New-look Toyota Fortuner improved in the style stakes

The Toyota Fortuner has been a runaway success since its inception in South Africa in 2006. Now, in its second generation, the seven-seat Fortuner continues to blend styling, versatility, off-road prowess and practicality. 

Forming part of the Innovative Modular Vehicle (IMV) platform and sharing mechanical componentry with the Hilux, the SUV has wide appeal among South Africans.   

For 2020, the design and engineering teams focused on amplifying its core attributes.

New flagship grade

A new “range-topper” in the form of the 2.8 GD-6 VX has been added. 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.

Exterior styling

At the front a larger, blacked-out grille with wave-like mesh pattern is accompanied by a silver-accented “skid-plate” underrun for a tougher, more integrated look. Re-profiled Bi-LED headlamps provide a sleeker look, and are joined by LED fog lamps and strip-like LED turn-signal elements in the lower bumper. 

On the VX-grade, the side profile is enhanced with a thin chrome belt-line extending towards the rear and wrapping around the vehicle. 

New tail lamp units with integrated light guides deliver a more striking night-time signature.

Exterior colours

Seven colours are on offer, with Oxide Bronze joining the palette. Glacier White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey and Attitude Black provide neutral tones, while Cosmic Blue and Chestnut Brown remain the more expressive hues.

Wheels and tyres        

The 2.4 GD-6 models retain their 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 265-65-R17 rubber. The 2.8 GD-6 variants receive a new 18-inch alloy wheel with turbine design and metallic surface treatment, employing 265-60-R18 tyres.

Interior styling

One of the key change points is the shift to a black interior. The previous brown-leather interior has been replaced by sophisticated black ‘hide’ with silver stitching. 

A new instrument cluster design has been employed with metallic-blue dial faces complementing the blue interior lighting. These are augmented by an expanded, centrally mounted Multi-Information Display.

New-generation infotainment

An eight-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality now calls Fortuner home. Users can mirror applications off their cellphones for seamless connectivity. 

Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are included, and occupants can access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps. Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with USB input for additional media options.

Power and performance

The 2.8 GD-6 engine output has been boosted by 20kW to 150kW, with an additional 50Nm, bringing the figure to 500Nm. 

Engineers have improved performance and fuel economy by adopting a larger turbocharger with a ball-bearing cartridge, and a new common-rail injection system with a higher maximum fuel pressure of 250 MPa.

Higher outputs in the 1GD engine include a new, coated cylinder-head gasket, revised higher-rigidity cylinder block, and new exhaust manifold and gasket materials. 

Fuel economy benefits from a new combustion chamber that reduces cooling losses and more efficient exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) in the intake manifold. The fuel index ranges from 6.8 to 7.9 litres per 100km.

A balance shaft is incorporated into the 1GD engine. Six-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated to allow earlier lockup for improved acceleration and cooling performance.

Towing capacity of 2.4 GD-6 4×4 models has been boosted by 800kg, now registering 3.3 tons and matching that of the 2.8 GD-6 4×4 model. The 2.8 GD-6 4×4 models now boast a towing capacity of 3,300kg — an increase of 300kg.

Ride and handling

The body-on-frame construction of the IMV platform offers excellent balance between wheel travel, durability and ride comfort.

All models benefit from a new variable-flow control (VFC) power-steering pump that improves fuel economy while delivering a more natural driving feel. 

Spec enhancements

The 2.4 GD-6 variants now include Park Distance Control (PDC), full LED lighting, cruise control and touchscreen infotainment with CarPlay and Android Auto. 

A new Multi-Information Display (MID) screen includes a large, digital-speed read-out and steering wheel angle indicator for enhanced off-road usability.

Base specification items include one-touch power windows, reverse camera, steering switches, air-conditioned upper glovebox, multiple 12-volt power outlets, cup/bottle holders, and a tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column.

The 2.8 GD-6 ‘mid-grade’ adds an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, power seat adjustment, climate control and rear fog lamps. A leather steering wheel, leather dashboard accents and matte wood-trim complete the interior offering.

The VX model boasts seat heating, welcome lighting and the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system.    

Safety and security

Making its debut in Fortuner, TSS integrates a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control and road-sign recognition to offer additional peace of mind. 

TSS joins the existing array of airbags, ISOFIX, seatbelt pre-tensioners and a full suite of other safety aids.

A comprehensive anti-theft system, speed-dependent auto-door lock function and keyless entry are included.

Toyota Connect

All models come with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data. Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App. 

Warranty and maintenance

All models come with a three-year/100,000 km warranty, and a nine-service/90,000km service plan is standard. 

Model line-up and pricing

• 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