Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
THE all-new Toyota Fortuner has finally arrived, as Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently unveiled the second generation of its best-selling mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) during the media thanksgiving party at the Marriot Grand Ballroom in Pasay City. Since its introduction in Thailand mid last year, anticipation rose as to when it will land in the Philippines.
Not until January 14 when members of the motoring media were fortunate enough to have an exclusive up close and personal encounter with the all-new Fortuner.
What is evident from this new-generation Fortuner is the significant evolution from its predecessor that reigned for a decade as one of the sought-after mid-size SUVs in the country. “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,” Executive Chief Engineer (for the all-new Fortuner), Hiroki Nakajima said.
While it shares the same platform with the Hilux, the all-new Fortuner now boasts a different design for that character distinction. The fascia radiates from the signature keen-look appearance with sleek-looking front grill and slender headlamps extending to the side fenders. With the enhanced curves and profiles, the all-new Fortuner looks smarter and bolder in every angle. Exterior elements limited to the V editions are the bi-beam LED with auto leveling, auto on/off, auto-cut and auto follow-me-home system; daylight running lights; chrome door outside handles and belt moldings; and color-keyed side mirrors with outside signal and puddle lamps. Likewise, the 18-inch multispoke alloy wheels with 265/60 R18 tires is solely for the V models.
The all-new Fortuner’s cabin is now more elegant with embellishments accentuating every detail from the modern dashboard layout to the fresh side trim. Combinations of dark brown, black and wood finish is available for the V grade, while the G option is decorated with colors of chamois, black and dark wood varnish. Capacitive touchscreen audio equipped with navigation system and a Multi-Information Display in the instrumentation panel are installed across the board.
There are three engine options fitted for every specific variant. The top-end 4×4 V Dsl A/T is endowed with the new GD series 2.8 liter, four-cylinder and front-mount intercooled turbo diesel with Variable Nozzle Turbo (VNT) delivering 174 hp at 3,400 rpm and a 450 Nm of torque between 1,600-2,400 rpm. On the other hand, propelling the 4×2 V and G variations is the smaller GD 2.4 liter producing 147 hp and 400 Nm of torque in the same rpm range, respectively. As for the lone 4×2 G A/T petrol option, the same 2.7-liter, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated 2TR-FE motor but upgraded with dual-VVTi mechanism was commissioned. Only the 4×2 G Dsl powertrain is mated with the six-speed manual gearbox while all the others are coupled with the six-speed automatic transmission with sequential control.
Safety features such as anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, child protection lock and Isofix are all standard. The extensive multiple SRS air bags for front, driver knee, side and curtain shield are exclusive for the top-of-line 4×4 edition. The all-new Fortuner is available in White Pearl (plus P15,000 premium), Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Gray Metallic, Super White with new colors Phantom Brown and Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic.
Prices per particular variant are 2.8 4×4 V Diesel A/T White Pearl (P2.141 million); 2.8 4×4 V Diesel A/T (P2.126 million); 2.4 4×2 V Diesel A/T White Pearl (P1.751 million); 2.4 4×2 V Diesel A/T (P1.736 million); 2.4 4X2 G Diesel A/T (P1.476 million); 2.7 4×2 G Gas A/T (P1.392 million); and 2.4 4×2 G Diesel M/T (P1.386 million).
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino