MOTORING NEWS - The Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 is quite heavy and probably its target market is the sedate who have many people to transport.
Still, the vehicle has engine technology that has made it popular with generations thanks to its 2,8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with double overhead camshafts and 16 valves.
The Toyota also boasts a turbocharger, to produce 130kW of power and 450Nm of torque between 1 600 and 2 400rpm.
The Fortuner has had an extreme make-over and is now a handsome beast. Toyota calls its design "distinctive, sleek, striking, powerful, bold, impressive, handsome and muscular".
Adding lustre to the package are all-new 18" alloy wheels in 265/60/R18 rubber. Inside, the Fortuner will seat seven people on leather over three rows, with the front seats flared at the shoulders and fitted with firm bolsters for maximum support.
The second-row seating is split 60/40, and features a slide function and reclining backrests. Third-row seating is split 50/50 and features a recline function. Both rows can easily be stowed to provide additional luggage space.
There is also ample cabin storage, with a generous number of cup and bottle holders. Air conditioning is standard and features separate air-flow controls for second-row passengers, while an air-conditioned compartment above the glove box can be used to cool or warm items.
The Fortuner features three 12-volt accessory sockets and the audio system has six speakers, an auxiliary/ USB port, AM/FM radio, a CD player and a 7" screen with DVD compatibility and a reversing camera display. Other convenience features include standard Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel audio and telephone controls, plus power door locks, windows and mirrors.
Toyota says that the all-wheel drive Fortuner boasts the chassis, suspension, stabilisers, torsional rigidity and reinforcements to make it a more than capable off-roader.
However, the vehicle will probably spend about 90% of its time to commute around town, all on tar roads.
Still, it would be good to know that your Fortuner boasts a comprehensive anti-corrosion strategy that includes extensive use of galvanised steel for most of the vehicle's exterior panels and cabin, plus extensive use of undercoating and chip-resistant coatings.
Standard electronic safety features include vehicle stability control, active traction control, trailer sway control and hill start assist control. The brakes feature ventilated discs - 338mm at the front and 312mm at the rear. Under heavy braking, the hazards will flash to provide an emergency signal to other road users.
The Fortuner offers superbly comfortable transportation, is easy to manoeuvre and park and would burble along happily at 120km/h.
At an asking price of R617 900, it is better priced than the competition, so we see it as an ideal form of transportation, with the properties of a luxury car, plus real off-roading credentials.
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