The second-generation Toyota Fortuner diesel was launched recently at a starting price of Rs 27.52 lakh, making it around Rs 2.3 lakh costlier than its predecessor. It is also positioned at a premium over the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (Rs 27.12 lakh) and the new Ford Endeavour (Rs 23.78 lakh), its direct rivals.
Order books for the new Fortuner were opened on November 7, and within no time, the SUV saw the waiting period cross two months in many cities. Toyota announced it received over 5,400 bookings and 16,000 enquiries for the new SUV in just two weeks of its launch. The automaker also stated that it was the automatic variants that garnered most interest.
The Fortuner comes with a 2.8-litre diesel engine with optional 4WD and, for the first time, a 2.7-litre petrol with only 2WD (priced from Rs 25.92 lakh), with both engines available in manual as well as automatic gearboxes. Dealers in major cities also told us that it is the auto ’box-equipped diesel models (2WD and 4WD) that are in high demand. Deliveries for these models are expected to take place sometime late December or early January. Market buzz is that dealers are asking customers to buy the ‘2017-manufactured’ SUV to reduce this backlog. The 2017 Fortuner will be available for delivery from late February. The petrol model, however, is readily delivered at most locations where stock is available.
Just like its predecessor, the Fortuner’s Pearl White shade has recorded most orders. A new ‘Phantom Brown’ is the next in-demand colour.
Toyota is also looking to lower this waiting period, with N Raja, director and senior VP (Sales and Marketing), Toyota Kirloskar Motors, saying that the automaker was trying its best to deliver the products to customers at the earliest.
(all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi)
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