The Innoson IVM G6 is one of the most defining products from Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), a company founded by Chief Innocent Chukwuma Nwala and widely celebrated as Nigeria’s first indigenous automobile manufacturer. Known as the “Pride of African Roads,” the IVM G6 is built to reflect a balance of strength, style, and cultural relevance, aiming to meet the real driving conditions of Nigeria and the wider African region. It embodies national pride while presenting a practical choice for families, executives, and everyday drivers who seek a mix of comfort and durability.
Since its introduction, the IVM G6 has attracted attention for its full-size SUV frame, reliable Mitsubishi petrol engine, and modern design language. Unlike imported vehicles that often struggle on rough terrain or require expensive parts, the G6 represents a tailored approach to Africa’s unique driving challenges. It has gained traction among government institutions, private users, and even regional distributors across West Africa, positioning itself as a credible alternative to imported SUVs from Toyota, GAC, and Ford.
Exterior Design and Styling
The Innoson IVM G6 presents a confident and commanding design. Measuring 4400mm in length, 1710mm in width, and 1900mm in height, it stands tall and bold on Nigerian roads. Its 245/70R17 tires give it a robust stance, while the sleek LED headlights and well-sculpted front grille enhance its premium appeal. The SUV’s exterior features chrome detailing, fog lights, and double exhaust pipes that add a sporty yet elegant finish. Its reinforced shock absorbers and elevated ground clearance make it ready for both paved city roads and rural terrains.
For buyers seeking a larger vehicle, the G6T variant brings extended dimensions—4690mm length and 1850mm width—making it a proper seven-seater with a family-oriented layout. The aerodynamic silhouette of both versions reflects Innoson’s effort to combine aesthetics with practicality. The rear design features integrated trafficators, a durable bumper, and dual exhaust outlets, giving the SUV a touch of executive presence.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the G6 offers an impressive combination of local craftsmanship and international standards. It seats up to five passengers comfortably, with wide leather-upholstered seats, high-quality finishing, and excellent legroom. The dashboard layout is clean and functional, housing an 8-inch multimedia display that supports smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and radio functions. Power windows, adjustable steering, and soft-touch materials contribute to a sense of luxury uncommon in locally assembled vehicles.
The G6T variant enhances this interior experience with features such as ambient lighting, a multifunction steering wheel, and a larger infotainment screen. It also includes Wi-Fi, wireless charging, and cruise control—amenities that rival established international brands. The cabin insulation is solid, reducing road noise, while the air conditioning system efficiently handles Nigeria’s tropical climate.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Innoson G6 runs on a 2.4-litre Mitsubishi petrol engine, offering a fine balance of power and fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s dual suspension system improves stability, particularly on uneven roads. The automatic transmission ensures smooth acceleration, while the chassis design provides a grounded feel even during high-speed manoeuvres.
The G6T variant, on the other hand, features a 2.7-litre petrol engine paired with an automatic gearbox. It offers slightly higher output, better torque, and an estimated fuel consumption rate of 9.5–8.7L per 100km—reasonable for an SUV of its size. The G6 performs reliably during long-distance drives and off-road trips, a testament to IVM’s focus on durability over luxury excess.
Pricing and Availability
As of 2025, the Innoson IVM G6 is priced at around ₦32,915,000, with some variants reaching ₦35 million depending on market fluctuations, features, and region. The G6T, which accommodates seven passengers, starts around ₦20 million, positioning it as one of the most affordable full-size SUVs in its category. The vehicles are available through IVM dealerships nationwide and across West Africa, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Mali.
Safety and Reliability
In terms of safety, the G6 features Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), dual front and rear airbags, and a reinforced frame to enhance crash protection. The G6T expands this with additional side airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a tire pressure monitoring system. With 72 safety configurations—46 active and 26 passive—the SUV provides a dependable driving experience in unpredictable road conditions.
Owners have also praised the G6’s reliability, particularly for government fleets and intercity travel. Spare parts are accessible within Nigeria, a key advantage over imported models that often require shipping delays for maintenance.
How it Fits into Nigeria’s Terrain
Owning an SUV in Nigeria means preparing for variable road conditions, from smooth expressways to untarred rural tracks. The G6’s high ground clearance and robust shock absorbers make it well-suited to this reality. Its cooling system is adapted for hot climates, and its design accommodates both city commutes and countryside drives. The 5-seater and 7-seater configurations also appeal to large families, government convoys, and business owners who prioritise space and resilience.
From a lifestyle perspective, the G6 fits comfortably into the aspirations of Nigerian professionals and middle-class households who want a locally built car that projects status while remaining functional. Unlike some imported SUVs, the G6 doesn’t require premium fuel or overly complex servicing procedures, which adds to its long-term practicality.
How Innoson G6 Stacks Up Against Rivals
When compared to foreign competitors like the Toyota RAV4, GAC GS8, and Ford Explorer, the Innoson G6 stands out primarily in terms of price and localisation. While a modern version Toyota RAV4 starts around ₦35–52 million, the G6’s price of ₦32 million provides a cost advantage without compromising too much on build quality. The G6T, at ₦20 million, offers an unbeatable seven-seater configuration in this range.
Durability is another strong point. The G6’s suspension system and body strength rival Toyota’s reliability and outperform many Chinese SUVs in rough terrain handling. However, fuel efficiency remains an area where imported vehicles still hold the edge. Resale value for Innoson cars is gradually improving as national adoption increases and awareness of local assembly quality grows.
Maintenance-wise, the G6 offers easy access to parts, which reduces downtime and cost of ownership. This is crucial in a market where spare parts availability can make or break a car’s popularity. IVM’s growing regional presence also helps assure after-sales service and technical support.
Conclusion
The Innoson IVM G6 represents a defining achievement in Nigeria’s automobile industry, a locally built SUV designed to meet the continent’s realities. It combines toughness, comfort, and modern technology while staying rooted in African practicality. The vehicle’s strengths lie in its adaptability to poor roads, accessible maintenance, and status as a symbol of local innovation.
As the market continues to evolve, Innoson’s approach may very well pave the way for more regional manufacturing across Africa. The G6 might not yet rival luxury SUVs from Japan or Germany in refinement, but it captures something arguably more important: independence, reliability, and pride. What’s your take, could the Innoson G6 be the model that finally convinces Nigerians to buy made-in-Nigeria vehicles?
