Toyota has unveiled a second generation of its famous sport utility vehicle, Fortuner. The 2016 seven-seater family Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) was unveiled simultaneously last week in Australia and Thailand.
However, Nigerians desiring the new model may wait till March 2016. The new Fortuner is described as all-new from the ground up, featuring an updated ladder-frame platform, new design, premium interior and a new range of engines.
According to Tony Cramb, executive director, Sales and Marketing, Toyota Australia, said the Fortuner shares the rugged underpinnings of the ‘unbreakable’ HiLux, allowing owners to travel to — and return from — places many other SUVs simply can’t go.“Its strength and refinement ensure that the vehicle is equally at home on the school run as on the toughest off-road trails. At the same time, Fortuner’s unique design suits the advanced tastes of modern SUV buyers while being equipped with a comprehensive list of features appreciated by families and business owners.
The Toyota Fortuner comes in two diesel engines and one petrol unit spread across four different variants. The diesel variants consist of the 2.4G 4×2 6MT, 2.4V 4×2 6AT, 2.8V 4×2 6AT, 2.8V 4×4 6AT, while the only petrol offering is the 2.7V 4×2 6AT.
The standard features of the new Fortuner include smart key system with keyless entry, start/stop button, knee airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control system, Hill Assist Control, emergency light system.
A report obtained from the TNL’s website states that the Fortuner owns the moment creating a striking new look with its muscular yet stylish presence, redesigned bumpers, radiator grille, headlamps and rear combination lamps. This is complemented by 17” alloy wheels, colour-coded exterior mirrors (electrically adjustable with integrated indicators), a chrome rear door garnish and a rear spoile with a high-mount stop lamp.
Its High Intensity Discharge headlamps optimize visibility and keep its occupants safe on the road.
The redesigned aluminium side step is equipped with a black plastic cover, emphasising the intrepid look; just as its cover surface is grooved to prevent slipping when running the vehicle on muddy terrain.
In addition to the straight-line-themed sharp form, the use of a lamp configuration giving a sense of depth, and the cylindrical-shaped projector lamp located centrally on the vehicle, convey a high-class, advanced look.
The new vehicle’s design has been modified to bring out its prestige and refinement. “The distinctive rear combination lamps sport two sets of round graphics. The complete lamp is changed to a clear lens configuration, giving a more clear-cut impression and advanced look. A high-class look is presented by using a three-dimensional design of substantial volume that matches the form of the licence plate. The vehicle’s name logo is placed in the centre of the garnish, fostering a clear rearview impression.”
By Dike Onwuamaeze
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