Toyota Fortuner

The design changes on the 2021 facelift of the Toyota Fortuner are subtle yet impactful. The front of the vehicle now features a larger grille, sleeker LED projector headlamps with revised DRLs, and a more aggressive front bumper with silver skid plates. The fog lamps have also been made smaller, contributing to the overall sharper look of the front fascia. The Legender variant further enhances this sporty appeal with an even more aggressive front grille, quad-LED headlights, sequential turn indicators, and a dual-tone roof​.

From the side, the major highlight is the new 18-inch alloy wheels for the 4WD variants, while the 2WD models get 17-inch wheels. The Fortuner’s dimensions remain large and imposing, measuring 4795 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1835 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2745 mm. The rear has minimal changes, with the LED taillights updated for a more modern look​.

The overall design update strikes a balance between ruggedness and sophistication, ensuring the Fortuner maintains its dominant road presence, which is key to its appeal.

The Toyota Fortuner comes with two engine options: a 2.7-liter petrol engine and a 2.8-liter diesel engine. The diesel engine has seen a significant power boost, now delivering 201 bhp and 500 Nm of torque in the automatic variant, while the manual diesel offers 420 Nm of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission provides a smooth driving experience, particularly in city traffic, and the engine’s torque delivery is linear, making it ideal for both highway overtakes and off-road conditions​.

The petrol engine, on the other hand, offers 164 bhp and 245 Nm of torque and is available only with a 2WD setup. While this engine offers decent performance, it doesn’t match the power or torque of the diesel engine, making the diesel variants the more preferred choice for buyers seeking more robust performance​.

The Fortuner also introduces three driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—that adjust throttle response and transmission behavior, catering to different driving needs. The Legender variant is available exclusively with the diesel engine paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Toyota Fortuner continues to excel in off-road driving, thanks to its body-on-frame chassis and 4WD system. The updated model now comes with Auto LSD (Limited Slip Differential) and a lockable differential, which improve traction on slippery surfaces. These features, combined with the downhill assist control and high and low range options for the 4WD variants, make the Fortuner a capable off-roader​.

On the road, the Fortuner offers a comfortable ride with a suspension setup designed to handle rough terrains with ease. However, like most body-on-frame SUVs, there’s still noticeable body roll when cornering at high speeds. The new variable flow control steering system in the diesel variants makes the steering lighter at lower speeds, improving city maneuverability, but some drivers may find it less engaging compared to the previous model.

Inside the Toyota Fortuner, the cabin feels premium, though it still lacks some of the modern touches found in competitors like the MG Gloster and Ford Endeavour. The front seats are both ventilated and electrically adjustable, which is a welcome addition across all variants​(Toyota Fortuner). The 8.0-inch Smart Playcast touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the interface could have been larger, given the size of the SUV’s cabin.

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The second-row seats are spacious, offering good thigh support and comfort for long journeys. However, the lack of captain seats may disappoint some buyers, especially those looking for more luxury-oriented configurations. The third row remains cramped, and while the seats can recline to improve headroom, it’s best suited for short trips or children​.

The Legender variant adds some exclusive interior features like dual-tone upholstery, a wireless charger, and an 11-speaker JBL sound system, though these are limited to the 4WD variants.

The 2021 Toyota Fortuner comes with a host of new tech features. The 8.0-inch touchscreen system includes connected car technology, offering features like geo-fencing, real-time tracking, and last parked location​. However, these features feel somewhat basic when compared to rivals that offer more advanced telematics systems.

The Legender variant also comes with exclusive features such as a kick-to-open tailgate, sequential turn indicators, and additional interior touches like ambient lighting. The standard electric tailgate with memory function is a convenient feature across the range

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Fortuner diesel manual offers around 12-13 km/l, while the automatic variant delivers slightly lower mileage at 10-11 km/l due to its larger torque band and 4WD setup. The petrol variant offers around 9-10 km/l, making it less efficient than the diesel​.

The 2.8-liter diesel engine offers excellent performance with 201 bhp and 500 Nm of torque (in the automatic), while the 2.7-liter petrol engine is less powerful, delivering 164 bhp and 245 Nm of torque. The diesel’s torque, especially in the automatic variant, makes it the ideal choice for off-road driving, towing, and long highway trips​.

The Toyota Fortuner diesel variant can reach a top speed of around 175 km/h, while the petrol variant can manage 180 km/h. The SUV’s performance, especially in the diesel, feels strong across different terrains, but it’s not meant to be a high-speed performer like more road-focused SUVs​.

The interior of the Fortuner feels premium, with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery. The Chamois and Black seat options provide a classy feel, but the lack of advanced tech features like a panoramic sunroof may feel like a miss, especially when compared to competitors. The cabin remains spacious, with excellent headroom and legroom for the first two rows​.

The third row is somewhat cramped and lacks USB ports, though the Legender variant addresses this with better seat recline and extra charging options. The boot space is ample when the third row is folded down, offering plenty of room for luggage​.

The Toyota Fortuner is priced higher than its rivals, starting at ₹29.98 lakh for the petrol variants and going up to ₹37.58 lakh for the top-spec Legender variant. While it’s the most expensive diesel SUV in its segment, the Fortuner’s road presence, reliability, and off-road capabilities make it worth the investment for buyers seeking a rugged yet premium SUV​

Toyota has a strong reputation for its after-sales service and reliability, ensuring peace of mind for Fortuner owners. The Fortuner is priced between ₹29.98 lakh and ₹37.58 lakh, making it more expensive than competitors like the MG Gloster and Ford Endeavour. However, its resale value and long-term reliability continue to attract buyers​.

The Toyota Fortuner competes with the Ford Endeavour, MG Gloster, and Mahindra Alturas G4. While the Gloster and Endeavour offer more tech features and luxury, the Fortuner stands out for its reliability, off-road prowess, and brand value. Its premium pricing reflects its segment-leading presence, but some may feel that the competitors offer more features for a lower price​.

The Toyota Fortuner remains a dominant force in the premium SUV segment, thanks to its powerful diesel engine, off-road capability, and premium design. While it’s priced higher than its competitors, the Fortuner’s blend of reliability, road presence, and feature set makes it a compelling option for those seeking a tough, versatile SUV that can handle both city streets and challenging terrains