2021 Toyota Fortuner: Pros & Cons

Toyota Malaysia introduced the updated version of the Fortuner in February this year, alongside the new Innova. The refreshed SUV is more upmarket and gives you more reasons to love it. It gets new styling inside out, new features, and a new powertrain under the hood. But just like other good things in the world, this SUV also has some areas where it needs improvement. So, in this article, we are going to discuss Toyota Fortuner's pros and cons. But before starting that, let’s have a look at its variant-wise price list.

2021 Toyota Fortuner price list

Variant	Price (On-the-road price including SST, without insurance)
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 VRZ AT 4×4	RM 203,183
Toyota Fortuner 2.7 SRZ AT 4×4	RM 172,244
Toyota Fortuner 2.4 AT 4×4 (only available in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan)	RM 167,357

Now, moving to the pros and cons.

Toyota Fortuner Pros 

• Powerful and responsive engine: The range-topping VRZ trim is equipped with a 2.8-litre turbo diesel mill that delivers a maximum power of 204 PS at 3,400 rpm and a peak torque of 500 Nm between 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. The new engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with a sequential shifter that offers smooth shifting with direct pressure control for a sporty feel. The available driving modes are Normal, Eco and Sport.

• Contemporary styling: The new Fortuner boasts an imposing street presence thanks to its muscular and contemporary design. There are two different exteriors; the 2.7 SRZ gets a wavy radiator grille with chrome accents, LED headlights paired with LED DRLs, slimmer LED tail lights, and 18-inch alloys. The 2.8 VRZ, on the other hand, looks aggressive with a slim upper grille that has a mesh-style insert and an angry-looking lower intake. Adding to its sporty appearance are automatic quad-LED headlights, sequential LED turn signals, a blacked-out roof, roof spoiler, dual-tone 18-inch wheels, an exclusive rear bumper, a grey painted diffuser, and L-shaped LED tail lights.

• Top-notch safety kit: As Toyota and safety go hand in hand, the new Fortuner is fitted with all top-notch safety features. Included in the standard pack are seven airbags, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist control, active traction control, downhill assist control, anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist, Panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert , front/rear parking sensors. Besides these, the range-topping model also gets the Toyota Safety Sense suite for the first time, which includes three driver assists - Pre-collision system with auto brake, Lane departure alert with yaw assist, and Dynamic radar cruise control.

• Hi-tech interior: Inside the cabin, the SUV is loaded with a 9-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity, a 4.2-inch colour multi-info display, automatic air-conditioning with auto rear vents, cruise control, variable flow control power steering, smart entry and start system, electrochromic rear-view mirror, vehicle telematics system, 8-way powered front seats, LED interior lamps, illuminated entry with push start, and more. 

Toyota Fortuner Cons 

• Lack of Manual Option: As mentioned, both variants of the Toyota Fortuner are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission with no option for a manual gearbox. This could be a deal-breaker for the ones who love to control the gears on their own.

• Missing some popular modern-day features: At a given price point of RM 203,183, the top-spec 2.8 VRZ misses out on some popular modern-day features like sunroof, auto-wipers, lumbar adjustment, tyre-pressure monitoring system, and a large number of speakers for the sound system.
• No flat-fold system for third-row: Another lacking we found inside the SUV is that its third row of seats does not fold flat. Rather, one needs to stow them away on the sides if extra luggage capacity is required. 

Well, these were the areas where we think the Toyota Fortuner excels and disappoints. Now, it’s time for you to check this out by yourself. So, get a test drive today at your nearest Toyota dealership.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Altis gets Nurburgring accessory kit in Thailand