For years, the Toyota Innova has been a staple on Malaysian roads—reliable, spacious, and built to take on the daily grind. But with increasing competition from feature-rich, wallet-friendly rivals, Toyota had to up its game.
Enter the Toyota Innova Zenix V, a modernised MPV built on a fresh platform, offering more refinement, better safety, and a touch of premium flair. But in a landscape filled with attractive alternatives like the Proton X90 and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, does the Zenix justify its higher price tag?
The most significant change with the Innova Zenix is under the skin. Unlike its predecessor, which used a rugged rear-wheel-drive ladder frame, the Zenix is now built on Toyota’s TNGA-C unibody platform, resulting in a different driving experience.
On the road, it feels more like a crossover than a traditional MPV. The handling is smoother, the cabin quieter, and overall ride comfort is a noticeable step up—especially on longer journeys.
Powering the Zenix V is a 2.0-litre Dynamic Force engine delivering 174 PS and 205 Nm of torque. It’s paired to a Direct Shift CVT that simulates gear shifts for a more natural driving feel.
Acceleration is smooth, and while it won’t thrill performance enthusiasts, it offers a comfortable, composed drive that suits its family-oriented nature. Bonus points for efficiency: Toyota claims around 6.5 litres per 100 km, making it fairly economical for a seven-seater.
Step inside and the Zenix V keeps things simple, yet functional. You get a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital driver display, USB-A and USB-C ports, and even a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system is intuitive and crisp, making it easy for both drivers and passengers to stay connected.
Second-row passengers are treated to generous legroom, thanks to a 2,850 mm wheelbase, while the third row—though tighter—is still usable for shorter adults or kids. It’s an MPV that understands its primary role: to carry people comfortably and safely.
Speaking of safety, Toyota has equipped the Zenix V with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This comprehensive suite includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure alert, blind spot monitoring, and more. For families, these advanced features add a welcome layer of confidence on the road.
For all its strengths, the Zenix V doesn’t come cheap. Priced at RM165,000, it sits firmly in the upper tier of the MPV segment. This price is partly due to it being a CBU (completely built-up) import from Indonesia, rather than being locally assembled.
The engine, while efficient, can get noisy under hard acceleration, something that might detract from the otherwise calm cabin ambiance. And although the interior is well-built, it lacks the wow factor—there’s no full digital cluster, no ambient lighting, and the overall design leans conservative rather than cutting-edge.
Boot space with all three rows up is also limited at 239 litres—sufficient for groceries, but tight for families heading out on longer road trips with luggage.
The Zenix V may carry the Toyota badge, but it’s facing stiff competition from both local and international brands.
Starting from RM123,800, the X90 significantly undercuts the Zenix. It comes with a 1.5L turbocharged engine paired with a mild hybrid system that produces more torque (300 Nm) than the Zenix. It also boasts features like automated parking, ambient lighting, and a fully digital interface. However, it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which could be a deal-breaker for some.
Another contender from China, the Tiggo 8 Pro combines power with premium touches. Its 2.0L turbo engine delivers strong performance, and the interior features plush materials and high-tech amenities at a competitive price. For buyers looking for luxury on a budget, it’s a compelling alternative.
That being said, the Toyota Innova Zenix V is a clear evolution from the old Innova—more refined, more comfortable, and much better equipped. It’s a people-mover that now behaves more like a family crossover, with a calm ride, advanced safety, and the rock-solid reputation that Toyota is known for.
But in a price-sensitive market like Malaysia, the question isn’t just whether the Zenix V is good—it’s whether it’s worth it. And that depends on what you value most.
If brand trust, long-term reliability, and a smooth, comfortable drive are at the top of your list, then yes—the Zenix V makes a very strong case. However, if you’re looking for maximum value, modern design, and tech-heavy interiors, rivals like the Proton X90 and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro offer more for less.
In conclusion, Toyota has certainly taken the Innova nameplate to new heights with the Zenix V. It’s a matured, well-rounded MPV that’s hard to fault mechanically—but whether it’s the best choice depends on your priorities.
