Toyota Fortuner mild hybrid (MHEV) SUV has been revealed for the South African market. The model features a 2.8L diesel engine benefited from a 48V mild hybrid tech and an electric motor generator. The same setup offered in the global-spec Hilux lifestyle pickup truck. It’s combined power and torque outputs stand at 201bhp and 500Nm, respectively, with mild hybrid tech providing a power boost of 16bhp and 42Nm of torque. Read: New Toyota FJ Cruiser – Mini Fortuner Might Come To India
The carmaker claims that its MHEV system has no impact on the vehicle’s off-road and towing capabilities, improving torque assist, regenerative braking and resulting in smoother start/stop functions. Furthermore, Toyota says that this setup enhances the Fortuner’s fuel efficiency by up to 5 percent compared to its diesel-only version. Both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains are on offer. The Toyota Fortuner MHEV is being offered with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
The South Africa-spec Toyota Fortuner MHEV also comes with a 360 degree camera and Toyota Safety Suite – ADAS. The ADAS tech offers features such as lane departure alert, pre-collision system, lane tracing assist, dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assist, automatic high beam and proactive driving assist.
New-Gen Toyota Fortuner In India
The Fortuner is set to get a new lease of life with a generation change towards the end of this year. The SUV’s all-new model is likely to hit Indian shores in early 2025. Underpinning the brand’s TNGA-F platform, the new Toyota Fortuner will feature a newly-designed grille with vertical intakes, revised headlamps and bumper housing rectangular-shaped fog lamps. The SUV might get a new set of alloy wheels, updated taillamps and rear bumper.
On the feature front, the new Fortuner will get vehicle stability control and an electric steering that will surely contribute to its overall performance. The India-spec version is likely to come with the existing 2.8L turbo diesel engine. However, speculations on rife that it might also get the mild hybrid tech.