“Its D4D diesel engine is rather loud and is low on power until warmed up. Then there is sufficient power to pull almost anything on wheels”
Many years ago Toyota launched the Fortuner and it immediately took the market by storm. Some, including myself, questioned its popularity – given that it resembled a Hilux with a canopy. This is exactly the reason that the new Fortuner is more than just a family car with seven seats.
The vehicle has a high ride height and when the two rear seats are folded has ample luggage space. The best part is that it can go almost anywhere. So, what’s new with the Limited Edition? On the outside there’s a stainless steel nudge bar and side steps with Limited Edition insignia. A tow hitch in matt black finish and a boot sill protector further enhance the image. Smoky grey 17-inch wheels are fitted and the side mirrors have a chrome finish to complete the look.
Inside there are leather seats and carpet overlays with the Limited Edition insignia, enhanced by grey wood inlays in the dashboard and the top quarter of the steering wheel.
The Fortuner I tested was an automatic version and fairly easy to drive. Thanks to the power steering and reverse camera, parking was fairly easy, keeping in mind the size of the vehicle. From the driver’s seat you look as if you can drive over most cars on the road and may at times imagine you’re Mad Max, A touch of style for Fortuner – South Africa’s favourite go-anywhere SUV thanks to the rather large bonnet scoop.
Its D4D diesel engine is rather loud and is low on power until warmed up. Then there is sufficient power to pull almost anything on wheels. The leather seats were comfortable, with the driver’s seat being electronically adjustable. Rear seat space and leg room was ample but this was not the case for the third row of seats. These are strictly for kids only.
Its dashboard is well laid out and I personally liked the easy to use touchscreen radio. I assume that the small storage holes below the front air vents are meant for your cellphone. The 4×4 version loses a cup holder upfront to give way to the low-range selector.
On the road the vehicle is a bit bumpy and does not corner like a sports car, but offers a comfortable family ride. Off-road is where this vehicle comes into its own. Tackling the most daunting paths is fairly simple as long as you have the nerve to go through with it. Overall the Fortuner remains a good all-round outdoors family vehicle and in Limited Edition guise you get enhanced looks and exclusivity for a relatively small price increase. ❐
Author: Azim Omar CA(SA) is a member of SAGMJ.
