Toyota launches new Fortuner SUV with hybrid tech
Toyota has launched a mild-hybrid variant of its popular SUV, the Fortuner, in South Africa. Named the Fortuner MHEV, this new model features mild-hybrid technology similar to that found in the Hilux MHEV introduced last year. Following its debut in South Africa, Toyota plans to introduce this SUV to other markets in the coming months. The design of the Fortuner MHEV closely resembles that of the Indian version, known as the Fortuner Legender.
Fortuner MHEV: Design and performance
The Fortuner MHEV is equipped with a 2.8-liter diesel engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This hybrid system provides an additional 16hp and 42Nm of torque, resulting in a total output of 201hp/500Nm. Toyota claims that the new model is 5% more fuel-efficient than the standard Fortuner 2.8-liter diesel model. The vehicle comes with a standard six-speed automatic transmission and offers both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options.
Enhanced features and future plans for Indian market
The Fortuner MHEV boasts enhanced throttle response and smoother engine restarts due to its idle start-stop function. It also comes with Toyota's Safety Sense ADAS suite and a 360-degree camera. Minor interior aesthetic modifications have been made as well. As for its launch in India, it remains unclear when or if Toyota will introduce this diesel mild-hybrid technology to the market, which currently offers petrol, petrol-hybrid, petrol-CNG, and diesel models.
