KOLKATA: Toyota Indian finally launched the automatic transmission AWD version of its most popular SUV Fortuner along with a smaller 2.5-litre engine and some minor cosmetic changes. Though a previous model of Fortuner had the automatic transmission option, it was only available in two-wheel (2WD) variant. Toyota Kirloskar Motors has priced the new Fortuner 4×4 AT at INR 26.59.
The 4×4 automatic transmission was a long awaited feature that was missing from the Fortuner. The only reason the Japanese carmaker did not introduce it in the initial days was because it would have been an expensive preposition for the Indian market. Considering the current demand and well-established market status of the Fortuner, the pricing wouldn’t be much of a concern now.
On the design front the Fortuner is much different from the previous models except for some cosmetic changes. The new Fortuner comes with new smoked headlamps with chrome garnish and silver toned fog lamps. It also gets a new wider air dam that continues up to the fog lamps giving you the feeling of one single element. Also the new 4×4 AT version comes with 17 inch alloy wheels with a grey tinge. In addition to the AWD automatic, Toyota has also announced standardization of dual front airbags across all variants of all models in the portfolio.
Under the hood the Fortuner 4×4 AT is powered by the 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder D-4D diesel engine with Intercooler Turbocharger that pumps out 171PS of max power at 3,600rpm and 360Nm of max torque from 1,400-3,200 rpm. Additionally the new Fortuner also gets a smaller 2.5 litre diesel engine which is available in both manual and automatic gearbox options. Both the manual and automatic are 5-speed units. The Toyota Fortuner 2.5L is a rear-wheel drive vehicle and there is no 4WD variant on offer. The 2494cc, 4-cylinder engine produces 144 PS of peak power at 3400 RPM and 343 Nm of peak torque between 1600-2800 RPM.
Toyota Kirloskar Motors will be offering the new Fortuner as per the revised prices to accommodate the increased excise duty. The base variant will cost you INR 24.27 lakhs, a good INR 2 lakh above the previous rates. Each variant will be costlier by at least INR 2 lakh now with 6% of the amount being the added excise.
