All-new Toyota Fortuner previewed

Members of the local media were, well, fortunate to not just get a glimpse of but touch, smell, and clamber aboard the second-generation Toyota Fortuner. Previewed at this year’s staging of Toyota Motor Philippines’ (TMP) annual media thanksgiving party, from all accounts the new Fortuner is head and shoulders above the previous iteration.

Sleeker, sharper, and equipped with new niceties, the all-new Fortuner reflects Toyota’s desire to focus on “more distinct, sleek, and powerful design while improving performance,” according to a TMP release. Hiroji Nakajuma, executive chief engineer of the vehicle, said that the “concept was to build a true SUV that has style and confidence. The all-new Fortuner is the outcome of our continuous efforts to redefine toughness.”

Immediately obvious to observers is the growth in girth and length. It is longer at 4,795mm (up 90mm), wider at 1,855mm (plus 15mm), yet squatter at 1,835mm (down 15mm) – giving the SUV a sleeker profile. The G grade sports 17-inch alloy wheels; the more premium V gets 18-inchers. The front and rear have been recast into more aggressive looking studies in beauty.

Interiors have been reimagined and refurbished. Expect V variants to be “in hues of dark brown, black and wood trim,” while G grades will be in “colors of chamois, black and dark wood trim details.” A capacitive touchscreen audio system with navigation and multi-information display comes standard.

Under the hood, the new Fortuners are motivated by new GD-series engines, mated to a new six-speed transmission. Toyota says this combination allows the balance of power and fuel economy. Motorists can also expect less vibration and road noise even on rough roads. Significantly, “handling and ride comfort (have) been improved.” A Drive Mode Select feature common in all grades also bestows drivers with the choice between fuel-conscious or more vigorous driving.

The top-grade V (4x4) boasts front, driver knee, side, and curtain shield airbags. V variants also get a push start system and smart keyless entry feature.

The all-new Fortuner will be available to the public in March, and is priced as follows: 2.4 G Diesel M/T (4x2): P1.386 million; 2.7 G Gas A/T (4x2): P1.392 million; 2.4 G Diesel A/T (4x2): P1.476 million; 2.4 V Diesel A/T (4x2): P1.736 million; 2.4 V Diesel A/T (4x2) White Pearl: P1.751 million; 2.8 V Diesel A/T (4x4): P2.126 million; and 2.8 V Diesel A/T (4x4) White Pearl: P2.141 million.

Seven colors are available: Super White, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Gray Metallic, White Pearl, and new hues Phantom Brown Metallic and Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic.