Toyota will unveil the much-awaited 2021MY Fortuner facelift on June 4 in Thailand
Japanese automaker Toyota has a wide range of SUVs and crossovers in its global portfolio. In Asian markets, the Toyota Fortuner is perhaps the most sought-after SUV from the brand considering its pricing and success on the market. Of course, the top-of-the-line Land Cruiser is the most popular Toyota SUV if we consider the entire world.
Also known as the Hilux SW4, the Toyota Fortuner is currently in its second generation which has been on sale in India since 2016 (first-gen debuted in 2009). Though the mid-size SUV (“premium 7-seater SUV” in Indian terms) has been updated to BS6 specifications in both petrol and diesel formats, age has started to take its toll. Compared to its closest rivals (Ford Endeavour and Mahindra Alturas G4), the Fortuner is quite outdated in many respects. Sales figures do not tell such a story though.
The 7-seater has actually got a strong fan base in India as well as abroad who are eagerly waiting for the 2021MY facelift, set to debut in Thailand on June 4. Considering the vehicle’s importance on the Indian market, Toyota Kirloskar Motor would most likely bring it within a few months’ time from its Thai-intro.
This is the first major update to the second-gen Toyota Fortuner even though it was introduced in multiple special editions (mostly sticker jobs or extra accessories) over the years. Now, details of the Fortuner facelift’s power plant has been revealed.
For the 2021 model year, Toyota has updated the familiar 2.8-litre iGD four-cylinder diesel motor to churn out 201bhp and a strong 500Nm of torque. In comparison, the current version makes around 175bhp @ 3,400rpm and 420Nm (6-speed manual) or 450Nm (6-speed automatic) @ 1,400-2,600rpm. In other words, the facelift packs an extra 26bhp and 50Nm. For the Thai market, it will most likely come with just the 6-speed TC automatic transmission that powers either the rear axle or all four wheels.
As expected, there will be significant improvements in terms of exterior styling, interior materials, features and safety. Notable additions should include a larger touchscreen infotainment system, multi-zone climate control, sunroof, surround-view parking camera, powered tailgate, wireless charging and advanced driver assists.
We have already shared a few spy shots of the upcoming Toyota Fortuner facelift. Despite being in low quality, the pictures give a brief understanding of the SUV’s cosmetic enhancements. Over the months, convincing renders based on these spy shots were showcased on the internet.
