Toyota launches face-lifted Fortuner

Posted at October 25th, 2008 under Thailand, Toyota | 4 Comments »

Toyota has launched a face-lifted version of its Fortuner in Thailand. Previously the car had an all business dull look that belied what the car was capable of. Now the small facelift has been very successful in bringing the character of the car to the fore. The car’s grills are altered to provide a starring glance upfront with the headlights merging into the grill. The headlights feature a projector lens and the tail lamp use clear lens. Otherwise the package is unadulterated.

The car will run on a 4 litre diesel, the same as in the Innova, which sadly is the only available option. The engine produces 163 bhp and 35 Kgm torque. The car comes in both 2 wheel and 4 wheel drive, mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Coil spring suspensions are used in all 4 wheels promising a comfortable driving in the worst possible road conditions, where one is likely to take the behemoth.

The 7-seater is packs as much technology as it carries luggage. Climate control, separate AC vents for the 3 rows and an audio system with steering mounted control are available as options. The interiors are a pleasant place to be, and you forget that you are driving a 2 tonne (1.8 to be accurate) SUV down a slushy terrain. The car is at home at business meetings as well as endurance tests and thus is a potential challenger to cars across a wide class. The car is estimated to be priced around 18 lakhs, and will be manufactured from the Bhidadi plant from CKU (completely-knocked down-units). It is expected on Indian roads by the end of next year.