2024 Toyota Zenix Q Hybrid: First-drive of the Prius that seats 7

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently launched the 2024 Toyota Yaris Cross. Aside from the crossover launch, the Japanese automaker had its entire lineup of hybrid vehicles on display, with test drives available for each model.

While we tested the Toyota Yaris Cross first, we also got the chance to test out the 2024 Toyota Zenix to see what the new MPV has to offer, especially as it is the successor to the Toyota Innova that now comes with a hybrid drivetrain instead of its old turbo diesel set up.

We could only drive the Zenix for a short period around BGC, so this is a quick impressions review of the MPV. We will get more in-depth with it once we get a review unit. 

Also read: 2024 Toyota Zenix: Key specifications you need to know

Interior

Due to our limited time with the vehicle, we will start with its interior. I can say that the Toyota Zenix's build quality is a big step up from its predecessor. More soft-touch materials are present in the cabin, giving it a more premium feel, befitting its nearly ₱2 million price point.

The leather seats are soft and comfortable yet are supportive as well. They resist heat pretty well, given that the test car was parked outside and in the open, exposing it to the afternoon sun. The air conditioning was also excellent, cooling the vehicle down quickly.

However, I didn’t like the look of the user interface of the Zenix. Despite the car's premium vibe, the infotainment took some of that feeling away. It felt cheap but was very much usable in what you want it to do. It's just one minor quirk in an otherwise excellent package.

Driving and handling

A 2.0-liter hybrid powerplant powers the 2024 Toyota Zenix, giving it a turbo diesel-like driving experience with lots of low-end torque, thanks to its electric motor. Compared to the Innova, the Zenix feels much smoother concerning its power delivery. The transition from the electric motor to the gasoline engine is almost seamless, with the internal combustion engine (ICE) only turning on when it needs to charge the battery or if you want more power from the car.

Like the other hybrids in Toyota’s lineup, the Toyota Zenix also comes with Eco and Power modes. If you floor the accelerator, the electric motor and ICE will work together to rocket the MPV forward. It's not as aggressive as the turbo diesel Innova, but it's a linear and smoother experience, which is excellent. 

Regarding ride comfort, it's a step above the old model, with the suspension doing a lot of the work to keep the bumps and road imperfections at bay. The chassis feels stiffer yet maintains a comfortable riding and driving experience. 

We couldn’t test how it handles higher-speed cornering, but we could tell from our short test drive in BGC that the Zenix feels more planted compared to the Innova.

Initial verdict

To sum it up, the Toyota Zenix is an excellent improvement to the Toyota Innova as handling is better along with ride comfort. It's more comfortable and easier to drive thanks to its 360-degree camera and large infotainment system. 

However, the user interface needs a better look as it takes away from the premium vibe of the cabin of the MPV.

Engine performance is excellent as it mixes the initial pull of a turbo diesel motor with the linear feel of a gasoline engine. It's the best of both worlds at slower speeds, as you can feel the electric motor working to rocket the Zenix forward. It's also quiet in electric-only mode, which is a plus, especially with the improved sound deadening compared to the previous model.

Overall, it's a great package, but it is still pricy, considering it's also ₱2 million. There are a few things that Toyota needs to iron out, but it's an otherwise great start. 

Make sure to catch our in-depth review of the 2024 Toyota Zenix once we get a proper loan out of the hybrid MPV.