Toyota Kirloskar Motor is all set to launch the facelifted Fortuner SUV on January 6th, 2021. It was revealed earlier this year in Thailand. And now, with the launch just days away, we already know about some of its notable changes & other details. So let’s take a look at all the important variations that are likely to be seen on the new 2021 Toyota Fortuner Facelift: –
1. Model Line-up
Like the Thai-spec version, the upgraded Fortuner is likely to come in both standard/base and Legender premium version. Both the models have already been spotted on the Indian roads.
2. Exterior Design
The facelifted Fortuner SUV will get subtle design changes, especially at the front end. Both these models will get a distinct front design with new LED headlamps, redesigned bumpers, and new alloy wheels. The base or standard model will feature a similar grille frame as the existing model but with a different pattern. The bumper will be more aggressive than the existing model, incorporating larger air vents, turn indicators, and revised fog lamps.
Also Read: Toyota Fortuner Facelift Bookings Started Unofficially, Launch Expected In Early 2021
The new & premium Legender model, on the other hand, looks sportier than the base trim. It will get a Lexus-like front facia, featuring a tiny grille, sleeker bi-LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, and a large air dam. It could also get bigger 20-inch alloys wheels, whereas the base/standard trim is expected to sport 18-inch alloys.
On the rear, both models will feature a refreshed arrangement for the LED elements and distinct bumper design.
3. Interior Design
Inside, the changes will be more subtle. The 2021 Fortuner will carry forward the same interior styling & layout as the current model. However, the central console will now house a new & larger touchscreen infotainment system (9-inch unit for the Legender & 8-inch unit for the standard model) with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Besides this, Toyota could also offer new leather upholstery.
4. New Features
Apart from the new infotainment unit, the facelifted Fortuner is likely to get Toyota's T-Connect connected car technology, wireless charging pad, ambient lighting, JBL sound system, lightly updated instrument cluster, powered tailgate with sweep-to-open function, and a 360-degree parking camera, just like its Thai-spec version.
Internationally, the new Fortuner also gets level-1 autonomous driver assist techs such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, etc. However, whether these features will make their way to the Indian-spec model, is not clear at this moment.
Also Read: Toyota Fortuner Facelift Gets 5-Star Rating In ASEAN NCAP Crash Test, But There's a Catch!
5. Engine
As far as the powertrain is concerned, the Fortuner facelift is expected to be powered by the existing 2.8-litre turbo-diesel and 2.7-litre petrol engine. However, the diesel motor 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 likely to retain the same power figures as the ongoing model (166PS/245Nm).
6. Gearbox & Drivetrain Options
Both these engines are expected to carry forward their existing transmission options, which include a manual gearbox (5-speed with petrol, 6-speed with diesel) and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Like the current model, the petrol engine is expected to be offered only with 2-wheel drivetrain (2WD), while the diesel variant will also get the 4WD option.
7. Expected Pricing
Except 2021 Toyota Fortuner to carry a premium over the current model, which retails between Rs 28.66 lakh and Rs 34.43 lakh (ex-showroom).
8. Rivals
In the full-size SUV segment, the updated Toyota Fortuner will continue to locks horns with Mahindra Alturas G4, MG Gloster, Ford Endeavour, and the upcoming Isuzu MU-X.
