It’s gonna be a close fight between the Mahindra and Toyota…
Toyota has launched the facelift of their top-selling MPV- the Innova Hycross. It is targeted straight at anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable MPV in the Indian market. Going by the expected pricing, the Innova Hycross could become a direct rival to the Mahindra XUV 700. While we are yet to drive these back to back for an authentic comparo-advice, here are 5 things we think, are better on the XUV 700, than on the Jap.
Larger screens
The XUV 700 is equipped with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument console. On the other hand, the Hycross gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch ( 17.8 cm) TFT instrument console. While the infotainment systems are very similar in size, the size of the Toyota’s instrument cluster is considerably smaller than the Mahindra’s.
ALSO READ: Mahindra XUV700 Review: The Slingshot XUV!
Rain sensing wipers
Automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers offered on the top-spec variant of the XUV are not seen on the full-spec Hycross. This is a noticeable difference between these two, as customers are now concerned about every possible piece of equipment on their buys.
Built-in Alexa
The connectivity suite on the XUV 700 is much better than the one on the Hycross. It comes with built-in Alexa integration for an easier and more convenient entertainment experience and better voice recognition. Voice commands here can be used for making calls, navigating and controlling music. The Innova Hycross, however, only gets basic connected car tech and functions.
ALSO READ: Mahindra XUV700 Petrol Automatic Review: Fast Nuff!
Diesel Engine With AWD
The XUV 700 comes with two engine options – 2.0L turbo petrol and a 2.2L diesel engine. Both manual and automatic gearboxes are available. Mahindra also offers an optional AWD on select variants. The Hycross, on the other hand, is only made available with petrol engines alone and FWD. No AWD at all.
Manual transmission
The Innova Hycross comes with two engines to choose from: a 2.0L NA petrol and a 2.0L strong hybrid petrol. Both these are mated to a CVT transmission, and strictly no manuals. The XUV 700 on the other hand, can be had with manual gearboxes.