The Medium MPV segment is back alive after PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) presented the seventh generation of Innova called the Toyota Kijang Innova Zenix. Occupying the same segment as Wuling Cortez, the Kijang Innova Zenix looks more modern as well as comfortable compared to the previous model thanks to the design shown, the new platform, superior and complete safety features, and the new engine with hybrid technology.
More revolutionary and at the same time feels more comfortable to use, as an advantage this car has got a sunroof in several of its variants. And most importantly, the hybrid version of the Kijang Innova Zenix can run even if the engine is off thanks to the embedded 5th generation Toyota Hybrid System technology.
With this technology, Toyota claims that the Kijang Innova Zenix, when the engine is off, can run as far as 50 km. This can be done by utilizing an electric motor when using EV Mode.
Having many advantages compared to the previous model, here are the unfortunate things about the Kijang Innova Zenix that should be considered before deciding to buy.
1. FWD Drive, Less Gear in Areas with Extreme Road Contours
Like some of Toyota's newest products, the Kijang Innova Zenix uses the TNGA platform by producing a longer wheelbase that offers spaciousness in the cabin. The use of this platform also makes the machine placed transversely by relying on front-wheel drive or FWD.
Actually, the use of front-wheel drive in this car is not without reason. As stated by Anton Jimny, Marketing Director of Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) when launching the Kijang Innova Zenix some time ago, with the FWD drive of this car, apart from being more comfortable and fuel efficient, the Kijang Innova Zenix can still be relied upon throughout the country.
Even though they are considered reliable in all corners of the country, cars with FWD drives are generally not suitable for use in areas with slippery, uphill road contours. This is because the car will lose more traction, especially when loaded with full passengers.
2. The Apron Material is Less Solid with Less Neat Finishing
Today's cars are generally softer on the front and rear so they can absorb more energy when they crash to protect their users.
At the Toyota Kijang Innova Zenix, the apron that is under the hood seems more fragile than the previous model. Apart from that, in our opinion, the finishing was not neat enough, leaving remnants of sealant glue in some parts.
Also read: Here's how the Toyota Innova Zenix Hybrid System works, it's worth it if it's really economical
3. Rear Suspension Using Torsion Beam
The unfortunate thing about the Toyota Kijang Innova Zenix is the rear suspension. As seen for the shock absorbers, at the rear of this car uses torsion beam type suspension.
In construction, this suspension is not so complicated and is much lighter and stronger than other suspensions. It is the result of the development of a rigid type suspension, the torsion beam suspension has limitations in adjusting the side of the wheel chamber, and feels more swaying when passing through potholes.
Even if you look at Wuling Cortez, a car that also plays in the Medium MPV segment for the L type uses an independent suspension at the rear. Technically, when passing through potholes, the independent suspension on one of the wheels will move freely up and down without affecting the other wheels.
In addition, the independent suspension is able to absorb shocks better when passing through potholes.
4. Not suitable for using BBM with RON below 92
Delivered by Anton Jimny, the Toyota Kijang Innova Zenix is not suitable for using fuel with RON below 92 regarding the compression ratio of the engine it has. As is known, the petrol engine variant has a compression of 13.0: 1, while for the hybrid version it is 14.0: 1.
Even though it is required to use minimum RON 92 fuel, the Kijang Innova Zenix's fuel consumption is fairly economical. As Anton said, for an ordinary petrol engine this car can travel 15 km/liter and 21 km/liter for the hybrid variant.
