Toyota may have just launched the Fortuner 4x4 with an automatic transmission, but that’s not going to be its only addition to the popular SUV model. The carmaker has also added a cheaper version of the Fortuner equipped with a 2.5-litre diesel engine. 

The Fortuner 2.5L, features the same 2494cc turbo-diesel engine that’s been on use on the Innova. However, power and torque figures are significantly higher on the Fortuner 2.5L. In its application on the Fortuner, the engine makes 142bhp at 3400rpm and 34.9kgm of torque between 1600-2800rpm. For reference, the Fortuner 3.0L makes 168 bhp at 3600rpm and 36.7kgm between 1400-3400rpm.

Toyota will not sell the Fortuner 2.5L with four-wheel drive, but interestingly, it is offered with an optional five-speed automatic transmission. The decision to offer an auto could be to do with the fact that Fortuner 3.0L sales are evenly split between the auto and manual versions. The standard gearbox is a five-speed manual. While the 2.5L on power vis-à-vis the 3.0L, it will also have to lug marginally less weight than comparable 3.0L 4x2 models, so performance shouldn’t be bad.

The Fortuner 2.5L is offered with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) body package as standard, which includes a dual-tone radiator grille, side skirts and a rear spoiler in addition to body graphics. However, the 2.5L loses the 3.0L’s HID lights and features regular halogen headlamps instead. This and the voice-activated navigation system apart, the Fortuner 2.5L gets most of what’s on offer on the updated 3.0L. Items such as leather seats, powered driver’s seat, steering-mounted audio controls, climate control, rear camera and touchscreen interface for the audio system are a part of standard equipment. Safety kit includes 2 airbags. 

The Toyota Fortuner 2.5-litre is available in two variants and is priced at Rs 24.44 lakh for the manual-gearbox version while the automatic costs Rs 25.44 lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi).

Nikhil Bhatia