Value is a key component of what the Toyota Fortuner is all about, as its name suggests.
Purchasing a Fortuner instead of a Prado, which was formerly the least expensive way to get into a Toyota 4×4 wagon with true off-road capability, will save you money, if not quite a fortune.
The Fortuner starts at $47,990 before taxes and fees for the road. That is precisely $5000 less than the base model Prado. For that money, you get seven seats as opposed to the Prado GX’s five seats, a 3000kg towing capability that is 500kg greater, plus extras like a rear diff lock and sidesteps that are not available on the base-model Prado.
If you upgrade to a mid-spec Fortuner GXL rather than a Prado with an equal specification, you’ll save much more moneyabout $7000, in fact. Additionally, you still get the advantages of a rear locker and a 300 kg greater towing capacity (2800 kg maximum) than the Prado.
Since 2005, the Fortuner nameplate has been used abroad. The Fortuner you see here, on the other hand, is brand-new and is based on the recently introduced eighth-generation Hilux.
A five-link coil-spring live axle replaces the Hilux’s leaf-spring live axle in the back of the chassis, where mechanical modifications from the Hilux are concentrated. Additionally, disc brakes take the place of the Hilux’s rear drum brakes, and the wheelbase is noticeably reduced by 335mm.
The 2.8-liter diesel engine, two gears, the two-speed part-time transfer case, the front and final drives, and the front of the chassis, including the double-wishbone suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, are all shared with the Hilux aside from the body. Additionally, there are shared body parts like the bonnet, windows (including the windscreen), and doors.
Much of the Fortuner’s testing and development, like that of the brand-new Hilux, took place in Australia, and the two vehicles share, among other locally produced features, Australian-designed suspension and underbody protection. Toyota claims that the Fortuner represents the largest single model development effort the company has ever made in Australia.
Toyota’s brand-new GD-1 2.8-liter diesel, where GD stands for “Global Diesel,” is the sole engine offered in the Fortuner. The GD-1 was recently installed in the Prado, albeit with a small alteration, in addition to serving as the main engine in the new Hilux.
The 2.8-litre diesel engine replaces the 3.0-litre diesel engine in Toyota’s wider model line despite being 227cc smaller and having a considerably lower compression ratio (for increased refinement and less noise). The 2.8-litre provides much more torque and marginally more power.
This all serves as evidence of its much increased combustion efficiency.
The 2.8-liter claims 450Nm when connected to the six-speed automatic transmission shared with the new Prado and Hilux. That is a huge 90Nm more than the 3.0-liter that was included in the previous Hilux and 40Nm more than the 3.0-liter as it debuted in the Prado. The 2.8-liter’s maximum torque is rated as 420Nm when coupled to the six-speed manual transmission, but its maximum power remains constant at 130kW regardless of the torque output.
Given that the Fortuner weighs more than 2100kg, 130kW may not convert to dazzling pedal-to-the-metal performance on the road, but the engine is nevertheless responsive, willing, and virtually effortless. The 2.8-liter is far quieter, smoother, and more refined than Toyota’s previous 3.0-litre diesel, and it works nicely in the Fortuner.
The six-speed automatic, which replaces the five-speed in the Prado and Hilux, is a nice refinement as well. It includes an additional overdrive ratio as opposed to the five-narrower speed’s ratio spread. For mid-range GXL and top-spec Crusade editions of the Fortuner, the six-speed automatic transmission has paddle shifters.
The engine feels more energized than when it is partnered with an automatic transmission, despite having a 30Nm lower maximum torque. All three Fortuner models, including the highest-spec Crusade, have the manual available. The GXL and Crusade models also include a “intelligent” mode.
This “intelligent” mode balances engine speeds when shifting and aids in preventing stalling at very low revs. This function is especially useful when travelling slowly off-road.
This six-speed manual differs from the six-speed manual in the re-engineered Prado but is shared with the Hilux. The new manual, like the new six-speed auto, has a wide-ratio spread with two overdrives and, like the auto, has a similarly tall sixth gear thanks in part to a higher axle ratio.
In many ways, the Fortuner rides and handles as you would expect from a car based on a truck, but because it doesn’t have to support a one-ton payload, the rear suspension is much softer and more compliant than that of an empty Hilux.
