After introducing the Innova Crysta facelift last month, Toyota is now preparing to launch the facelift version of its full-size Fortuner SUV on 6th January 2021. And like Thailand, the Indian-spec facelifted Fortuner is also expected to be available in two trims: Standard and Legender, because its premium Legender variant has been spotted recently during a TVC shoot in Bangalore.
Compared to the current model, the new Fortuner Legender features Lexus-cars like design elements. Upfront, it sports a smaller blacked-out mesh grille, flanked by sleek bi-LED projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), giving it a premium look. Its bumper design looks quite sporty & somewhat similar to the other global Toyota models. It houses a large air dam and a silver skid plate.
The side & rear profile of the car seems largely unchanged except for the dual-tone 20-inch alloy wheels, redesigned rear bumper, and an updated layout for the LED elements in the taillamp.
Also Read: Toyota Fortuner Facelift Gets 5-Star Rating In ASEAN NCAP Crash Test, But There's a Catch!
Inside the cabin, the brand is likely to replace its older 8-inch infotainment touchscreen system with a new & bigger 9-inch unit. It could also get new leather upholstery. The notable expected features include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity, wireless mobile charger, 360-degree camera, electric tailgate with the sweep-to-open feature, and level-1 autonomous driver assist techs such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, etc.
To know about the base/standard model of the 2021 Toyota Fortuner facelift, click here.
2021 Toyota Fortuner Facelift: Engine
The 2021 Toyota Fortuner facelift is likely to be offered with the same set of engines as the ongoing model that includes 2.7-litre petrol and a 2.8-litre diesel engine. However, the diesel mill could get the uprated tuning (204PS/500Nm), as seen on the Thai-spec model. Compared to the current model, these figures are 27PS/80Nm higher. The petrol engine, on the other hand, is expected to retain the same power figures: 166PS/245Nm.
As far as the transmission is concerned, both these motors are likely to come with a manual gearbox (5-speed with petrol, 6-speed with diesel) and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox as the existing model. However, the petrol engine is expected to be offered only with 2-wheel drivetrain (2WD), while the diesel variant will also get the 4WD option.
Expected Pricing
In terms of pricing, except facelifted Toyota Fortuner to command a premium over the current model, which retails between Rs 28.66 lakh and Rs 34.43 lakh (ex-showroom). Selected Toyota dealerships have already started accepting unofficial bookings for a token amount of Rs 50,000. Once launched, it will continue to rival the massive Ford Endeavour, Mahindra Alturas G4, MG Gloster, and the upcoming Isuzu MU-X.
