Toyota Fortuner Hybrid to make debut in India by early 2023
The Toyota Fortuner 2023 is expected to feature a diesel hybrid system and could get a host of advanced features and safety technology. The new model would seem more premium and have styling similar to that of the Lexus models.
The Japanese auto giant, Toyota, was recently spotted testing in India and seems to be developing an entirely new Innova that could be built on a monocoque platform. Before reaching the Indian market, the third-generation Toyota Fortuner may debut in places like Thailand and Indonesia. It is questionable whether it requires some styling changes, but its distinguishing features, like its muscular body panels, tall pillars creating a wider silhouette, prominent wheel arches, etc., can be retained.
The Hilux and Innova Crysta both use the iMV2 platform, which is also to be used by the current Fortuner. Given its excellent off-road capabilities, it is anticipated that the body-on-frame construction would be retained. With a longer wheelbase, the new Fortuner would be larger and more spacious than the current model. The new model would seem more premium and have styling similar to that of the Lexus models. The interior would be significantly more modernized, featuring a wide touch screen and a digital instrument cluster. A panoramic sunroof, ADAS capabilities, and further technology would also be incorporated.
A new diesel engine with a mild hybrid system will also be included in the all-new Toyota Fortuner. It will be equipped with a 2.8-liter, integrated starter-generator 1GD-FTV diesel engine (ISG). The mild-hybrid diesel engine in the new Toyota could be referred to as the ‘GD Hybrid’. It is most likely going to provide much more torque on demand and higher fuel efficiency.
The engine start/stop system shall also be included. The new Fortuner’s mild hybrid technology allows it to store kinetic energy during braking or deceleration, which can then further be used to generate extra torque while accelerating. The new model is expected to have more power and torque in addition to better fuel economy.