I was in the same dilema before, looking for a bigger vehicle to replace my Avanza and to cater my family with four growing big kids. I was initially eyeing the Innova and has actually tested several units, but came this Alterra. Pag test drive pa lang namin hindi na pinakawalan ni Misis, yun na lang daw. Now we have the Alterra.
Here are the
Pros of Alterra:
1. Di hamak na mas maluwag sa Innova. Even the 3rd row maluwag, at ang space sa likod malaki din
2. Napaka swabe ng suspension as compared sa Innova. Kahit leaf spring yung likod, maganda talbog, hindi gaya ng Innova matagtag
3. Maganda din road noise insulation as compared sa innova
4. Malakas humatak
5. Very composed sa high speed. Very relaxed din yung engine kahit 120 kph na
6. Solid na solid ang kaha at suspension
7. Magaan dalhin kahit malaki
8. Mas may road presence as compared sa Innova
9. Mas confident ako sa Alterra pag sa baha at mga lubak
Cons of the Alterra:
1. Mas maingay konti makina nya compared sa Innova, pag nasa labas ka, pero kung naka sakay ka na sa loob, ok lang. Maganda din kasi insulation
2. Mas mahal ang gulong!

3. Mas mahirap sa singitan compared sa Innova kasi malapad sya
4. Yung turning radius nya medyo malaki as compared sa Innova, mas mahaba kasi (bigger and longer wheelbase)
5. Mas mahirap linisin compared sa innova, mas malaki kasi. Hindi kasi ako madalas mag pa carwash, sanay ako sa DIY

6. Though wala pa akong pinapa ayos na pang ilalim, tingin ko mas mahal din konti sa Innova, kasi mas malalaki piyesa nya
Given the Pros and Cons above, I believe I made the wise decision. Mas eksakto sa needs ng family ko. Buti na lang nakinig ako kay Misis!
I suggest you let your Tito to test drive both, and let him decide which suits his needs and priorities.