BYD eMAX 7 vs Toyota Innova Hycross – Electric MPV vs Hybrid MPV

This comparison between two premium MPVs with different powertrains is quite exciting

In this post, we are comparing the BYD eMAX 7 and the Toyota Innova Hycross on the basis of specs, prices, features, design and safety. Even though these are MPVs with almost similar price points, there is a major point of distinction – the powertrain. BYD launched the eMAX7 electric MPV as a replacement for the e6 yesterday. In fact, it holds the tag of being the first 6-/7-seat electric MPV in India. With this, BYD has expanded its portfolio to three cars – Atto 3, Seal and eMAX 7. On the other hand, the Innova Hycross carries two powertrains – a petrol and a petrol hybrid. Let us see the strengths and weaknesses of both these vehicles here.

BYD eMAX 7 vs Toyota Innova Hycross – Price

Let us commence with the most important parameter which is the main reason why people decide which vehicle to go for. The newly launched BYD eMAX 7 is available in two variants – Premium and Superior, both with the alternative to choose between a 6-seat or 7-seat layout. The prices range from Rs 26.90 lakh to Rs 29.90 lakh, ex-showroom. I must admit, these are pretty enticing numbers. On the other hand, the Toyota Innova Hycross retails between Rs 19.77 lakh and Rs 30.98 lakh, ex-showroom.

BYD eMAX 7 vs Toyota Innova Hycross – Specs

The newly launched BYD eMAX 7 is on sale with two battery packs – 55.4 kWh and 71.8 kWh. The smaller battery pack powers an electric motor mounted on the front axle to generate a decent 161 hp and 310 Nm of peak power and torque. This propels the electric MPV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.1 seconds. It supports 89 kW DC fast charging. This battery pack enables a claimed NEDC range of 420 km. On the other hand, the larger battery pack also powers the same electric motor. However, the power output increases to 201 hp, while the torque remains the same. In this configuration, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h comes up in just 8.6 seconds. This is pretty fast for a large MPV. Also, it is compatible with a 115 kW DC fast charger. With this battery, the claimed NEDC range is 530 km. Evidently, the buyers will have different options to choose from.

On the contrary, the Toyota Innova Hycross is available with two powertrains – a petrol OR a hybrid engine. The petrol mill consists of a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine which produces a decent 173 hp and 209 Nm of peak power and torque. This powertrain pairs with a sole CVT automatic gearbox with Sequential Shift technology. Furthermore, the strong hybrid engine is good for 184 hp and 206 Nm of peak power and torque. Even it gets the same CVT gearbox. Therefore, people don’t have the option of a manual transmission.

BYD eMAX 7 vs Toyota Innova Hycross – Features

This is where things get exciting. Modern buyers want the utmost connectivity, tech and convenience features on their vehicles. That is why we see carmakers offering these in their new-age cars. Both these MPVs have attractive amenities to entice customers. Let us start with the new BYD eMAX 7. Its main highlights are:

• 5-inch TFT Full LCD Instrument Cluster
• 12.8-inch Rotatable Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• Panoramic Glass roof
• Regenerative Braking
• Synthetic Leather Seats
• 6-speaker Audio System
• Voice Assistant
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 4 USB Slots
• Keyless Entry and Start
• Electrically Adjustable and Foldable ORVMs
• Wireless Phone Charging
• Upper AC Vents
• V2L Technology
• Follow Me Home Headlight
• One-touch Up/Down Windows for all 4 Doors with Anti-pinch Function
• Automatic AC
• PM2.5 Air Filter
• Tyre Repair Kit
• Electric Opening of Trunk
• 6- and 7-seat Layout
• 6-way Electric Adjustable Driver’s Seat
• 6-way Manual Adjustable Passenger’s Seat
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Height Adjustable Headrests
• 6 Airbags
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• ABS with EBD
• Electric Parking Brake
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill Hold Control
• Brake Disc Wiping System
• ADAS Features
• 360-degree Camera
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Sport Detection

Similarly, the main points of attraction on the Toyota Innova Hycross are:

• 10.1-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wired Android Auto
• 9-speaker JBL Premium Audio System
• Telematics
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel Adjustable with Multimedia Controls
• Smart Entry System with Push Button Start
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Powered Tailgate
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Height Adjustable Driver’s Seat
• 8-way Power Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Memory + Slide Return & Away Function
• Powered Ottoman 2nd Row Seats
• Reclining 2nd and 3rd Row Seats
• Paddle Shifters
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Toyota Safety Sense System (ADAS)
• 6 Airbags
• Vehicle Stability Control
• Hill Start Assist
• Panoramic View Monitor with Dynamic Back Guide
• ABS with EBD and Electric Parking Brake
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Anti-Theft Device

Design and Dimensions

This one area where these two display their individualities. The eMAX 7 offers a modern and sleek front fascia with striking LED headlamps connected via a chrome slab with BYD engraving. Additionally, the lower bumper section contains a grille section with a shark frame and a fog lamp housing on the extreme edges. This lends the front profile a sporty appearance. On the sides, you get stylish alloy wheels with side body skirting, black side pillars with chrome surrounds and faux roof rails. At the rear, we get to witness a shark fin antenna, roof-mounted spoiler, chrome belt on the bumper and a connected LED taillamp console which extends the width of the MPV. All in all, it certainly bears a modern appearance which will make heads turn.

On the other hand, the Toyota Innova Hycross has slightly SUV-ish traits. At the front, it gets prominent LED headlamps with LED DRLs, a large grille with chrome inserts and the Toyota badging, a sporty bumper which is split horizontally and a sporty splitter-type element underneath. On the sides, there are prominent wheel arches which encapsulate the alloy wheels, black side pillars, chrome window frames and a contoured side section. At the rear, the Hycross offers a shark fin antenna, a roof-mounted spoiler, LED taillamps connected by a chrome belt, a sporty bumper with chrome elements on it and a rugged section underneath. Both these vehicles have distinct road presence.

My View

Choosing between these two compelling propositions can be quite tricky. There is a significant overlap in the prices. However, the very hearts of these two MPVs are completely different. The eMAX 7 is a fully electric MPV which comes with loads of new-age features. For an EV, the price is rather attractive. On the other hand, the Toyota Innova Hycross has a traditional ICE and a hybrid engine. The latter is great for fuel efficiency. One doesn’t have to worry about charging and range. Therefore, I would recommend our readers visit the dealerships to experience these two in the flesh and evaluate their usage to make the final decision.

Also Read: BYD eMAX 7 Electric MPV Launched – All You Need To Know