2016 Toyota Fortuner to Launch in Q2 2016 in South Africa

Unveiled only yesterday in Australia and Thailand, the second generation Fortuner is confirmed for the South African market with new 2.4- and 2.8-liter diesel engines.

The new Fortuner is shorter than its predecessor, but is 90 mm longer and 15 mm wider, promising a more spacious cabin. However, the wheelbase is unchanged at 2,750 mm.

Though it comes with downsized engines, the 2016 Fortuner delivers more power and torque than its predecessor. The 2.4-liter diesel engine develops 150 PS and 400 Nm of torque, whereas the 2.8-liter diesel engine is capable of 177 PS and 450 Nm of torque.

Engineers have also improved the transmissions of the Fortuner. The 6-speed manual now gets Toyota’s i-MT (intelligent manual transmission) which features rev matching technology, while the 6-speed auto gets paddle shifters should the driver need manual control.

Some of the features confirmed for the South African market include knee airbag, Hill Start Assist, a “tablet-inspired” touchscreen display, electronic 4WD switch, smart entry and start and one-touch operation for the second row seats for easy access to the third row.