The 3rd and last of Toyota’s IMV project: Toyota introduces all-new Fortuner SUV

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation unveiled last Monday its much-anticipated all-new sports utility vehicle under the IMV project — the Fortuner. The new Toyota SUV completes the Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle (IMV) line-up together with the Hilux pickup, which was introduced last December, and the Innova multipurpose Vehicle, which was released last February. The new Fortuner boasts of a bold, almost Lexus SUV-like exterior design, plush interior, optimum safety features and cutting edge technology.

The Fortuner’s packaging combines the function of an SUV with the versatility of a minivan. Its eye-catching aerodynamic exterior design incorporates a color-keyed, chrome-accented front grille, multi-reflector quad headlamps, and multi-reflector foglamps.

Chrome side-view mirrors and door handles endow the Fortuner with an upmarket feel while sporty roof rails make it ready for weekend warriors. The Fortuner’s fender flares emphasize its 16-inch alloy wheels mounted on all-terrain 265/70R16 tires. The rear spoiler with integrated LED high-mount stop lamp combines with multi-reflector rear taillamps for that sporty look. Black side steps, a high door frame height, wide door openings, and a lower entry height from the ground all facilitate ease of ingress and egress.

From this large exterior design comes the Fortuner’s ivory-hued 7-passenger interior. Passengers of the new Fortuner will be treated to a luxurious ride with its plush moquette-covered seats. Second row seats are capable of 60-40 split while third row seats are capable of 50-50 split.

The Fortuner is equipped with Optitron meter gauges that are designed for better readability. Adding to this feature are a 2-DIN single CD/ MP3-capable head unit with a 6-speaker system. There is also a multi-information display console that updates time, direction, outside temperature and other important functions.

A dual air conditioning system with automatic climate control, accessory power outlets located at the front and rear, handy map lights, cup and bottle holders, and no less than 21 convenience pockets underscores the Fortuner’s practicality.

Under the hood lie two engine choices: a 3.0-liter diesel engine or a 2.7-liter VVT-i gasoline engine.

The state-of-the-art 3.0-liter Direct Injection Common Rail Diesel Engine, with a 4X4 Drivetrain, is perfectly complemented with an electronically-controlled automatic transmission. Equipped with a variable nozzle turbocharger and intercooler, it generates 163 ps and 343 Nm of torque at 1,400 to 3,200 rpm, the highest in its class.

A responsive and smoother show of power, on the other hand, is provided by the 2.7-liter, 4-cylinder Variable Valve Timing Intelligent (VVT-i) 4X2 gas engine. This engine develops 160 ps and a respectable 241 Nm of torque.

Suspension is by an independent double-wishbone coil spring and stabilizer at the front and a four-link suspension with coil spring, rigid axle and lateral rod at the rear.

Safety features include ABS dual airbags and Toyota’s Global Outstanding Assessment or GOA that puts a premium on passenger protection by employing a reinforced cabin, side impact beams, head-impact protection, special crumple zones, collapsible steering column, and an anti-intrusion brake pedal.

The new Fortuner comes in Super White II, Silver Metallic, Grayish Brown Metallic, Black Mica, and Dark Gray Mica Metallic. Retail prices for the two models are P1,193,000 for the Gas 4x2 A/T model and P1,498,000 for the Diesel 4x4 A/T. No manual transmission models are available.