Toyota has officially resumed dispatch of its diesel-powered models namely Innova Crysta, Fortuner, and Hilux. The Japanese carmaker had briefly paused dispatch of these models on 29 January 2024 after reportedly discovering inconsistencies during its diesel engine horsepower certification testing in the above-mentioned models.
This was confirmed by the company’s international arm, Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), affiliated with Toyota Motor Corporation. Now, the carmaker has re-confirmed that the suspension has been revoked and the diesel engines meet Indian regulations. This was a moment of scare for the brand which is known to live by high quality standards.
What were the inconsistencies?
A special investigation committee was tasked to look into potential certification irregularities. Internal inspection of the diesel engines revealed inconsistencies involved in the ‘smoothing’ of power and torque curves. This could ideally impact the power delivery of the engines which could affect drivability.
The investigation revealed that the affected units were equipped with a different ECU than the one specified for these models. Toyota has assured that this does not have any impact on the emissions or safety of the affected vehicles.
Despite the temporary suspension of dispatches, Toyota continued to manufacture and take orders of its diesel-powered models, hence, there will be no delay in the production of these UVs. Therefore, there will be no effect on waiting periods of Fortuner, Hilux, and Innova Crysta.
The diesel lineup from Toyota in India includes a 2.4-litre unit for Innova Crysta and a 2.8-litre unit offered in Fortuner and Hilux. Globally, these two motors power as many as ten models in Toyota’s portfolio. For reference, Innova Crysta, Fortuner and Hilux account for almost one-third of Toyota’s sales in India.
