New Toyota Fortuner ticks all the boxes on- and off-road

Toyota South Africa has just launched the new Fortuner and we are absolutely loving the new styling cues and model lineup.

The Fortuner will now be available in 8 model derivatives, starting from a 2.4, all the way up to a 4.0 V6.

What’s changed?

The exterior sees many changes, including a restyled front end. A new grille design with new slim-line Bi-Beam headlights with DRLs, a revised lower bumper with new fog lamps and a new bonnet profile. The rear end has also been changed up with slimmer, wraparound LED tail lamps and a revamped tailgate with new, larger emblems. The new Fortuner now finds itself 15mm wider and 90mm longer overall.

The roofline now features solid roof rails and a shark fin antenna. The side profile along the doors has received an update including a scalloped design, while the blacked out B- and C-pillars give the impression of a floating roof. Toyota has also introduced two new colours into the range, namely Chestnut Brown and Cosmic Blue.

The interior has seen the biggest change with many luxury items making their way down from the Prado into the Fortuner. The 2.8l and V6 models will see a dark brown leather interior with leather accents, wood-grain and metallic trim.
Key-less entry featuring a fob with the Fortuner profile on it really impresses.

These models will also see the seven-inch touch-screen DVD-compatible entertainment system flush-mounted into the dashboard. The dashboard also houses a glovebox for keeping drinks chilled or warm. The 4.0 V6 model will include onboard navigation and a power tailgate.

A new gauge cluster sees the addition of a small four-inch TFT screen that gives you vehicle information readouts, managed by the steering wheel controls.
The Auto models will now feature paddle shift behind the steering wheel while the 2.8 GD-6 manual models are fitted with IMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) technology from the new Hilux. All will see HAC (Hill Assist Control) while 4x4 models DAC (Downhill Assist Control) with a selection dial for easily switching between the 4x4 driving modes. The Fortuner has also benefitted from the IMV (Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle) technology that Toyota has in place and now has the selectable Eco and Power Modes to assist with fuel consumption.

The steering column is telescopic and height adjustable while the driver’s seat is electrically controlled (on 2.8 GD-6 and 4.0 V6 models) to ensure a comfortable seating position, no matter what the terrain. Front and rear air conditioning keeps everyone comfortable while seat placement has been rearranged to make more legroom for passengers. Toyota has re-engineered the folding mechanisms for the rear passenger and jump seats for ease of use, and increasing loading capacity.

The Drive

We were very impressed with the drive and capability of the new Fortuner models. Having had the opportunity to sample all but the 2.7l VVTi petrol and 4.0 V6, the Fortuner proved itself over various terrain, showcasing the excellence that consumers have come to expect from their Fortuners. Toyota’s research and development of the ladder frame chassis featured in their IMV process has translated into excellent road holding and handling.

While the wind shear in the mountain passes pushed and pulled the raised body around somewhat, the Fortuner powered through while maintaining its drive with minimal body roll for a vehicle of this size.

Verdict

From soft sand, rock-strewn gravel roads and winding mountain passes, the Fortuner never faltered. With Toyota holding the market share of the sales of this segment with just over 900 units a month being sold, we are sure that they will continue to dominate. With a luxurious new interior and bold new styling, the Fortuner will continue to impress its followers and gain new ones at the same time.

Models

2.4 GD-6 Raised Body Manual	:R436 400
2.4 GD-6 Raised Body Automatic	:R453 400
2.7 VVT-i Raised Body Automatic	:R429 400
2.8 GD-6 Raised Body Manual	:R513 400
2.8 GD-6 4x4 Manual	:R571 400
2.8 GD-6 Raised Body Automatic	:R531 400
2.8 GD-6 4x4 Automatic	:R589 400
4.0 V6 4x4 Automatic	:R633 400

All retail prices include a three-year / 100 000km warranty and five-year / 90 000km service plan.