2016 Toyota Fortuner launched in Malaysia - two variants, 2.4L diesel and 2.7L petrol, RM187-200k

The launch of the eighth-generation Toyota Hilux today also saw the official introduction of the new Toyota Fortuner. The second-generation Hilux-based SUV, which makes its local debut 10 months after its unveiling in Thailand, has been totally redesigned and features a sleek new exterior, a more premium-looking interior and updated engines.

As reported yesterday, two variants of the seven-seater will be available locally, and these are a 2.7 SRZ AT 4×4 petrol and 2.4 VRZ AT 4×4 turbodiesel, both equipped with automatic transmissions.

The pricing was also revealed, and both are more expensive than their predecessors – the 2.4 VRZ oil burner goes for RM186,900 (RM7,726 more than the outgoing 2.5G), while the range-topping 2.7 SRZ is priced at RM199,900 (RM12,817 more than the previous-gen 2.7G). Both prices are on-the-road inclusive of insurance and a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.

The petrol version, which weighs in at 2,090 kg, features an updated 2TR-FE 2.7 litre engine, which now comes with Dual VVT-i tech. Mechanical revisions to the mill have brought about improved combustion, less friction and a bit more in the way of output, with figures being 166 PS at 5,200 rpm and 245 Nm at 4,000 rpm, six PS and four Nm more than before.

As for the 2,010 kg diesel variant, it’s powered by a 2.4 litre GD turbodiesel, which replaces the 2.5 litre unit found in the outgoing SUV. The 2GD-FTV, which puts out 150 PS at 3,400 rpm and 400 Nm from 1,600 to 2,000 rpm, features common-rail direct-injection and variable nozzle turbocharging. Both variants get a six-speed automatic transmission (petrol adds paddle shifters), which sends power to all four wheels.

Under the skin, the Fortuner features larger cross sections for its ladder frame, and sits on double wishbone front suspension and five-link rear suspension with coil springs. The rear differential lock also has its componentry placed within the differential housing for improved off-road protection.

Specification-wise, the petrol 2.7 SRZ is clearly the more upmarket variant, as its kit suggests. It gets bi-LED projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, chrome door belt mouldings and 18-inch wheels with 265/60 profile highway terrain rubbers, while the 2.4 VRZ settles for halogen projectors (also with auto function) and 17-inch alloys fitted with 265/65 all-terrain tyres.

Much the same when you get inside. The new interior, which is decidedly more sophisticated-looking and plusher than that of the outgoing car, features a leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel (with wood and silver trim) and gear knob, a Camry-style Optitron instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch colour TFT LCD multi-info display and automatic climate control (front and rear).

There’s also a DVD-AVN head unit with an eight-inch touchscreen, door courtesy lamps, a cooler function for the glove box storage, an eight-way powered driver’s seat (fourand dark brown combination leather upholstery.

That’s on the petrol. The diesel makes do with an urethane steering wheel and gear knob, back light instrument display and manual air-conditioning (front and rear). Other items include a CD player audio system (the DVD-AVN is available as as option), manual adjustment for the driver’s seat and fabric upholstery, also in dark brown.

Standard equipment across the two-model range are keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco and Power), an electronic 4WD Transfer Dial and Toyota’s Premium Security and Solar Film.

The second row seats (with Isofix) have a 60:40 split-fold with one-touch tumble, while the last row has a 50:50 split with a “One-touch Easy Space Up” function – the seats flip up onto the bodyside, instead of folding flat into the floor like on most rivals.

As for safety kit, the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ is equipped with seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver knee), ABS, brake assist, VSC, Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Trailer Sway Control (TSC). Out of this long list, the diesel 2.4VRZ only gets three airbags (front and driver knee) and ABS.

View the complete specifications of the new Toyota Fortuner at Carbase.my.