In 2005, Toyota initiated a global new manufacturing strategy that saw the introduction of a new series of models called the 'Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles' (IMV). The project was a massive undertaking as it would move virtually all activities for the models outside Japan. The primary IMV model was the Hilux which would be produced in the largest numbers. The other two models were the Fortuner SUV and Innova MPV, both of which were engineered to suit the needs and cost bases of the ASEAN and emerging markets.
Platform sharing was major part of the IMV project as this could cut costs significantly. In earlier years, each model would have its own platform, adding unnecessary cost. With the IMV models, many areas could be shared but at the same time, some customization was also allowed to provide the desired characteristics.
But in a competitive environment, consumers want to see something new so periodic updates and upgrades are necessary to keep the model fresh. The new Hilux has already been launched and now comes the upgraded Fortuner which is said to have been improved with the product concept of 'Advanced & Prestige'.
As in such upgrades, the aim is not just to freshen the looks but also try to make the model better value for money. This means adding features and making minor changes which are often prompted by customer feedback.
Basically, there are two variants of the Fortuner, the 2.7V which has a 2.7-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine and the 2.5G which has a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. All have 4-speed automatic transmissions and each has two versions -- a standard version and a TRD Sportivo version. Prices range from RM167,990 to RM182,488.
A new colour -- Dark Steel Mica -- is now included in the choices of body colours which include Silver Metallic, Medium Silver Metallic and Solid White. The previously available Coal Black is no longer available.
The new Fortuner has been given a fresh new look that enhances its appearance which now has a more distinctive image. The new reverse-trapezoid chrome grille and headlamp designs emphasize the width of the vehicle and give it an appearance that is rather like the other large SUV and MPV Toyota models.
Viewed from the side, the new Fortuner looks like it has visual more forward movement due to subtle changes in the character lines on the overfenders around the wheel arches. Other new features include revised body-coloured wing mirrors with embedded signal lights and restyled rear combination lighting units with new graphics.
The TRD Sportivo version consists of both front and rear bumper spoiler and TRD Sportivo stripes that are specially designed, tested and approved by Toyota. The front and rear bumper spoilers are made of PP (polypropylene) which is a strong and hard plastic material. TRD -- which stands for Toyota Racing Development - is a unit in the Toyota Group involved in motorsports and high-performance products.
Those who know the Fortuner from before will notice something different when they step into the cabin of the new one. It looks darker and this is because of a change in the colour scheme. A dark colour makes more sense since a SUV may be used off-road and more dirt is likely to get into the cabin.
The central area of the dashboard has been restyled with a horizontally-based design to give a wider feel to the cabin. For the Fortuner 2.7V grade, black woodgrain/chrome plating while the Fortuner 2.5G has silver finishing. The instrument panel's sporty 3-meter design has also undergone some changes and no longer has cylindrical walls separating each meter. The Optitron meters are highly legible and at night, there's turquoise blue illumination.
New features include the redesigned steering wheel which has a 4-spoke design. The Fortuner 2.7V has audio controls on the upper left spoke with black woodgrain trim for the upper quadrant of the rim. The shift lever knob on the Fortuner 2.7V also gets a black woodgrain finish to match the dashboard, steering wheel and door trim as well as leather trim for the three rows of seats. For the Fortuner 2.5G, a gear position indicator is now added to the meter to keep the driver informed.
As with most SUVs of this size, there are three rows of seats and a variety of layouts can be created by folding the second and third rows. When all three rows are available, there's comfortable seating for up to seven adults. For the Fortuner 2.7V, there's a 6-way power-adjustable driver?s seat.
