The Toyota Zenix wants to be your next hybrid MPV

The Toyota Zenix is finally here. PHOTO BY SAM SURLA

Well, folks, here it is: the fabled Toyota Innova Hybrid. Er, we mean…Zenix. Yes, the Innova badge still exists at the back. Just think of this like how the top-trim Avanza was spun off into its own model grade, the Veloz.

The Zenix will be available as a hybrid and a gasoline variant. The older, diesel-powered Innova will still be sold alongside it, giving consumers a choice. A high-tech, hybrid people mover, or a reliable diesel workhorse? It’s your call.

The MPV now more closely resembles its global siblings. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

The Zenix has a look that is reminiscent of Toyota’s global models, with hints of the RAV4 and the Grand Highlander. At least, future owners who live in gated communities will be able to appreciate the more upscale appearance.

It comes with LED DRLs, overfenders, chrome body accents, and 18-inch “super chrome metallic” alloy wheels—all exclusive to the Q Hybrid.

The V CVT makes do with body-colored door handles, no overfenders, and 17-inch silver wheels.

The two model grades have LED lighting and fog lamps, power-folding side mirrors, and courtesy lamps.

Do you like the new dashboard and center stack? PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

Everything that you see in the dashboard is entirely new, with nothing carried over from the previous generation. The multilayered design houses an electronic parking brake, a new instrument binnacle with a seven-inch digital driver’s display, and a steering wheel that is similar to the one found in the Land Cruiser 300.

There’s also a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support with six speakers.

The grocery list of features includes automatic climate control for the front and the rear; keyless entry with push-button ignition; an auto-dimming rearview mirror; paddle shifters; ambient lighting; three USB-C ports (with a single USB-A port); and a Data Communication Module for the myToyota Connect functionality.

The amount of luxuries found in this cabin won't make owners feel shortchanged. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

Toyota Safety Sense is standard for the Q Hybrid. It has dynamic radar cruise control, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, a rear seatbelt reminder, six airbags (instead of two), and a 360° camera instead of the singular reversing camera.

Both variants feature ABS with EBD, traction control, hill-start assist, parking sensors, and electric power steering.

You'd be a fool not to ride in these middle seats at least once. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

The interior comes in a two-tone black-and-brown color scheme with silver accents on the door handles. The Q Hybrid has leather upholstery, while the V has fabric upholstery. The vehicle still manages to seat seven people, and it is incredibly roomy inside with a flat floor.

The TNGA architecture now allows for a flat-folding third row. More cargo space for everyone! PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

The top-of-the-line driver seat receives eight-way power adjustment. Meanwhile, the V’s driver seat is manually adjustable in six ways. Both variants have second-row captain’s seats, but the Q Hybrid has power recline and ottoman controls.

Previous owners will be delighted to know that the third row now finally folds flat in a 50:50 split.

Both Zenix models use a gasoline mill underneath. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

The Q Hybrid has a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with a hybrid system—the M20A-FXS. Total system output is pegged at 184hp and 188Nm.

Meanwhile, the V utilizes the non-hybrid version of the 2.0-liter engine (the M20A-FKS) with 176hp and 205Nm. Both engines are mated to a CVT, and send power to the front wheels.

Will consumers learn to appreciate the vehicle's new nameplate? PHOTO BY SAM SURLA

Body colors include Platinum White Pearl Mica for both variants, while Blackish Brown Mica and Dark Steel Mica are exclusive to the Q Hybrid. The V CVT gets Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica.

The Zenix will retail for P1,670,000 for the V CVT, and P1,953,000 for the Q Hybrid. You can get it at Toyota dealerships starting today. Are you buying one?


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