Toyota to introduce new range of SUVs, MPVs in India
What's the story
Toyota Kirloskar Motor is gearing up to expand its Indian portfolio with a range of new SUVs and MPVs. The company will produce most of these vehicles in-house, instead of relying on badge-engineered Maruti Suzuki models. This comes as part of Toyota's efforts to strengthen its presence in India, one of its top four global markets.
Strategic growth
Investment and new production plants
Toyota has announced an investment of over $3 billion in India. The company also has plans to set up a new plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, and another one in Bengaluru. These facilities will help the automaker expand its local production capabilities and meet the growing demand for its vehicles in the Indian market.
Upcoming launches
Lower-spec hybrid version of Innova Hycross
Among the new models, Toyota is planning a lower-spec, hybrid version of the Innova Hycross. This model will be aimed at fleet buyers and come with fewer features to keep costs down. The company has already showcased flex-fuel prototypes of this vehicle at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2024 and 2025 editions.
Future models
Toyota's version of Maruti's all-electric 3-row MPV
Toyota is also working on its own version of Maruti's upcoming all-electric three-row MPV. The model will be based on the Heartect-e platform and take on competitors such as BYD eMAX 7. Meanwhile, the new Land Cruiser FJ is expected to launch in India by late 2028. It could be the first model to roll out from Toyota's new Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant.
Production goals
Updates on 3rd-generation Fortuner and exports from new plant
The third-generation Fortuner will keep its 2.8-liter diesel engine with a 48V mild-hybrid version. Despite stricter emission norms, it will retain its ladder-frame setup due to relatively lower sales numbers than other SUVs in the lineup. Toyota is also considering exports from its new Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar plant, with an annual production target of around 90,000 units, 40,000 of which are planned for export to markets like the Middle East.