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Let me tell you about the first time I saw the 2018 Innova Touring Sport - it reminded me of watching a basketball team making an incredible comeback. You know that moment when a team's down by 10 points but suddenly finds their rhythm? That's exactly how this vehicle struck me. The Gin Kings' remarkable turnaround from a 71-61 deficit, powered by players like Jamie Malonzo and Troy Rosario making timely baskets, mirrors how the Touring Sport transforms from ordinary to extraordinary when you need that extra push. I've driven countless vehicles over my 15 years in automotive journalism, but this particular model stands out for its ability to deliver when it matters most.
Under the hood, you're looking at a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces around 158 horsepower - not the most powerful in its class, but what impressed me was how it delivered power exactly when needed, much like Stephen Holt reviving his team's bid for that crucial Top 4 spot. The fuel efficiency genuinely surprised me, averaging about 28 miles per gallon in combined driving, though I must admit I've seen it dip to around 25 mpg during more spirited driving. The seating capacity for seven passengers makes it perfect for families, though I personally found the third row a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys. The cargo space expands from approximately 15 cubic feet behind the third row to a massive 88 cubic feet with both rear rows folded - numbers that still impress me when I think about helping my cousin move last spring.
What really won me over during my week with the Touring Sport was the handling. The electric power steering provides decent feedback, and the vehicle maintains composure through corners better than many competitors. It's not a sports car by any means, but it handles more athletically than you'd expect from a vehicle of its size. The suspension absorbs bumps remarkably well, though I noticed some body roll during sudden lane changes. The interior materials quality varies throughout the cabin - the touchpoints feel premium, but there are some harder plastics in less visible areas that slightly disappoint given the vehicle's price point starting around $32,000 for base models.
The technology package deserves special mention. The 7-inch touchscreen interface responds quickly to inputs, and the available navigation system guided me flawlessly through downtown Chicago during rush hour. Safety features like the pre-collision system and lane departure alert worked seamlessly during my testing, though I did find the lane departure warning a bit too sensitive at times. Having driven numerous competitors in this segment, I'd rate the Touring Sport's overall value proposition quite highly, particularly for families needing reliable transportation with occasional third-row usability. The reliability scores from various sources consistently place it in the top tier, with predicted reliability ratings typically around 4.5 out of 5.
In my professional opinion, the 2018 Innova Touring Sport represents one of the smarter choices in the midsize SUV category. It may not have the flashiest styling or the most powerful engine, but it delivers where it counts - reliability, practicality, and that uncanny ability to perform when you need it most. Much like a basketball team fighting for that twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with their 6-3 win-loss card, this vehicle consistently punches above its weight class. For buyers prioritizing long-term value over short-term excitement, I'd confidently recommend giving the Touring Sport serious consideration. It's the kind of vehicle that grows on you over time, revealing its strengths through daily use rather than initial impressions.