All New Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: The Premium MPV Battle

• The latest MPV in the market, Innova Hycross pitched against the Kia Carnival.
• Comparison based on dimensions, engine specs, pricing, exteriors, interiors and features.
• Let's see how these MPVs stand against each other on various parameters.

The latest and one of the most sought-after products of the year 2022, the Toyota Innova Hycross was unveiled on 25th November. A drastic drift from the current gen Innova Crysta, the new Hycross sports a monocoque chassis and uses a petrol powertrain under the hood. Grown significantly in dimensions and the enhancement of the luxury quotient has led the new vehicle to breach the territory of the Kia Carnival. So is a quick comparison to see how these premium MPVs stack against each other on paper.

Also Read: Toyota Innova Hycross Vs Mahindra XUV700 - Detailed Comparo

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Dimensions

The numbers speak for themselves and it is quite clear that the Kia Carnival is the bigger vehicle here. No doubt about it, as the Carnival sits notch above with its more than 5 meters of length and it is wider than the Hycross by 135 mm. On the other hand, the Toyota MPV is the taller car and sports a slightly higher ground clearance.

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Powertrain

In terms of powertrain, the Innova Hycross is only available with the petrol option while the Kia Carnival is propelled by a diesel mill. The Toyota MPV offers two engine choices, i.e. strong hybrid petrol and naturally aspirated petrol. The strong hybrid uses the brand's 5th Generation Self-charging Hybrid Electric Technology and it is mated to an e-CVT transmission. The combined power output from the system stands at 186 bhp and 206 Nm of peak torque. The naturally aspirated motor puts out 174 bhp and 205 Nm of peak torque, mated to a CVT gearbox. Kia Carnival, on the other hand, uses a 2.2-litre turbo diesel motor putting out 200 bhp and 440 Nm of peak torque. Comparing the power specs puts the Kia Carnival ahead, however, the Hycross is the more fuel-efficient option, returning around 21.1 kmpl in its strong hybrid guise.

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Exteriors, Interiors, and Seating Configuration

A brief look at both vehicles, it will be quite clear that the Carnival's design speaks of its MPV identity whereas the design philosophy of the Hycross is more on the SUVish side with a much-required MPV touch when looked upon from the sides. Inside the cabin, the Carnival feels a bit dated as Kia still sells the old-gen model in India and we are yet to receive the updated MPV. However, there is no compromise on quality as well as fit and finish levels. The Innova Hycross sports some modern design elements in the interiors, which somehow are more pleasing to the eyes. Both the MPVs use good quality soft touch elements throughout the cabin. In terms of space, the Carnival has the upper hand with a roomier cabin.

In terms of sitting configuration, the Carnival is only available in the 7-seater layout, while the Innova Hycross gets the choice of both 7/8 seater configurations.

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Tech and Safety Features

Both the MPVs are quite loaded and stand neck to neck in terms of modern tech features. The stand-out features of the new Innova Hycross include a powered driver seat with memory function, a dual-zone climate control system, ventilated seats, powered Ottoman seats, a 10-inch infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, 9 speaker JBL sound system, a powered tailgate and more.

The Kia Carnival is equally equipped and gets tech features such as a tri-zone climate control system, 10-way electronically adjustable driver's seat, dual single pane sunroof, 8-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system, and rear seat entertainment.

The common safety kit on board the MPVs includes 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, traction control, TPMS, front and rear parking sensors with TPMS, hill hold control, and more. The point where the Innova Hycross leaves behind the Carnival by a huge margin is the inclusion of ADAS features.

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Prices

The prices of the Toyota Innova Hycross are yet to be revealed, however, we expect it to carry a sticker price in the range of Rs. 20-30 lakh (ex-showroom). The strong hybrid powertrain will be put at the higher end of the spectrum as compared to regular petrol models. The prices of Kia Carnival start from Rs. 30.99 lakh and go all the way up to Rs. 35.49 lakh (both prices ex-showroom).

Also Read: Toyota Innova Hycross vs Crysta vs Alcazar vs XUV700 - Petrol Mileage Comparo

Toyota Innova Hycross VS Kia Carnival: Verdict

The Toyota Innova Hycross has a lot of factors going in its favour. The brand value associated with Toyota, bullet-proof reliability, best resale value, and the likes of the Innova moniker plays the stronghold factors, even before having a look at the vehicle. Kia Carnival also makes a case for itself with its appealing price tag and the humongous cabin space, which in turn provides the best-in-class comfort to passengers. The absence of a diesel powertrain and rugged monocoque chassis will put off some buyers, as 95% of Innova Crysta sale was pulled by the diesel powertrain, however, it can attract some new customers inclined towards luxury.

The final pricing of Innova Hycross will play a crucial deciding role, and customers who are looking for a petrol-powered MPV with a combination of comfort, modern design, and tech features can go for the Hycross. The Kia Carnival will serve as an adequate choice for buyers looking for an ultra-spacious chauffer-driven MPV, and its diesel powertrain helps the cause.