The Toyota Fortuner has been long hailed as the king, not only in its respective segment but also for the entire Philippine automotive industry as well, with its second-generation model consistently topping the sales chart. It may seem that the Japanese brand’s midsize SUV became a crowd favorite, perhaps, this is because of its esteemed traits as to practicality and reliability, therefore making it an ideal vehicle for Filipino families. Years have already passed and finally, its second-generation model has then received a proper update, with it having a revamped exterior, more convenience features, and an uprated 2.8-liter diesel engine option for the higher-end trims.
Now, it is worth noting that the gas option has been removed for the Fortuner’s 2021 lineup already, with its variant range being composed of six distinct trims. With such plentiful options for you to choose from, we’ve provided a chronological list of its variants, therefore giving you a glimpse and some ideas on which Fortuner fits your taste and most importantly, budget.
Grand entry
The G is the entryway to the Fortuner line, apart from having the standard 2.4-liter diesel that puts out 148 hp and 400 Nm of torque, this particular trim can also be had in either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Going beyond its mechanicals, both the G MT and AT get identical exterior appointments, the following include the body-colored door handles, Bi-Beam LED headlights with daytime running lights, and 17-inch alloys.
Inside, this entry-level trim gets a decent amount of features, including a 7-inch infotainment system that sports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Smart Device Link. In terms of audio, the Fortuner G comes with a 6-speaker sound system. Lastly, the seats are wrapped in fabric upholstery while adjustability can only be done manually.
Safety and security features include a set of airbags (driver, passenger, and knee), ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control, a complimentary reverse camera, and speed-sensing locks, front and rear parking sensors, and many more. Prices start at P1,633,000 for the G MT and as you go up to the AT, it shall increase by about P1,723,000.
Step up a bit
If you find the G too basic for you, then perhaps you’d consider stepping up a bit to the V trim. Retailing at P1,842,000, the Fortuner V does get a bit more extra than your average G. Unlike the entry-level variant, the V can only be had in a 6-speed automatic which is the aforementioned 2.4-liter engine.
Exterior-wise, the V trim carried over the majority of its appointments from the G, except, the door handles are now treated in chrome for a more elegant stance. There are also some contrasting materials on the grille, plus, the headlights now come with LED turn signals instead of bulbs. Moreover, this variant comes with mudguards and roof rails for better emphasis of its ruggedness.
The major upgrade in its cabin would have to be the larger 8-inch touchscreen that still sports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Smart Device Link. Like the G, this particular trim also comes with a 6-speaker sound system. In exchange for the traditional key from the entry-level variant, the Fortuner V then benefits from a smart keyless entry along with a push start button.
While the majority of the safety features were again carried over from the G, its complementary camera system, however, has been upgraded to a Panoramic View Monitor which should give drivers more certainty as they maneuver this large SUV.
Going beyond just looks
Going up to the doesn’t only reward you with heightened looks and more features, rather it’s the starting trim that offers a larger 2.8-liter diesel. The said power plant is able to churn out a healthier 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. It is then paired with the aforementioned 6-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of looks, the Q variant benefits from larger 18-inch alloys while it carries over several exterior elements from the V. Inside, the Fortuner retains the same layout, however, it does get upgraded with leather upholstered seats along with power adjustability. Other amenities were retained as well, including the infotainment system, however, it does get a power tailgate which should be more convenient while loading up the Fortuner’s cargo.
The biggest upgrade on the Q trim would have to be the addition of the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes a slew of driver-assist features such as a pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
All these features can be yours at P2,013,000.
The most rugged Fortuner yet
Now we reach the range-topping variant of the pack. Unlike all trims, the Fortuner LTD can either be had in 4x2 or 4x4, along with the same 2.8-liter engine that’s paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission.
What sets it apart from the rest is the abundance of aesthetic upgrades, which heightens the overall ruggedness of the Fortuner. Black details invade the exterior of the midsize SUV, including the contrasting roof color, the mesh type blacked-out grille, and the side mirrors. It also gets a different set of alloys, measuring 18-inches, and are then treated with a machine cut finish.
Inside, there are some signature design cues to the LTD trim, including its two-tone leather which are crafted with maroon accents. The sound system has also been upgraded, with LTD variants having a 9-speaker JBL audio system.
The rest of its safety features remain as is, including the Toyota Safety Sense Package. However, it does come with Downhill Assist Control and extra airbags, namely with the addition of side and curtain units.
If you want a bit more presence and attitude, then the LTD trim is for you. Again you can either opt between two drivetrain options, P2,244,000 for the 4x2 and P2,404,000 for the 4x4.
Verdict
It can be quite confusing yet tricky to go over the wide range of variants the Fortuner has. Although, after a thorough walkthrough on each trim we’ve come to the decision that the overall winner of this comparison would have to be the 2.8 Q Diesel 4x2 AT. At P2,013,000, this particular trim already rewards you with a slew of safety and convenience features.
If the budget does not permit or perhaps you just find it a bit too much, then the G and V variants are well-acceptable options as well. Lastly, the LTD is for those who wanted to be a bit extra, it does look rugged than your usual Fortuner and perhaps that might appeal to some buyers out there. The extra equipment does Justify the price increase and if your budget does permit, then it’s definitely worth giving it a shot.
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