2021 Maxus G50 vs 2020 Toyota Innova

With Maxus Philippines launching the G50 MPV, it’s about time that the best-selling Toyota Innova would get a worthy competition. Seeking to gain the attention of Filipino families, these modern day MPVs are squaring off with their high equipment level and relatively affordable price tags. The question is, which MPV reigns supreme?

This brings us to the subject of this little spec-check comparo where we pit the newly launched Maxus G50 in its mid- and top-tier trims against the mid-and top-tier Innova counterparts. For good measure, we also included the similarly-packaged Honda Odyssey as well. We opted against putting the smaller MPVs such as the Mobilio, Ertiga, Xpander, or Avanza, because quite frankly, these are a different class altogether.

Again, you can check the follow comparison below, but here’s some of our findings:

• Maxus Philippines has priced its G50 competitively with the top-of-the-line G50 1.5 Premium actually being cheaper than the Innova’s mid-trim variant; and this is against the more affordable 2.0-liter gasoline engine.
• In terms of size, the G50 mirrors the Innova in almost every way with the Toyota only slightly wider.
• With a 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injected gasoline engine under the hood, the G50 outpaces the Innova gasoline in terms of both horsepower and torque. The more sought-after Innova diesel though maintains a solid enough advantage, especially when it comes to torque.
• Transmission-wise, it’s interesting to see different carmakers trying different strategies. Maxus goes with a 7-speed DCT; Toyota, a 6-speed AT; and Honda, a CVT.
• The Innova is the only one in this group to be built using body-on-frame construction. This could be a plus or a minus depending on the target buyer, with those preferring this type of construction swearing by its long-term durability over its monocoque counterpart. On the other hand, those over at team monocoque would point out the Innova’s lardier weight and propensity to develop more rattles and niggles over time. It must be said that only the Innova in this group is rear-wheel drive.
• In terms of features, the G50 can forget competing against the Innova altogether at this point; its competition is more of the Odyssey! Though the Innova V grade does put up a good fight (it’s been recently upgraded with larger 17-inch wheels and a DVD-compatible audio system), not opting for leather seats is a missed opportunity. With that, the Maxus is the clear winner with its power seats, leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof—and this chart doesn’t even include class-exclusive features like a power tailgate and wireless charging too.

Source: Car Guides PH