Toyota Fortuner: Zabardast SUV with 14.4 kmpl Mileage
Are you in the market for a rugged yet luxurious SUV that can handle both city streets and off-road adventures? Look no further than the Toyota Fortuner.
This popular mid-size SUV has been a favorite among Indian buyers for years, and for good reason. With its powerful engine options, spacious interior, and advanced features, the Fortuner continues to set the standard in its segment. But what makes it stand out from the competition? Let’s take a closer look at this impressive vehicle and find out why it might just be your next dream car.
The Fortuner: A Brief Overview
The Toyota Fortuner is a 7-seater SUV that has been dominating the Indian market since its introduction. Built on the same platform as the rugged Hilux pickup truck, the Fortuner combines the toughness of a workhorse with the comfort and luxury expected in a premium SUV. It’s available in both petrol and diesel variants, with 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrain options to suit various needs and preferences.
What sets the Fortuner apart is its versatility. Whether you’re navigating through crowded city streets, cruising on the highway, or tackling rough terrain, this SUV is designed to handle it all with ease. Its imposing road presence and muscular design make it a head-turner, while its refined interior ensures a comfortable ride for all occupants.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Toyota Fortuner offers two robust engine options:
- 2.7-liter petrol engine: This powerplant churns out 166 PS of power and 245 Nm of torque.
- 2.8-liter diesel engine: The diesel variant delivers an impressive 204 PS and up to 500 Nm of torque, depending on the transmission.
Both engines come paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine, in particular, offers strong low-end torque, making it ideal for both city driving and off-road adventures.
One of the Fortuner’s standout features is its fuel efficiency. Despite its size and power, the diesel variant boasts a claimed mileage of up to 14.4 kmpl, which is quite impressive for a vehicle in this segment. The petrol variant offers a respectable 10 kmpl, making it a viable option for those who prefer gasoline engines.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Toyota Fortuner shines when it comes to ride quality and handling. Its body-on-frame construction provides excellent stability, while the suspension setup offers a good balance between comfort and handling. The SUV features double wishbone front suspension and a four-link coil spring rear suspension, which work together to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride.
For those who love to venture off the beaten path, the Fortuner doesn’t disappoint. The 4×4 variants come equipped with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system that includes low-range gearing and a locking rear differential. This setup, combined with the Fortuner’s high ground clearance of 225mm, makes it a capable off-roader right out of the box.
On the road, the Fortuner feels planted and stable, even at high speeds. The steering, while on the heavier side, offers good feedback, inspiring confidence during cornering and high-speed maneuvers. However, its size can make it a bit challenging to maneuver in tight city spaces, but the available parking sensors and rearview camera help mitigate this issue.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside the Toyota Fortuner, and you’re greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The interior exudes a premium feel, with high-quality materials used throughout. Here are some key features that enhance the Fortuner’s comfort and convenience:
- Leather upholstery with ventilated front seats
- 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 11-speaker JBL audio system
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Panoramic sunroof (on select variants)
The Fortuner’s three-row seating configuration can comfortably accommodate seven adults, with ample head and legroom in the first two rows. The third row, while suitable for children or short trips, may be a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys. However, with the third row folded, you get a cavernous cargo space, making the Fortuner practical for family outings and long road trips.
Safety Features
Toyota has always prioritized safety, and the Fortuner is no exception. It comes packed with a host of safety features to protect you and your loved ones. Some of the notable safety features include:
- 7 airbags, including driver knee airbag
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Brake Assist
- Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
- Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for 4×4 variants
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Front and rear parking sensors
- 360-degree camera (on select variants)
These features, combined with the Fortuner’s robust build quality, have earned it a 5-star safety rating from ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program), making it one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Pricing and Variants
The Toyota Fortuner is available in multiple variants to cater to different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the current pricing structure (ex-showroom, Delhi):
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
|---|---|
| 2.7 Petrol 4×2 MT | ₹33.43 Lakh |
| 2.7 Petrol 4×2 AT | ₹34.98 Lakh |
| 2.8 Diesel 4×2 MT | ₹37.79 Lakh |
| 2.8 Diesel 4×2 AT | ₹39.72 Lakh |
| 2.8 Diesel 4×4 MT | ₹41.47 Lakh |
| 2.8 Diesel 4×4 AT | ₹43.44 Lakh |
| Legender 4×2 AT | ₹44.63 Lakh |
| Legender 4×4 AT | ₹48.43 Lakh |
While the Fortuner may seem pricey compared to some competitors, its reliability, resale value, and overall package make it a worthwhile investment for many buyers.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
The Toyota Fortuner faces stiff competition in the mid-size SUV segment from vehicles like the Ford Endeavour, MG Gloster, and Mahindra Alturas G4. However, it holds its own with several unique selling points:
- Toyota’s legendary reliability and low maintenance costs
- Powerful engine options with excellent off-road capabilities
- Spacious and well-appointed interior
- Strong resale value in the Indian market
- Wide service network across the country
While each competitor has its strengths, the Fortuner’s combination of ruggedness, comfort, and brand value makes it a top choice for many SUV buyers in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the mileage of Toyota Fortuner?
The Toyota Fortuner offers a mileage of 10 kmpl for the petrol variant and up to 14.4 kmpl for the diesel variant, as per ARAI certification.
Q2. Is Toyota Fortuner good for long drives?
Yes, the Toyota Fortuner is excellent for long drives. Its comfortable seating, smooth ride quality, and powerful engines make it ideal for highway cruising and extended road trips.
Q3. What is the ground clearance of Toyota Fortuner?
The Toyota Fortuner has a ground clearance of 225mm, which is ample for tackling rough roads and light off-roading.
Q4. Does Toyota Fortuner have a sunroof?
Yes, select variants of the Toyota Fortuner come equipped with a panoramic sunroof, adding to the premium feel of the SUV.
Q5. What is the service cost of Toyota Fortuner?
The average annual service cost for a Toyota Fortuner is around ₹20,000 to ₹25,000, depending on the variant and usage. Toyota’s reputation for reliability often translates to lower long-term maintenance costs compared to some competitors.
Wrapping Up
The Toyota Fortuner continues to be a dominant force in the mid-size SUV segment, and for good reason. Its combination of powerful performance, comfortable interior, advanced features, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability make it an attractive option for those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. While it may come at a premium price, the Fortuner’s overall package and strong resale value make it a worthwhile investment for many buyers. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, a highway cruiser, or an off-road adventurer, the Toyota Fortuner deserves a spot on your shortlist.
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