The second-generation Toyota Innova, christened Innova Crysta, is all set to be launched in the first week of May. The MPV will be sold in India with two engine and gearbox options, and will be available in five trim levels.

The Innova Crysta’s design is a big step forward from that of the model currently on sale in India. The minimalist look of the current car makes way for a design loaded with styling elements. However, it's still recogonisable as an Innova. The model also stands longer, wider and taller than the current car. Up front, the nose borrows styling cues from the current-gen Corolla Altis and Camry. The hexagonal grille is now wider and taller, and extends all the way to the base of the nose. The headlamps are double-barrel projector units with integrated LED daytime running lamps.

Powering the Innova Crysta is an all-new 2.4-litre diesel engine that develops 149hp and 343Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The automatic variant gets a 2.8-litre diesel unit that is good for 174hp and 360Nm torque, and is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. Both units are Euro 5 compliant.

The new Innova uses a ladder-frame chassis and independent front suspension like the old model, while the rear gets a new four-link setup. Being a more up-market model, the car is equipped with modern systems like ABS, hill descent control and electronic stability control, some of which are likely to be offered on the Indian model.

Like the exteriors, the new Innova's interiors too seem to have received dramatic tweaks. It is now better equipped, and built to an all-new standard with the use of varied surfaces, textures and colours that increase the visual appeal of the new dash.