brake with Brakehold, Power Windows with Auto Up/Down function and Jam Protect.

Other standard features include Auto-Dimming rear view mirrors, Sunvisors with Illuminated Mirrors, and multiple Bottle and Cupholders.

Much lighter than the older Innovas, and with front wheel drive and a more powerful gasoline engine mated to a continuously variable transmission, the Zenix offers a more refined driving experience.

Passing manuevers can be made more confidently. All wheel disc brakes also provide confident stopping power.

Ride and handling is even more car-like compared to older Innovas on a suspension system featuring front McPherson struts and rear Torsion beams.

The electric power steering feels lighter. Road imperfections are absorbed much more comfortably. And it's a quieter in the cabin.

The multi-function steering features buttons and switches for the audio, the infotainment display, telephone, and cruise control.

Paddle shifters also come in handy for those who want greater control over gear shifts.

The Zenix 2.0 V CVT doesn't come with Toyota Safety Sense. Only the hybrid variant comes with this suite of advanced driver assist and safety tech.

But the Zenix with ICE does feature some active safety features that include Anti-Lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, and Hill-Start Assist Control

Assisting with parking is a back camera and eight front and rear back sonar sensors.

Added for safety and security are Alarm with Immobilizer, Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, 3-point ELR seatbelts for seven with driver and front seat passenger getting pretensioners and seatbelt reminders, and two ISOFIX Tether Anchors.

It may not be writ in stone, but sooner or later, the Innova will really go the way of the Revo and the Tamaraw before the Revo. But we hear the Tamaraw name is making a comeback to local shores.