While the Fortuner’s ride and handling are not inherently bad, they do not compare to the comfort and plushness of a Prado, but then then, most things don’t. The Fortuner has flatter handing than a Prado, which is a plus. A Prado without KDSSand at least feels sportier to drive as a result.
The steering calibration of the Fortuner was performed locally, and while it is light at low speeds, it provides good feel and feedback at greater road speeds. Due to its body-on-chassis design, the Fortuner also does a fantastic job of isolating suspension and road noise.
The Fortuner’s off-road capabilities are undeniable. Numerous characteristics are similar to those of the Hilux, such as the clearance, underbody protection, and approach and departure angles. However, because of the shorter wheelbase, it has a better ramp-over angle and a smaller turning circle.
Additionally, it makes use of the Hilux’s simple yet reliable part-time dual-range 4×4 technology. While shifting from 2-High to 4-High is simple to do while driving thanks to the rotary-dial selection, shifting into or out of low-range requires that the car be stopped and in neutral, as you might anticipate. The electromagnetic actuator for the transfer case at least doesn’t seem to balk, which is more than you can say for some other similar setups where the stick-shift transfer has been replaced with push-button or rotary-dial choices.
The Fortuner has 440mm of wheel travel at the back versus 520mm for the Hilux. A Prado GX and GXL’s coil-sprung rear axle has 465mm of travel, compared to 565mm for the KDSS-equipped Prado VX and Kakadu. All Fortuner models include an off-road tuned “A-TRC” traction control system as well as a driver-switched rear diff lock that aids when you run out of rear-wheel travel.
A Toyota 4×4 is to be expected to have sturdy recovery hooks on the front and back, an inner guard for the engine’s air intake, and off-road-oriented wheels and tires. In actuality, the Fortuner’s wheel and tire specifications are the same as those of the Hilux and Prado.
The Fortuner’s interior design is highly reminiscent of a passenger car, however the dashboard is cluttered and, as is customary with Toyota, certain controls are situated in awkward locations and too low on the dash.
Better news is that all models feature adjustable driver seat height and steering wheel tilt and reach, making it simple to choose a comfortable position. Even though it’s a bit of a squeeze to fit three adults across the back seat’s breadth, the second row’s legroom is also surprisingly good.
To increase the legroom in the third row, the second-row seat can be moved forward and backward. There is still plenty of room for taller children in the third row thanks to the second row being shifted forward.
As opposed to the Prado 150’s third-row seats, which folded down into a raised floor, these seats fold up against the side windows. However, if you want to completely delete them, you cannot unclip them. Once the third row of chairs is extended, there is typically little room for luggage.
The Fortuner has a single back door that opens from the top, and the full-size spare wheel is located underneath the body.
It’s difficult to imagine the Fortuner not succeeding for Toyota. It features a sturdy construction, excellent road manners, and true off-road prowess.
Most significantly, it adds Toyota durability to a 4×4 family wagon at a lower cost than the Prado. Additionally, it typically costs less and has more features.
It lacks the Prado’s very useful 150-liter fuel tank and isn’t as comfy or refined, but it will undoubtedly make many consumers second-guess which Toyota they should get.
A top-spec, leather-clad Fortuner Crusade is available for the same price as the popular Prado GXL, for instance.
The sales of current rival vehicles like the Isuzu MU-X, Holden Colorado 7, and the soon-to-be-updated Mitsubishi Challenger will undoubtedly be impacted by the Fortuner.
Do Toyota Fortuners in India have diff locks?
The Toyota Fortuner received a makeover in 2021. You get additional tools, newer styling, and even a stronger diesel engine. There is also a brand-new model called the Legender, which stands out for its more angular design and upmarket interior.
The 2021 Fortuner’s revised grille, bigger “inlets” beneath the fog lights, new DRLs on its chin, and a broader scuff plate are all visible from the front. On the other hand, the Legender receives a brand-new nose. The deep air dam and narrow “grille” give the boat a sharper, more rakish appearance. Additionally, it receives a two-tone paint job.
The cabin hasn’t seen any significant changes. Although some materials, particularly those used on the Legender, have been enhanced, the robust, built-to-last feeling is still present. However, a lot of the plastics are still harsh, the buttons feel cheap, and that crucial quality feel you get from other competitors is absent.
Despite this, the cabin is still among the most comfortable in existence. You can select a comfortable driving position with the help of the wide, powered front seats, which provide strong shoulder and thigh support. Outside visibility is also good.
The back is also quite comfy. Legroom is generally good once you are seated, however getting to the seats requires a little climbing. There is considerable thigh support, the seats can glide forward or back, and the backrest may be adjusted. There is a good amount of headroom, and you have your own blower controls.
The third row is likewise very functional. But getting in is anything but simple. Although the second-row seat may be readily flipped, the third-row access opening is small. The third row’s seats aren’t overly uncomfortable. Although there is limited headroom and you are sat low, unlike in some competitors, you don’t feel as though you are sitting on the floor.
This is the second-best option in the class, but MG’s Gloster has the most room on the third row.
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There is also a lot more kit with this 2021 update. A bigger 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, linked technology, chilled seats, and a Premium JBL 10-speaker sound system with an additional powered subwoofer are all included.
The JBL audio system is absent from the Legender, although it does receive a lot more equipment. A kick sensor to open the tailgate, two-tone seats, ambient lighting, an electronic rearview mirror, wireless charging, and a USB port in the back. These functions are not available on the standard Fortuner.
However, you are still without a sunroof, an electronic parking brake, or power folding third row seats.
The revised 2.8-liter diesel engine, which now produces 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque (automatic only), is the biggest technical improvement to the Fortuner. It has a significant impact on how the SUV drives. The use of a more potent variable nozzle turbo, which is now controlled by an electric motor, has been the main factor in the boost in power. Just 1,600 rpm produces a significant torque boost, and Toyota has enhanced airflow at higher engine rpms as well.
With the throaty growl of the diesel being less audible in this BS6 tune, it sounds a little more polished. While cruising, it also seems smoother. At higher engine speeds, it is still a little boomy, but it is not as loud as to be quite annoying.
Three driving modesEco, Normal, and Sportare available for the engine, which is more responsive. It’s wonderful that the Sport setting makes the engine reactions smooth and sharper, and that even the six-speed transmission is responsive and simple to use with your right foot.
The new Fortuner is now faster against the clock thanks to the engine improvements. Now, it needs just 11.2 seconds to reach 100 kph, outpacing the MG Gloster’s more potent acceleration time by a small margin. The new model accelerates more quickly in gear as well. Overall, there has been an increase in performance and refinement.
The suspension has also undergone minor modifications to increase ride comfort. Although it is more flexible, the ride is still hectic with minor movements perceived due to the body on frame setup and huge wheels. Additionally, it still rolls in corners like other body-on-frame SUVs and the steering is a little heavy at low speeds.
That so, driving on a highway is not unpleasant. As long as you are not overly ambitious, you can even enjoy driving the new Fortuner quickly because the steering has a decent level of feel.
Over truly difficult terrain and unmade areas is where it excels. Without giving it a second thought, it can simply cross the street. The Fortuner is so unfazed by almost everything, which is what makes an SUV like this so appealing.
Although we were unable to test the four-wheel drive system off-road, Toyota has also improved it and added a differential lock.
All of their competitors are more expensive than the top-of-the-line 2021 Fortuner and Legender, which have ex-showroom prices of 37.79 lakh and 38.30 lakh, respectively. It doesn’t get a sunroof, and in many ways, it still drives and feels like the serious off-roader that it is. The cabin does not significantly improve in quality.
However, Toyota now offers additional equipment, the improved four-wheel drive system makes it more capable off-road, and the added performance makes it easier to drive. The choice between the top-of-the-line 4X4 Fortuner and the 4X2-only Legender will be challenging for those interested in the Fortuner.
Do you sacrifice style and refinement for genuine off-road prowess? The choice is difficult. We can, however, rather confidently state that this SUV is the one for you if you’re seeking for a robust, dependable off-roader with a no-nonsense attitude.
Which vehicles feature a diff lock?
Two wheels on an axle can spin at the same speed thanks to a differential lock system.
Differential locks function so that even if one wheel loses traction, the other may continue to move the car forward.
Vehicles are shielded against traction loss by differential locks (or locking differentials, as you may choose). This explains why they are so common on off-road-oriented vehicles.