The Toyota Fortuner has seen a recent update, giving it a new look and an expanded list of standard features.
Prices for the SUV now start at R653,500, up to a window sticker of R915,400 for the range-topping VX.
For just another R7,400, South Africans looking for an off-road SUV can also get the top-spec Isuzu Mu-X Onyx, which has an asking price of R922,800.
Given the popularity of both these brands in the local automotive scene, we put together this comparison to see what the two cars bring to the 4×4 table.
Engine
The top-end Toyota is running on a 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel platform with 150kW and 500Nm to its name.
Using a six-speed automatic gearbox, the Fortuner reports a fuel consumption of 7.9l/100km and can reach a top speed of 180km/h.
The VX also has four-wheel drive and is certified to be able to tow up to 3,300kg (3.3 tonnes), with ground clearance and maximum water wading capabilities coming in at 279mm and 700mm, respectively.
Powering the Isuzu is a larger 3.0-litre, turbo-diesel drivetrain, though it has a lower performance ceiling of 140kW and 450Nm.
It is equipped with a six-speed auto just like the Fortuner, and its smaller output does result in a slightly better fuel consumption of 7.6l/100km.
The Mu-X’s top speed is also comparable to the Toyota’s, being only 5km slower at 175km/h, and like its competitor, it has 4×4.
Furthermore, it can tow 200kg more than the VX, resulting in a maximum payload of 3,500kg as well as wade an additional 100mm into liquid, despite its ground clearance being a lower 235mm.
Features
The revitalized Toyota has been given a new face with a redesigned grille, automatic LED headlights, and daytime running lights (DRLs).
Additionally, the SUV now comes with 18-inch alloys, side steps, roof rails, sequential LED indicators, and chrome door handles.
For the interior, the upholstery sees a two-tone black and red makeover with partial leather seats and the dashboard sports an 8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which can also be used to display the surround-view camera.
On top of this, the VX gets front and rear park sensors, an 11-speaker JBL sound system, automatic dual-zone climate control, ambient cabin lighting, eight-way adjustable and heated front seats, keyless entry and start, adaptive cruise control, hill descent control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors.
The Isuzu’s spec sheet is much the same as its contemporary, offering LED headlights and DRLs, side steps, roof rails, hill descent control, adaptive cruise control, all-round park distance control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, keyless entry and start, ambient illumination, heated and eight-way adjustable front seats, and dual-zone climate control.
Where it differs is with bigger 20-inch alloy rims, full leather seats, eight speakers instead of 11, front and rear cameras instead of a 360-degree system, and a larger 9-inch central media screen.
Both vehicles also have seven seats, and with all three rows up the Fortuner has 200 litres of space while the Mu-X has 311 litres. With the rear bench folded, the Toyota offers 716 litres while the Isuzu grants access to 1,119 litres.
Pricing
The Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX has a South African starting price of R915,400.
Each purchase comes with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 9-service/90,000km service plan.
The Isuzu Mu-X 3.0TD Onyx 4×4 has a local starting price of R922,800.
This includes a 5-year/120,000km warranty and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.
Toyota Fortuner
Isuzu Mu-X
Keyword: Upgraded Toyota Fortuner vs Isuzu MU-X – A tough battle