FIRST DRIVE New Fortuner Auto review, test drive


Toyota fortuner auto
Come January, Toyota will widen the Fortuner line-up with the introduction of a pair of new two-wheel drive variants. We have just driven the automatic-transmission variant and can tell you there is much to get excited about. 
But before we get into how the SUV drives, lets take a look at what else is new. For starters, frontal styling gets a major revamp. The larger grille, angular headlights and restyled front bumper do their bit to make the Fortuner look even more Land Cruiser-like than before.  There is also a wider intake for the intercooler on the bonnet and new design for the alloy wheels. At the rear, you can identify the new Fortuner by its clear-lens tail lamps.
Toyota fortuner auto
Inside the cabin, the redesigned centre console now features a six-inch touch-screen (shared with the Corolla and new Innova) which controls and displays the audio system, new DVD player and reverse camera. The steering wheel is also new and now comes with controls for the new Bluetooth telephony function.
The Fortuner�s already comfy front seats now get a six-way power adjust that makes it really easy to find the perfect driving position.  Drivers will also notice the revised �Optitron� dials that remain easy to read as before.
Toyota fortuner auto
Detailed inspection over, time to get moving. Slot the gear lever in D, depress the accelerator and it doesn�t take much time to realise the four-speed torque-converter gearbox complements its torquey 3.0-litre D4-D engine quite well.
Gearshifts are smooth and the ratios are well suited to typical city driving. The �box is also quite responsive for the most part; yes, there is a mild hesitation to downshift but that is only apparent when you need instant power.
Toyota fortuner auto
Driving on tarmac there is little to differentiate the two-wheel-drive Fortuner from its four-wheel-driven counterpart. If anything, the steering feels marginally lighter now. The smooth 168bhp engine is as tractable as before and the seamless build of power makes the Fortuner effortless to drive.
Toyota fortuner auto
As a product, it makes immense sense for city-based buyers to whom SUVs are more a status symbol than a tool for going off-road. While prices are yet to be announced, the Fortuner 2WD automatic will be priced lower than the 4WD model on sale today. Be prepared to see a lot more Fortuners on the road. 

Fact File

Price Range (in lakhs)*
Ex-showroom priceRs 20 lakh (est. ex-showroom, Delhi)
Engine
FuelDiesel
InstallationFront, longitudinal
Type4 cyls in-line, 2982cc, common-rail, direct injection, turbo-diesel
Bore/stroke96.0/ 103.0
Power168bhp at 3600rpm
Torque35kgm at 1400-3400rpm
Transmission
TypeAutomatic
Gearbox4-speed
Dimensions
Length4705mm
Width1840mm
Height1850mm
Wheel base2750mm
Ground clearance220mm
Chassis & Body
ConstructionBody on ladder frame, five-door SUV
Weight1885kg
WheelsAlloy
Tyres265/65 R17
SpareFull size
Suspension
FrontIndependent, double-wishbone, coil-springs
RearNon-independent
Brakes
FrontVentilated discs
RearDrums
Anti-lockYes

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