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Toyota Bahrain unveiled the new Fortuner and the second generation of the popular off-road SUV model aims to cut a swathe through the opposition in its segment.
A major redesign starts with the exterior with the new ‘Solid Fluidity’ design language that the Japanese marque has introduced.
This aims to express extreme toughness and muscle through a high-body axis, including the bulging wheel-arch flares and a chunky trapezoidal front bumper.
Other elements have been refined, such as more slender headlight clusters that are fused with the front fenders, the three lines that sculpt the roof line and flanks, as well as the sleek rear combination lamps and licence plate garnish that blend with the rear body.
The interior has had a major revamp for 2016, too, and now oozes comfort and safety, alongside technological triumph.
First and foremost, on the infotainment front, there is a seven-inch tablet multimedia touchscreen display that allows easy operation of both the audio and navigation systems. As well as AUX and USB playback options, the full-colour display also employs a Rear View Monitor System to help with reverse parking.
Other standard features include a Smart Entry & Start system, an electronic 4WD switch and second-row seats with one-touch operation for ease of folding.
Under the bonnet, there are two options available. These include a 2.7L four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 164bhp and 25.0kg-m of torque, and a 4.0L V6 engine, which churns out 235bhp and 38.3kg-m of torque.
Both offer a six-speed automatic transmission which maximises engine potential and multi-stage gears optimised to improve drive force in the low-speed range. A paddle shift allows gear changes without releasing the wheel for a sporty drive.
Speaking of drive modes, a switch offers a choice of Eco or Power driving, while a 4WD switch is also equipped to help with off-road capabilities.
A suite of safety features are available for the Fortuner too. These include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). There is also a Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) for the front seats along with a knee airbag for the driver. In terms of seatbelts, a three-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelt is equipped on all seats.
A pre-tensioner and force limiter function are also provided for the front seat belts, while a top tether anchor compatible with the Child Restraint System (CRS) is present for the second-row seat.
Members of the media and fans of the marque made their way to the EK Kanoo showroom in Sitra last weekend for an unveiling ceremony.
The Fortuner’s executive chief engineer, Hiroki Nakajima, said: “Our development concept was to build a true SUV that has style and confidence. The new Fortuner is the outcome of our continuous efforts to redefine toughness while offering our customers powerful vehicles with drastically improved off-road capabilities.
“To ensure peace-of-mind for our customers, we developed a new stronger frame which enables the vehicle to withstand even rougher road conditions, in addition to an improved four-link suspension system for a more comfortable drive.
“The new engine offers high torque at lower RPMs. Furthermore, the design concept is ‘rough but cool’, with three bold, iconic lines. On top of all of this, the all-new Fortuner offers premium utility and safety features.”
The new Toyota Fortuner is available now from the starting price of BD10,500. For more information, visit the showroom in Sitra, call 17730730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh
