Toyota New Fortuner Preview
The current Fortuner has been on sale in the Indian market since 2009 and thanks to its muscular and rugged looks, has a good fan following. Toyota has now officially revealed their most anticipated product of the year – the 2016 Fortuner. Like the current generation Fortuner, the 2016 version of SUV is also based on the Hilux platform and boasts of a new design and big list of features.
Exterior
The next-gen variant of the Fortuner gets a complete design overhaul and looks sharper than the present model. The fascia sports a new two-slat grille that extends up to the headlamps and has flanks that taper over the headlights. Toyota has equipped the Fortuner with LED daytime-running lamps and the top-end model will also get Bi-LED projector headlamps. These sweptback projector headlamps are surrounded by chrome embellishments to add to the bling factor.
The bumper is redesigned and gets a new black air dam while the fog lamp housings are surrounded by thick curved aluminium accents. On the side, Toyota has given the new Fortuner a floating pillar-less roof design that makes the SUV look quite interesting and attractive. The rear end also gets a similar slim-cut treatment with sleek tail lamps. The vehicle will be available with 17-inch and 18-inch wheel options.
Interior
And it’s not just the exterior, but Toyota has completely redesigned the cabin of the Fortuner as well. The dashboard layout is new and the instrument cluster comes with a multi-information display. The center console is vertically-oriented with a touch screen entertainment system, automatic AC controls, and a lot of storage spaces. The new three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel comes with audio controls and the car gets a new key fob. Higher variants are likely to come with rear parking sensors, keyless smart entry and start, downhill assist control, a powered tailgate and 18-inch alloys with highway tyres.
Engine and gearbox
One of the major changes on the next-gen Fortuner will be Toyota’s new GD series engines. The new 2.4-litre turbo-diesel is expected to replace the current 2.5-litre diesel unit, and a 2.8-litre mill will replace the current 3.0-litre unit. The new 2.4-litre 2GD-FTV motor is rated at 148bhp of power and 400Nm of peak torque. The 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV engine churns out 175bhp and 450Nm of torque. Depending on the variant, the transmission includes a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
Price and Competition
Toyota Kirloskar Motors will bring the car to the 2016 Auto Expo in India and might also launch it for the Indian market. It is expected to be priced in the Rs 25 lakh to Rs 28 lakh price bracket and will then lock horns with the Ford Endeavour, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and the upcoming Chevrolet Trailblazer.
