[ad_1]
• Toyota launched its updated Fortuner in South Africa in early November 2020.
• The new model features Toyota’s updated 150 kW 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine.
• The new Fortuner features full updates.
• For more motorsports stories, visit www.Wheels24.co.za
For the past 14 years, the Toyota Fortuner has been dominating as the best-selling SUV in South Africa. By ranking between the smallest Rav4 and the largest Prado in Toyota’s SUV hierarchy, the Fortuner found favor with thousands of owners and those seeking the best of both worlds.
Believe it or not, though, the Fortuner is only in its second generation, but Toyota had planned to give the SUV a much-needed facelift in 2020. Covid-19 derailed the planned launch a bit, but the automaker still could. achieve it. put their updated Fortuner on the South African market free of charge.
After a few days at the wheel of the new model, it is not difficult to see why this new model will not follow in the footsteps of its predecessor. Perhaps you even carve out a more significant slice of the cake you already enjoy.
The 2021 Fortuner sees a number of changes that have occurred, all in terms of exterior styling, interior comfort, and mechanical improvements. The most striking differences can be seen at the front of the SUV, with a revised grille and a new headlamp design.
Our steed was the new top model in the Fortuner line, the 2.8 GD-6 4×4 VX. There is a chrome strip just below the side windows, which runs throughout the vehicle. More chrome trim is found on the grille, door handles and the tailgate. The exterior appearance is completed by a set of 18-inch off-road tires.
READ: Toyota’s popular Fortuner gets a facelift, an added grunt, and a new flagship model
Toyota says that with the new updated model, they listened to customer requests and updated the cabin based on these wishes. The interior is lined in black and the seats are now also covered in black leather with silver stitching. Looking over the center console and information display in front of the driver, it is clear that Toyota wanted the cabin to be as ergonomically as possible. From a driver’s point of view, they’ve done just that and navigating the dials and menus is an easy task.
The entire Fortuner line, including the VX models, now features a new eight-inch infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also has satellite navigation, but the 2.8 GD-6 models have the option of having the system read the navigation commands aloud. The two seats in the cargo area, when not in use, are still secured to the side of the trunk or folded to the floor.
Toyota Fortuner 2021 (MotorPress)
More power, improved dynamics
The biggest novelty compared to the new Fortuner is the increased power in the 2.8-liter turbodiesel model. This engine is the same unit that is used in the Hilux and sees an increase in power and torque to 150 kW and 500 Nm. That’s a 20kW / 50Nm increase over the previous model. Except for the basic 2.4 GD-6 Raised Body (RB) Fortuner model, all models are equipped with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
In the VX, drivers have paddles behind the wheel to change gears if they wish. During our period with the SUV, we found that the gearbox ignored manual inputs, even with the gear stick and drive mode selector set to ‘Sport’. Left to its own devices, the gearbox will slip through its gears and engage the next gear in time.
Toyota said that while the Fortuner’s suspension has been adjusted slightly, it did not receive as significant an overhaul as the Hilux (on which it is based). However, the small updates Toyota made to the SUV gave it far better road dynamics than the model it replaces. Even on gravel, the Fortuner will comfortably run at 120 or 130 km / h in 4×2 mode, without feeling like it’s out of depth on loose stone surfaces.
Three driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, each highlight a different character in the Fortuner, but all complement the revisions made to the SUV’s powertrain and traction system.
Toyota Fortuner 2021 (MotorPress)
In summary
After a few days with the Fortuner (as part of their South African launch program), it was refreshing to re-introduce South Africa’s favorite SUV. The vehicle has come a long way since 2006 and Toyota has managed to keep it current and relevant with every update and upgrade. We don’t think there’s anything stopping Toyota from getting even more success with its updated Fortuner.
The new SUV addressed several issues a bit poorly on the previous model, and this should appease many customers looking to swap out their Fortuners for a new one.
Price: Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 VX 6AT – R790 500
Likes and dislikes
We like: Greater power and improved dynamics | Exterior design | Spacious cabin
We do not like it: Heavy steering at low speed | Gearbox not reacting to manual inputs | Most rear seats do not fold into the trunk floor
