The new Toyota Fortuner has been launched in South Africa, with a starting price of R566,800.
The new Fortuner features “more style, luxury, and features” and now includes a flagship grade model which will be the top-of-the-range option.
“While a two-tier grade strategy has been in place since introduction, changing market requirements have led to the introduction of a new range-topper in the form of the new 2.8 GD-6 VX,” said Toyota.
“The VX suffix is employed on Toyota’s other SUV ranges – RAV4, Prado, and Land Cruiser 200 – and denotes the highest specification level on offer.”
Performance
The headline act of the new Fortuner is the upgraded 2.8 GD-6 engine, which has been boosted by 20kW to 150kW.
Torque has also been increased by an additional 50Nm, bringing the total figure to 500Nm.
“Toyota engineers have improved performance and fuel economy simultaneously by adopting a larger, heavy-duty turbocharger with a ball-bearing cartridge for exceptionally crisp and strong throttle response, and a new common-rail injection system with a higher maximum fuel pressure,” said Toyota.
The fuel index now ranges from 6.8-7.9 litres per 100 kilometres – depending on engine and drivetrain configuration – while the six-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated to “allow earlier lockup for improved acceleration and cooling performance, especially while towing”.
This has allowed Toyota to increase the towing capacity of 2.8 GD-6 4×4 models by 300kg – and the SUV now offers a total towing capacity of 3,300kg.
Additionally, 2.4 GD-6 4×4 models have received a towing capacity increase of 800kg – taking their towing capacity to 3,300kg as well.
In the wheels department, Toyota has retained the 17-inch alloys with 265-65-R17 types for the 2.4 GD-6, while the 2.8 GD-6 models have been fitted with new 18-inch alloys and 265-60-R18 tyres.
Exterior and interior
Toyota has implemented a range of upgrades to the interior and exterior styling of the Fortuner.
A noticeable change is the “shift to a black interior, in line with market requests”.
“The previously employed brown-leather interior has been replaced by sophisticated black hide with silver contrast stitching,” said Toyota.
This is then paired with a new instrument cluster with metallic-blue dial faces, and a new 8-inch-display infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The 2.8 GD-6 models (mid-range and VX) are also equipped with embedded audio visual navigation, added Toyota.
Additional features on the Fortuner include:
- Park distance control
- Full LED lighting
- Cruise control
- Power windows
- Reverse camera
- Multiple 12-volt power outlets
“The 2.8 GD-6 mid-grade adds an electrochromic rear view mirror, power seat adjustment for both driver and passenger, climate control, as well as rear fog lamps. A leather steering wheel, leather dashboard accents, and matte wood-trim complete the interior offering.”
The new VX model then boasts seat heating, welcome lighting, and the Toyota Safety Sense system.
On the outside, the Fortuner will be available in seven colours: Oxide Bronze, Glacier White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey, Attitude Black, Cosmic Blue and Chestnut Brown.
South African pricing
The local pricing for the new Fortuner is detailed below.
- Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 RB 6MT – R566,800
- Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 RB 6AT – R588,000
- Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 4X4 6AT – R616,700
- Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT – R700,100
- Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4X4 6AT – R770,400
- Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 RB VX 6AT – R720,200
- Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4X4 VX 6AT – R790,500
All Fortuner models come with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty and a 9-services/90,000 km service plan.
Service intervals are 10,000 km or every 12 months.
Toyota Fortuner – Photos
Keyword: New Toyota Fortuner – Everything you need to know