Last year, there were reports that Toyota is working on hybrid technology for their diesel engine. Now, there are reports, that the new hybrid diesel engine could be used for the Fortuner and will be going on sale in Thailand first.
The Fortuner Hybrid would be launched in 2023. It is expected that Toyota will use the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre engine. There will be an integrated starter motor and a special alternator. The SUV would be able to store the energy that is lost during braking. Then this energy would be used to produce additional torque and assist the engine when it is not at its most efficient state.
There will also be an idle engine start/stop system. So, the engine would shut down when the vehicle is stopped. For instance, at a traffic light or while the vehicle is stuck in traffic. The engine also restarts automatically when the driver needs to move the vehicle ahead. This also helps in saving fuel and lowering emissions.
Toyota launched Fortuner GR Sport
Toyota recently launched the Fortuner GR-S in the Indian market. It is the most expensive variant of the Fortuner as it is priced at Rs. 48.3 lakhs ex-showroom. It is based on the Fortuner Legender but there are cosmetic upgrades.
The bumpers have been slightly redesigned. The same is true for the grille and fog lamp housing. There is also a GR badging. Moreover, the alloy wheels are now blacked-out. The cabin is also now finished in an all-black theme and there are GT badges on the upholstery, on the push start button and even in the multi-information display.
It continues to come with the same 2.8-litre diesel engine that produces 204 PS of max power and 500 Nm of peak torque. The GR-S variant is offered only with a 6-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
The other variants of the Fortuner are sold as two-wheel drive. The petrol engine is a 2.7-litre unit that produces 166 Ps of max power and 245 Nm of peak torque. Both the engines are offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Toyota working on new-gen Innova
Toyota will launch the new-gen Innova soon. The manufacturer has registered the “Innova Hycross” name for the new-gen Innova. It will be based on a new platform which will be front-wheel driven. The platform is called TNGA-C. It will have a 100 mm longer wheelbase which should mean more space for the occupants.
The codename of the Innova Hycross is 560B. It will have a length of 4.7 metres. So, yes, it will be a bit shorter than the current Innova Crysta. However, there should be an ample amount of space for all the passengers because of the new monocoque platform. Toyota has also been able to shed 170 kgs of weight.
Keyword: Coming soon: Toyota Fortuner SUV with Mild Hybrid Diesel engine