Toyota came up with the idea of making a robust SUV based on the Hilux pickup back in 1998. Its venture at the time was called the Hilux Sport Rider and was primarily intended for Asian markets. The Fortuner designation appeared on the off-road model for the first time in 2005, along with the seventh generation of the base pickup. Now the eighth Hilux is heading to the market, opening up space for a new generation of practical and capable SUVs.
Unlike the vast majority of models of the same category sold in Europe, the Fortuner has an advantage from the start in the form of a classic frame construction . The chassis itself was developed mainly with regard to the demands of Australian roads, the double wishbones at the front are complemented by a five-link suspension at the rear, and there are also specially adjusted stabilizers on both axles to prevent overturning. Under the hood of the 4,795 mm long , 1,855 mm wide and 1,835 mm high model is a 2.8-liter turbodiesel with an output of 177 hp at 3,400 rpm. Toyota offers a choice between a six-speed manual with a torque of 420 Nm between 1400-2600 rpm and a six-speed automatic with a torque of 450 Nm between 1600-2400 rpm. If you hitch a braked trailer behind the car, it can weigh 2.8 tons with the automatic and even 3 tons with the manual. Under normal conditions, the SUV is rear-wheel drive, but the rotary switch in the cabin can be used to permanently engage all-wheel drive . The good off-road characteristics are further aided by a ground clearance of 225 mm, a rear lockable differential or switchable electronic assistants.
The body design is practically completely different from the Hilux. In the front part, there are two distinctive chrome strips , separating the lights from the radiator grille, in the lower part, in the higher versions, the chrome frame around the fog lights is visible. The main lights are basically still halogen, but higher trim levels will offer not only daytime running LEDs, but also lighting with Bi-LED technology . The rear reflectors are also made of diodes. The cabin with a wheelbase of 2745 mm can accommodate seven passengers in a 2 + 3 + 2 combination, but its affinity with the new generation of pickup trucks is more noticeable. The dashboard, including the seven-inch touchscreen of the multimedia system, for example, is exactly the same. In addition to infotainment, the basic equipment will also include seven airbags, air conditioning with front and rear vents, a reversing camera, a hill start assistant or 17-inch alloy wheels.
The new generation Toyota Fortuner will be the first to arrive in Australia at the end of October . Other countries will gradually follow, mainly in Asia and the Middle East.
Source: Toyota
