The Toyota Fortuner is one of the most popular mid-sized Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) in Kenya. The Toyota Fortuner received a major facelift back in 2011. The current model boasts major upgrades visible on the upgraded Toyota Hilux, with which the Fortuner shares a design platform. These design changes give the new Toyota Fortuner a bolder, more aggressive presence on the road.
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| Toyota Fortuner |
Design
The styling changes are most visible at the front of the SUV. The striking new grille has a trapezoidal shape with bold horizontal slats and prominent chrome detailing. The grille is flanked by new clear headlight clusters. The headlamps protrude slightly outward to provide a starting point for the vehicle’s strong shoulder line.  |
| Redesigned front |
The front bumper is completely new and features a darkened centre section and new fog light designs. Viewed in profile the Toyota Fortuner now features new wings with rear flowing character lines. Tied to the side profile design changes is the inclusion of 17-inch alloy wheels that sits well with big fenders and large tyres to enhance the muscularity of the new Toyota Fortuner.  |
| Fortuner's profile |
The new Toyota Fortuner features the integration of the side indicators into the side mirrors, which are now colour coded on all models. The major design changes are carried to the rear, where the rear light clusters feature individually styled rear light units behind clear glass. Linking the two rear lights is a chromed number plate garnish with the new Toyota Fortuner name moulded into the unit. Rounding off the design changes is a new square rear bumper, which is designed to offer a smoother transition between the luggage door and the bumper. A roof mounted spoiler with in-built LED stop lamp is now fitted to all models.
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| Practical boot |
Performance
Behind the Toyota Fortuner’s new nose is a 3.0 D-4D turbo diesel power unit. This engine delivers 120 kW (160hp) at 3400 rpm and 343 Nm of torque between 1400-3200 rpm. The Toyota Fortuner is available with the choice of a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. The 3.0 D-4D power plant is equipped with a powerful diesel cooling system that is located underneath the car and a new high efficiency diesel filter.  |
| Cockpit |
All versions of the new Toyota Fortuner are equipped with high mounted double wishbone front suspension and a four link independent rear suspension with a lateral control rod at the rear. All models further feature protection under the engine and fuel tank. The new Toyota Fortuner is permanently in four wheel drive mode and the driver can use the transfer case to switch between 4WD High and 4WD Low.  |
| Spacious and practical interior |
Luxurious interior
A luxurious interior awaits you as you open the Toyota Fortuner’s large doors. The first striking feature that will catch one’s eye is the newly designed instrument cluster which now features a single unit with chrome detailing and a more squared off design. The centre console and rows of buttons on the lower section and to the right of the driver have also been redesigned.  |
| Based on the Toyota Hilux |
The driver grips a new steering wheel with silver accents, high volume foam padding, and controls for the audio and multi-information display system. The Toyota Fortuner is equipped with seven seats, of which the 2nd row of seats can split in a 60/40 configuration and unclip to tumble forward. The 3rd row of seats can slide, split in 50/50 configuration and fold up to the sides, in a space-up configuration, to further increase the load area.  |
| Stylish rear |
Verdict
The new Toyota Fortuner remains one of the must have SUVs in Kenya. Underneath its skin are elements adopted from the Toyota Hilux, a legend in Kenya’s automobile scene. Hence, the Toyota Fortuner is as rugged, capable, and dependable both in and out of the urban jungle. The seven seats and luxury ornaments make the interior a joy to be in.
