Complementing the presence of the RAV4, Prado, Land Cruiser 200 Series and the FJ Cruiser, Toyota last week took the wraps off another metal behemoth, the second generation Fortuner.
First introduced in 2005, the all-new Fortuner is expected to lock horns with the Mitsubishi Montero, Ford Everest, Hyundai Sta Fe, Chevrolet Colorado and the Isuzu MU-X in the highly competitive SUV market. “Our concept was to build a true SUV that has style and confidence. The all-new Fortuner is the outcome of our continuous efforts to redefine toughness,” says Hiroki Nakajima, executive chief engineer of the all-new Fortuner.
Held at the Marriot Hotel in Pasay City, the launch was spearheaded by Toyota Motors Philippines Executives led by its newly minted President Satoru Suzuki. “It is the return of the icon, our brand’s best seller and as you can see, this latest variant looks more sophisticated and dynamic,” adds Suzuki. The Fortuner carved its niche by way of its quality, durability, reliability and a tough suspension system that can take on any kind of terrain. The iconic name originates from the word “fortunate,” specifically chosen to symbolize a new type of model designed for customers who long to own a prestigious SUV. Moreover, the name also evokes a strong and active persona. For this second generation SUV, Toyota focuses in creating a more distinctive, sleek and powerful design while improving its performance. Under the hood of this Fortuner is a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that produces 130kW of power and 450Nm of torque and paired to a six-speed transmission. This allows the all-new Fortuner to balance powerful performance with fuel efficiency.
The G grade comes in sporty 17 inch alloy wheels while the V grade flashes a stylish set of 18 inch alloy wheels. As you step inside the vehicle, anyone would be in awe with a bolder and more elegant interior. Its V grade comes in hues of dark brown, black and wood trim details while the G grade boasts colors of chamois, black and dark wood trim details. This 2016 version is bolder, has a longer and wider stance which is an improvement of the previous generation.
With a body on frame design that can accommodate seven individuals and powerful diesel engine and a nameplate that spells rock solid reliability and toughness, Toyota’s counterparts have their work cut out for them. “The arrival of the new Fortuner has been the subject of anticipation and speculation in the past few months. We are confident that this variant will carve inroads and will far exceed the achievement of the previous generation,” said Ariel Arias, SVP for marketing. The All-new Fortuner is offered in five variants with a starting price of P1,386,000.
