Toyota has recently introduced the mild-hybrid diesel version of the Fortuner 3-row SUV in South Africa. The same hybrid system is also available in the Hilux pick-up, which is on sale in select South Asian markets. It was speculated that the mild-hybrid version will also be offered on the India-spec model; however, Toyota is yet to make an official announcement on the same. A new media report reveals that the Toyota Fortuner diesel mild-hybrid variant could be launched in our market before the end of 2024.
For people not in the know, Toyota is also working on the next-generation Fortuner SUV. The new Fortuner is expected to make its global debut in 2025 or 2026. It will also arrive in our market; however, the exact launch timeline is yet to be announced. The new model will move on to a new TNGA-F, which underpins several global SUVs.
The Toyota Fortuner MHEV is powered by the same 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine that powers the current Fortuner SUV. This powertrain is coupled with a 48V mild-hybrid system that offers an additional power and torque of 16hp and 42Nm, respectively. This engine churns out a 201hp of power and a peak torque of 500Nm. This powertrain is coupled to a 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. Both 2WD and 4WD configurations are on offer.
Not just added power and torque, the new Fortuner diesel mild-hybrid also offers an improved fuel efficiency. The South African-spec model is now claimed to offer a fuel efficiency of 13.15kmpl. The non-hybrid model delivers 12.65kmpl.
Thanks to the new engine idle start-stop system, the new Fortuner mild-hybrid version is claimed to offer an improved throttle response and a smooth engine restart. Adding to it, the start-stop system also improves the SUV's performance during bumper-to-bumper driving.
The African-spec model also comes with an upgraded safety kit. It comes with a 360-degree surround-view camera and Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite. The ADAS tech offers multiple safety features such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, high-beam assist and forward collision warning.
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