Toyota has unveiled a mild-hybrid variant of the Fortuner in the South African market. Like the Hilux MHEV (Mild-hybrid Electric Vehicle) introduced late last year in the European market, the new Toyota Fortuner MHEV gets a 2.8-litre, four-cylinder, diesel engine and a 48V mild-hybrid system. The latter, which includes an electric motor generator, a 48V battery, and a few other components, makes an additional 16bhp and 42Nm of torque. This, combined with a diesel motor, results in a total output of 201bhp and 500Nm. A six-speed automatic unit, which is standard, performs the transmission duties.
The Toyota Fortuner with mild-hybrid technology is claimed to increase the fuel economy of the turbo-diesel engine by 5 per cent compared to the current-generation Hilux. It is also said to improve engine smoothness with the help of a new idle start-stop feature. The MHEV is available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations.
Toyota Fortuner MHEV: Features
Inside the cabin, the Fortuner MHEV gets an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, steering wheel-mounted controls, leather seat upholstery, an 11-speaker JBL surround sound system, next-generation adaptive cruise control, USB ports, front and rear park distance control, and a limited-slip differential. Safety-wise, the vehicle offers the Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite, a 360-degree camera, and multiple airbags.
Toyota Fortuner MHEV: Aesthetics
On the outside, the Fortuner MHEV looks nearly identical to the Fortuner Legender sold in the Indian market. It gets LED headlamps, a sleek grille, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels. However, it gets more exterior colour options in comparison to the India-spec Fortuner Legender.
Toyota Fortuner MHEV: Will it Arrive in India?
Currently, the India-spec Toyota Fortuner gets two engine options – a 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol and a 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel, both mated to a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Toyota has yet to reveal whether it will add the mild-hybrid version to the lineup. If it plans on doing so, we don't expect it to make it to India anytime soon. In terms of market competition, the Toyota Fortuner rivals the Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian, and MG Gloster in India.
Speaking of the competition, the Jeep Meridian Facelift will be launched in India in 2024. While not much is known, the 2024 Jeep Meridian is expected to get a cosmetic revision to its exterior along with an updated feature list.
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