A few days after the launching of its best selling SUV, the country’s largest automotive player gave the new Fortuner a shakedown cruise at the Clark International Speedway in Clark, Pampanga.
In attendance were Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP) Executives led by Sherwin Chua Lim, TMP VP for Sales and Marketing. “This is a great way to experience what the Fortuner is capable of on and off the road. This will provide you with an accurate feedback on how the SUV performs given the exercises line-up for the day,” explains Lim.
JP Tuason of the famed Tuason Racing School set up the whole track of the Clark Speedway where participants were able to test the acceleration, braking, and handling capabilities of the SUV. Adjacent to the track was an off-road route where the media realized their WRC fantasies driving the Fortuner along the dry river bed.
First introduced in 2005, the new Fortuner is geared up to lock horns with the Mitsubishi Montero, Ford Everest, Hyundai Sta Fe, Chevrolet Colorado and the Isuzu MU-X in the highly competitive SUV market. “Our concept was to build a true SUV that has style and confidence. The all-new Fortuner is the outcome of our continuous efforts to redefine toughness,” says Hiroki Nakajima, executive chief engineer of the all-new Fortuner.
“This latest variant looks more sophisticated and dynamic,” adds TMP president Satoru Suzuki, during a formal presentation before the Fortuner track day held at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Clark. The Fortuner carved its niche in the domestic market by way of its quality, durability, reliability and a tough suspension system that can take on any kind of terrain. The iconic name originates from the word “fortunate,” specifically chosen to symbolize a new type of model designed for customers who long to own a prestigious SUV. Under the hood of this Fortuner is a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that produces 130kW of power and 450Nm of torque and paired to a six-speed transmission.
The G grade comes in sporty 17 inch alloy wheels while the V grade flashes a stylish set of 18 inch alloy wheels.
As you step inside the vehicle, you would be in awe with a bolder and more elegant interior. Its V grade comes in hues of dark brown, black and wood trim details while the G grade boasts colors of chamois, black and dark wood trim details. The 2016 version is bolder and has a longer and wider stance which is an improvement of the previous generation.
With a body-on -rame design that can accommodate seven individuals and powerful diesel engine and a nameplate that spells rock solid reliability and toughness, Toyota’s counterparts have their work cut out for them.
The new Fortuner is offered in five variants with a starting price of P1,386,000. Toyota dealers across the country are currently accepting reservations and delivery of units will commence middle of March, according to Lim.