Toyota Kirloskar Motors have launched the updated version of its most popular sports utility vehicle Fortuner, which is doing quite well for the company. This SUV is available in various trim levels, out of which, Toyota Fortuner 2.5 4x2 MT TRD Sportivo is a mid range variant. It is being offered with TRD (Toyota Racing Development) body package, which gives the vehicle a sporty appearance. It is powered by a 2494cc. This engine has the ability to unleash a maximum power of 142bhp in combination with a peak torque output of 343Nm, which is quite good. It is cleverly mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which sends the engine power to its front wheels. The exteriors of this variant has a set of cosmetic features like exclusively designed bumpers, black radiator grille with TRD emblem and side body stripes, which gives it a sporty appeal. At the same time, it is extremely spacious from inside that can host seating for at least seven passengers. The seats inside are very comfortable with sliding as well as reclining function and are covered with good quality leather upholstery. At the same time, its driver's seat can be adjusted in six different ways using electric function, which further adds to the convenience. It also has a multi-information display that is incorporated with an Optitron combimeter with illumination control and several other notification functions. The main highlight of this vehicle is its GOA body structure that includes impact protection beams and crumple zones, which safeguards the occupants inside in case of an accident. It has a robust external appearance with intimidating front facade and masculine side profile. This SUV will competes against the likes of Isuzu MU-7, Honda CR-V, Skoda Yeti, Mahindra Ssangyong Rexton, Renault Koleos, Chevrolet Captiva, Ford Endeavour and others in this segment.
Exteriors:
The designers of the company have done a brilliant job with the exteriors of this SUV. The overall body structure is quite stylish and its frontage looks aggressive. Starting with the side profile, it comes with body colored door handles and external rear view mirrors, which are electrically adjustable and integrated with side turn blinker. The flared up wheel arches are fitted with a set of 12-spoke alloy 17-inch alloy wheels, which enhances the look of its side profile. These rims are covered with high performance tubeless radial tyres of size 265/65 R17 that ensures a superior grip on any road conditions. It also has black colored styling tape on the B-Pillar that adds to the classiness of this utility vehicle. Its front fascia has a slanting bonnet with a scoop and a muscular radiator grille, which is fitted with a few chrome plated slats. This grille is embossed with a prominent company logo in the center. It is flanked by a well designed headlight cluster that is incorporated with projector headlamps and a washer. Below this is the dual tone bumper with cladding for preventing the vehicle from minor damages. It houses a wide air dam for cooling the powerful engine and is surrounded by a couple of fog lamps as well. The large windscreen is made of toughened glass and is integrated with a set of intermittent wipers. Its rear end is designed with a body colored bumper, which houses a couple of reflectors. The expressive boot lid is designed with chrome strip and variant badging. Its windshield is integrated with a defogger and it also has a wash and wipe function. The company has given it a sporty rear spoiler, which is integrated with a centrally located high mounted stop lamp that adds to the safety quotient.
Interiors:
The internal section of this Toyota Fortuner 2.5 4x2 MT TRD Sportivo is quite attractive with a smooth dashboard that is equipped with a few features like advanced instrument cluster, a 4-spoke steering wheel, chrome accentuated AC vents and a large glove box with sun glass holder. In terms of seating, it is incorporated with ergonomically designed seats, which are covered with premium upholstery. These are integrated with adjustable head restraints. While the 2nd and 3rd row seats have sliding and reclining function, which helps in increasing boot volume. The driver seat comes with 6-way power adjustable function for added comfort. It has a leather wrapped steering wheel, gear shift knob and parking lever along with black wood finished door panels gives the cabin a lavish appearance. The company has given it an instrument cluster that has optitron combimeter with illumination control function. For charging mobiles and other electronic devices, it has a couple of 12V power sockets. This SUV is equipped with lots of utility based aspects, which are cup and bottle holders, seat back pockets, remote fuel lid opener and several other features.
Engine and Performance:
This trim is fitted with a 2.5-litre D-4D, Inline diesel power plant, which comes with a displacement capacity of 2494cc. It also has turbocharger with intercooling function that enhances the performance. This engine carries four cylinders along with 16-valves using DOHC based valve configuration. This power plant is coupled with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which allows the SUV to generate a whopping power of 142bhp at 3400rpm along with a commanding torque of 343Nm between 1600 to 5800rpm. This motor enables the vehicle to zoom towards a top speed in the range of 145 to 155 Kmph. While it can cross the speed mark of 100 Kmph in about 13 seconds. At the same time, it is incorporated with a common rail based direct injection fuel supply system. It helps in achieving a mileage of 10-15 Kmpl.
Braking and Handling:
The car maker has given this utility vehicle an efficient braking as well as suspension mechanism , which offers a trouble free and comfortable driving experience on every conditions. The front and rear wheels are fitted with a set of ventilated disc and leading trailing drum brakes respectively. It is further assisted by anti-lock braking system along with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist function. Its front axle is assembled with an independent double wishbone and rear one gets 4-link with lateral rod type of mechanism. At the same time, it is blessed with a hydraulic power assisted steering system that is quite responsive. It has tilt adjustment function and this steering wheel supports a minimum turning radius of 5.6 meters.
Comfort Features:
This mid range variant is incorporated with a number of refined features, which gives the occupants a pleasurable driving experience. It is bestowed with an advanced 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for pairing the mobile phones. This music system supports CD/DVD player, USB interface, Aux-in port and four speakers for enhancing the ambiance of its cabin. It also has a roof mounted antenna for better reception of FM radio. Its multifunctional steering wheel is mounted with audio and cal control buttons for convenience. It is bestowed with a dual automatic air conditioner unit, which has rear AC switch and ceiling vents for cooling the entire cabin quickly. It also has a rear view camera along with a display and a cruise control function. Apart from these, it is equipped follow me home headlamps, puddle lamps on front doors, illuminated ignition key slot, all four power windows with window winding switches and many other such aspects.
Safety Features:
This Toyota Fortuner 2.5 4x2 TRD Sportivo variant is bestowed with a number of protective aspects like a high mounted stop lamp, shift lock system, seat belts with pretensioner and force limiter, central locking system, rear doors with child lock and front fog lamps. This rugged SUV has supplemental restraint system (SRS) based airbags for driver and co-passenger that minimizes the chances of injury. It has a global outstanding assessment body structure with impact beams and crumple zones that reduces the impact of accidents on its passengers. It has an advanced engine immobilizer, which helps in preventing the vehicle from theft and any unauthorized entry.
Pros:
1. Spacious internal cabin with lots of leg space.
2. Decent ground clearance makes it capable for off-roading.
Cons:
1. Exterior appearance can still be improved.
2. Fuel economy is not up to the mark.
