Toyota is preparing to launch the facelift version of Innova Crysta and Fortuner in the Indian market. Earlier we reported about the bookings of Innova Crysta and its expected launch date, now selected Toyota dealers have also started accepting informal bookings of facelifted Fortuner for a token amount of Rs 50,000.
Like the Thailand-spec model, the Indian version of facelifted Fortuner will also receive some subtle design changes on the exterior that mainly includes a larger mesh pattern grille, redesigned muscular bumpers, updated LED headlamp design with integrated LED daytime running lamps, newly designed alloy wheels, and sleek LED taillamps at the back.
In Thailand, Toyota has also introduced a special Legender variant that sports a Lexus-like front fascia, bigger 20.0-inch alloy wheels, dual-tone exterior finishing, and glossy black inserts on both bumpers & boot lid for an added premium appearance.
We believe, Toyota could launch both the standard and sportier Legender trims in the Indian market.
Also Read: Toyota Fortuner Facelift Gets 5-Star Rating In ASEAN NCAP Crash Test, But There's a Catch!
Inside the cabin, the Thai-spec Fortuner facelift features a dark theme, unlike the outgoing brighter dual-tone colour scheme. The dash layout remains largely the same and the only major noticeable change is a bigger 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto smartphone connectivity and refreshed instrumentation cluster (redesigned dials). Apart from these, the updated Fortuner will continue to get equipment like auto climate control, cruise control, rear AC vents, drive modes, auto-dimming IRVM, steering mounted controls, powered driver's seat, and keyless entry with push-button start, etc.
On the other hand, the sportier-looking Legender variant also receives convenient features like a 360-degree camera, wireless charger, a power tailgate with the sweep-to-open feature and practical 8-way adjustable driver and co-driver’s seat.
In India, the 2020 Toyota Fortuner is likely to be offered with the same set of engines as the ongoing model that includes 2.7-litre petrol (166PS/245Nm) and 2.8-litre diesel (177PS/up to 450Nm) engine. Both these motors can be had with either a manual gearbox (5-speed with petrol, 6-speed with diesel) or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. However, the petrol engine is expected to be offered only with 2-wheel drivetrain (2WD), while the diesel variant will get the 4WD as the current model.
Also Read: 2020 Toyota Fortuner Facelift Spied For The First Time
Currently, the Toyota Fortuner retails at a price range of Rs 28.66 lakh – 34.43 lakh. As a justification for all the updates, the facelifted Fortuner will surely command a premium about Rs 1 lakh over the ongoing model. Once launched, it will continue to rival the massive Ford Endeavour, Mahindra Alturas G4, MG Gloster, and the upcoming Isuzu MU-X.