Toyota to launch the new-Fortuner in 2017, to focus on Innova for now
The new-Fortuner which was unveiled earlier this year has already been on sale in Australia & Thailand. Toyota Kirloskar Motors had initially planned to bring the SUV into India early next year but it shall now focus on the all-important 2016 Innova launch. Meanwhile, the manufacturer has indicated that it will continue to improve upon the localization content, which could translate into an attractive price, when the SUV is finally launched in 2017.
The new-Toyota Fortuner is expected to go up against the likes of Chevrolet’s Trailblazer SUV and the Pajero Sport from Mitsubishi. Powering the new-Fortuner will be Toyota’s GD engine family. Currently comprising of two brand new engines, the lowest one is a 2.4 litre turbo-diesel that should replace the 2.5 litre power-plant which is currently found in existing Toyota vehicles. There is also a 2.8 litre engine which will replace the existing 3.0 litre motor. The lower spec, 2.4 litre engine will initially be debuted on the new-Innova which is scheduled to launch in a short while from now. It makes about 148 bhp of power and 40.7 Nm torque. The larger 2.8 litre motor is rated to produce 175 bhp and 45.5 Nm torque. Toyota are expected to offer two choices in the gearbox department, a manual and an automatic. Both ‘boxes will be a six-speed affair.
Styling wise, the new-Fortuner comes with lashings of chrome, particularly at the front of the car. The headlights now sport a pulled-back look and the wedge-shaped bonnet means that the SUV’s design DNA is in line with that of Toyota SUV’s sold internationally. Thus, in the coming months, Toyota will be focused on ensuring that the all-important 2016 Innova gets off to a successful start.
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