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As I meander through the ancient Swartberg Pass in the Western Cape, while at the wheel of the updated Toyota Fortuner, I’m pondering why this model continues to sell in droves, in spite of a slew of newer competitors in the fold. Launched back in 2016, the locally-manufactured second generation of the Fortuner has managed to remain incredulously buoyant, selling in the region of 900 units per month - accounting for 40% of the market share - which is testament to its unwavering popularity. The model received some cosmetic updates in 2021, which included the addition of the flagship VX specification, replete with plusher finishes and a more sophisticated JBL audio system among others.
In order to try and stave off the competition, Toyota has given the popular Fortuner more improvements for 2023, which comprises a catamaran’s twin hull-inspired exterior design and even more refined cabin appointments, including a new two-tone, burgundy and black leather pews festooned across all 2.8 GD6 models. These bode well with the optional two-tone (black roof and white body) exterior hue, a R10 200 premium and comes highly recommended as it is the most obvious visual update and simply looks ace. In addition, the new front valance is now kitted with LED driving lights and dynamic indicators, while 18-inch alloy wheels are standard across the range. The rear has also been given the once-over, thanks to a remoulded bumper with integrated L-shaped reflectors.
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At launch, we drove the flagship 2.8 GD6 VX 4X4 model that puts out 150kW and 500Nm through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain exhibited good levels of performance and refinement, making lightwork of both on and off-road traverses. Both the steering feel and suspension seem to have been upgraded somewhat, with the former feeling less nervous and jittery than the outgoing model, while the latter’s unwanted shimmy has been dialled down, all the while notching up the ride polish to loftier heights.
Headroom, particularly in the second row of seats remains the model’s achilles heel, so too do those third-row, side folding seats, which obscure over-the-shoulder blind spot visibility. According to a company spokesperson, buyers will have to endure this setup in the current model due to the design platform, which prohibits the more versatile floor-folding seat configuration. This will more than likely be addressed in the next-generation Fortuner, which should arrive in Mzansi in 2026 at the earliest.
Being the oldest model in its segment, the Fortuner has valiantly managed to fend off newer rivals, thanks to constant improvements through its life-cycle, not to mention a wider after-sales network, which makes it a default choice among buyers. Yes, it is getting long in the tooth in most aspects and its packaging remains compromised compared to its rivals, but this has not deterred the almost 1 000 monthly buyers who continue to vote for the model with their wallets, and is testament to the model’s popularity.
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Seven years into its life-cycle, the Toyota Fortuner’s latest updates seem just enough to stave off rivals in the form of the Ford Everest, Isuzu mu-X, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in this popular, mid-size, seven-seater SUV segment. Pricing remains relatively keen and this could be just enough to keep the model's sales leading in earnest. You might wondering whether any Hybrid models are in the pipeline? Well, according to the firm, this will be the case in the next generation of the model as part of its electrification strategy. For now, however, the Fortuner's incremental updates seem to work in its favour in the midst of impending, newer rivals, vying for its crown.
Pricing sees around a 6% hike on the outgoing model
2.4 GD-6 RB MT R653 500
2.4 GD-6 RB AT R677 500
2.4 GD-6 4X4 AT R709 800
2.8 GD-6 RB R794 600
2.8 GD-6 RB VX R837 800
2.8 GD-6 4X4 R873 500
2.8 GD-6 4X4 VX R915 400
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