Toyota has just stuck to the tried and tested formula, big on presence, space and power it struck all the right chords with the SUV buying public.
Toyota Fortuner
Just hearing about the waiting period for the Toyota Fortuner is enough to assess the kind of success it has garnered. The front end of the Fortuner is more Yankee-Japanese handsome than Euro-chic. The new-age twin headlamps housed in a rectangular pod on either side of the thin twin slat grille work well with the large wrap around bumper into which are housed the auxiliary lights and that well crafted sump shield skid plate on the lower lip of the bumper (so prevalent in many off-roaders as well as soft roaders these days) makes its appearance to pleasing effect on the Fortuner.
On the insides the Fortuner is a genuine 7-seater, with reasonable space even in the third row. Although similar to the insides of the Innova, quality is top notch and typical Toyota. Passenger comfort is excellent as well and the SUV’s well-mannered ride quality only supplements this fact. The steering though is a tad too light and at higher speeds requires constant correction. Air conditioning is very competent and even the most remotely seated passengers are far from feeling the weather at any point of the drive. Under the hood, the Fortuner gets a 3.0-litre D-4D unit which makes a 171 PS and 343 Nm of torque. This not only makes the Fortuner a comfortable tool on the highway but thanks to the full time all wheel drive, also gives it more than enough grunt to handle situations off the road.
The Fortuner comes with very high levels of safety as well. Apart from airbags for the driver and passengers, driving aids like ABS and EBD add to safety factor.Great diesel engine, genuine and well-engineered 4x4 capabilities, contemporary interiors and huge practicality, no wonder Toyota is raking in the fortunes.
Quick Facts:
Engine: 3 litre, D-4D, Inline 4
Power: 171PS@ 3600rpm
Torque: 343Nm @ 1400rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 2750 mm
LxWxH: 4695 x 1840 x 1850 mm
Weight: 1955 kg
Performance
0-100 km/h: 16.02 sec
Top speed: 171.8 km/h
Fuel efficiency (overall): 7.9 kmpl
Variants:
Toyota Fortuner 3.0 MT: ` 19.49 lakh
Cheers:
1. Brilliant engine offers adequate cruising ability and more than enough grunt for off-road use
2. Brilliantly packaged interiors offers space right till the last row
Sneers:
1. Steering feels extremely light at higher speeds and requires constant correction
2. Braking can be a lot better
Honourable Mentions
Nissan X-Trail
The Nissan X-Trail has come across as one of the most dependable SUV’s in the market. A refined diesel engine, rugged mechanicals and more than decent off-road capabilities make it a pretty good buy.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi has always been synonymous with SUV’s. Joining the legendary Pajero and the Montero is the Outlander. With a brilliant 2.4 litre petrol mill mated to CVT transmission, the Outlander makes for a very capable soft roader. The new EVO front adds even further to its appeal.
Other Rivals
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
Maruti Suzuki’s Grand Vitara has been around for quite some time and is possibly the best off road and the most value for money.
Honda CR-V
One of the first soft roaders to hit the Indian market, the CR-V has also been the most popular one.
Chevrolet Captiva
This big bow-tie wonder has done pretty well for itself. Good looks, a grunty oilburner and lots of space being the highpoints
Ford Endeavour
If its just presence you are looking at, look no further than the Ford Endeavour. With its massive size and intimidating demeanour, this Ford sure looks the part.
Mitsubishi Pajero
The grand daddy of all SUV’s, the Pajero has been around for eons and is still a popular choice thanks to its cult status.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a good car but unfortunately not very popular. Its replacement should change that though.
