Toyota in an effort to counter the launch of the all new Ford Everest has introduced a pile of enhancements to its best selling Fortuner. It will maybe not have the desired impact as the Everest it’s competing with is not just a simple facelift, it’s a completely new modern vehicle bursting with design and technical features.
Let’s have a look at the main areas Toyota have improved the current Fortuner.
The exterior design styling projects a bolder more aggressive look with catamaran-inspired looks mimicking catamaran’s twin hulls. The all-new sharply angular front and rear bumper treatment featuring exclusive aero-corner moulding is complemented by black trapezoidal foglamps housing upfront and L-shaped reflector inserts at the rear. Black mesh upper grille is slimer while the lower aperture has been considerably inflated contributing to the attitude and assertiveness of the styling. The grey contrast skidplate adds to the aesthetics and enhances functionality.
From the rear a new taillight cluster design and a piano black numberplate garnish compliments the black badge treatment which is new and offered across the model line-up.
New two tone black and metal, multi-layered, machine-cut finished 18-inch alloy wheels provide a final flourish. The 2.8-litre buyers can specify the new bi-tone colour option which pairs the black roof with the exclusive Platinum Pearl White exterior.
Inside leather is standard across the range and again for the 2.8-litre customers. they can complement the Bi-tone exterior with a black and maroon leather with matching maroon stitching upholstery.
Its worth pointing out the Fortuner had significant upgrades in 2022 after its launch in 2016 which means it already had many bells and whistles including Panoramic View monitor, 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, Lane Assist, Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Pre-Crash System and many more safety features.
Still offered in two engine choices the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four cylinder engine developing 150kW and 500 Nm mated to a six-speed automatic transmission or the 2.4 GD-6 producing 110 kW and 400 Nm available in both manual and auto.
The Fortuner is the SUV of choice for many and achieves average sales of 800 units per month in South Africa and commands 40% market share in the segment. In 2020 the Fortuner recorder a massive 57% market share which is a very positive indicator of its popularity.
Is it enough to fight off the all new Ford Everest, which is a full new vehicle with plenty of modern tech and design features. The New Ranger is already launched and selling as fast as they come off the production line which gives a strong indication of how well the Everest will sell.
What is your Choice!!!!
2.4 GD-6 RB MT R653 500
2.4 GD-6 RB AT R677 500
2,4 GD-6 4X4 AT R709 800
2.8 GD-6 RB R794 600
2.8 GD-6 RB VX R837 800
2.8 GD-6 4X4 R873 500
2.8 GD-6 4X4 VX R915 400
Bi-tone models command a R10 200 premium.
100 000 km warranty and 9-sevice/90 000 km service plan.
