Since its launch back in 2009, the Fortuner has established itself as a favourite of large seven-seat SUV buyers in the country. The first-gen model held on to its place as the segment bestseller for a long time, despite the launch of newer SUVs such as the new Ford Endeavour and Chevrolet Trailblazer. Now Toyota has upped its game in the segment with the replacement of the first-gen model with the new larger and more upmarket second-generation Fortuner.
Engines
The Fortuner holds the distinction of being the only SUV in the segment to offer a petrol engine. The petrol engine in question is the same 166hp 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine from the Innova Crysta. The unit is offered with the choice of either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. For diesel buyers, the Fortuner is offered with a 177hp 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. The unit is paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox with both getting the option of all-wheel drive. The engines get three drive modes – Power, Economy and Normal (default).
Unlike its predecessor, the Fortuner isn’t a full-time all-wheel drive with the new Sigma 4 system getting three switchable modes – 2WD, 4WD High and 4WD Low. The system also features an active traction control system for all four wheels that individually brakes each wheel to help maintain traction.
Features
The Fortuner gets automatic LED projector headlamps, LED daytime-running lamps, keyless entry and go, powered tailgate with memory function for opening height, electric adjust and retractable wing mirrors, leather upholstery, eight-way power adjust driver seat, Eco and Power drive modes, auto climate control, rear air-con vents, reverse camera, rear parking sensors, 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and one-touch-tumble second row seats. In terms of safety, the Fortuner comes equipped with seven airbags and ABS.
The SUV also gets features like stability control, hill-hold assist, hill descent control, paddle shifters and cruise control depending on the model’s specifications. Additionally, all two-wheel- drive models come with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the all-wheel-drive iterations use larger 18-inch units.
Toyota is offering the new Fortuner in a choice of seven exterior paint shades – Phantom Brown, Super White, Grey Metallic, Attitude Black, Silver Metallic, Avant-Garde Bronze and White Pearl Crystal Shine.
Price
Prices for the Fortuner petrol start at Rs 25.92 lakh and go up to Rs 27.61 lakh. Prices for the diesel start at a more premium Rs 27.52 lakh and top off at Rs 31.12 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi).
The prices for the new Fortuner are as follows:
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 Diesel 4X2 MT Rs 27.52 lakh
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 Diesel 4X2 AT Rs 29.14 lakh
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 Diesel 4X4 MT Rs 30.05 lakh
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 Diesel 4X4 AT Rs 31.12 lakh
Toyota Fortuner 2.7 Petrol 4X2 MT Rs 25.92 lakh
Toyota Fortuner 2.7 Petrol 4X2 AT Rs 27.61 lakh
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Rivals
The Fortuner diesel rivals the likes of the Chevrolet Trailblazer (Rs 23.95 lakh) and the Ford Endeavour (Rs 23.78-29.77 lakh), both of which have recently seen a drop in pricing. Also a rival to the new Fortuner is the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. The petrol Fortuner, however, doesn't have any direct rival.
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