Toyota Fortuner Mini Review
UPDATE: See more Toyota Fortuner pictures at The Unlawyer’s Photoblog.
I was lucky enough to recently test-drive the Philippines’ most sought-after vehicle (last year at least), the Toyota Fortuner, and here are some pictures of its interior [This is also my first attempt at automobile photography - Ed]:
Briefly, the Toyota Fortuner is one of a trio of vehicles based on the Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform devised by the manufacturer in part to offer reasonably-priced cars that are easily adaptable to the particular conditions of the countries in which they are sold.
This model I used was powered by a 3.0-litre common-rail turbodiesel engine mated to a four-wheel drive automatic transmission. My only beef with the gearshift lever supplied with this vehicle is it is very easy for a driver to disable overdrive without him knowing it – a sideways flick of the stick does the trick instead of the usual thumb-actuated button. This probably explains why I consumed more than my usual quota of diesel for my out-of-town foray with this SUV.
Note the tiltable four-spoke leather-clad steering wheel: I personally prefer the unadorned hard-plastic two-spoke kind for better control. The analog instrument cluster is always illuminated whenever the vehicle is in use.
The in-car entertainment system includes a player than can show DVDs as well. A very distracting feature best left unused while the vehicle is in motion.
Note too the leather-clad seats. The interior was roomy enough, at par with the Toyota Prado but certainly less than its larger cousin the Toyota Land Cruiser.
Acceleration was pretty quick; the engine itself was smooth enough to be mistaken for a gasoline model, with hardly any vibrations being felt in the passenger cabin. It takes a while longer to stop on gentle braking, but that’s expected for a vehicle this size. The suspension too was somewhat stiff and may fatigue some drivers, but again that’s expected from a basic SUV like this one.
Based on my all-too-fleeting experience, the diesel-fired Toyota Fortuner was a pleasant enough SUV to drive both on the expressway, provincial roads, and city streets.
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UPDATE: Take a look at my brief review of the new, facelifted 2009 Toyota Fortuner.
[...] Here’s a close-up of the troublesome – to myself anyway – Fortuner automatic transmission shift stick I mentioned in my last entry about this vehicle. Notice how easy it is to disengage from overdrive to a less-than-economical three-speed setting with a flick of the wrist. Permalink | Trackback URL | RSS Feed | TechnoLinks TagIt! in: del.icio.us • Spurl • Furl [...]
Yeah, it is a good review, but how stiff were the suspensions. Were they as good as the land Cruiser, or worse?
Slightly stiffer, I would say, but then again I’m fairly used to stiff 4X4 suspensions.
YOUR TOYOTA FURTUNER IS GREAT………
how do you compare it with the hyundai santa fe?
Sorry papajim I haven’t driven a Hyundai Santa Fe before.
i own a 2008 release 2X4,2.5 diesel toyota fortuner.its nice to drive the only thing i complain is that not so good suspension esp on rough roads which considering it was desined to,
regards to paapjim.. santa fe is just ok but i prefer fortuner instead…hyundai is no compare to toyota
OT: I’m thinking of getting a Hyundai Tucson. Any feedback?
ow ya fermil its not that good at rough roads cause u got the 2×4,i wish u got the 2×4
i mean 4×4 !
Im planning to purchase a fortuner, but I got different reviews from owners regarding its fuel efficiency. The owners of 2008 models claimed they got more than 10 km/liter, city driving. Owners of earlier models claimed 6-8 km/L. Meron bang difference ang 2008 models?
maganda ba ang toyota fortuner na 2.5 diesel??? hindi ba hirap ang engine??? pls reply asap =)
Hindi ko pa nasususbukan yung 2.5 diesel model so I wouldn’t know if there is an appreciable difference between the two.
If I were you get a manual tranny for the 2.5 diesel Fortuner.
Is it a perfect car for offroad activity? I’m afraid i’m gonna scratch her
@doctor
The fuel economy for the 2008 model is much better than the earlier versions. I own a 4.0L V6 Fortuner 2008 model, and believe me its the best car i have bought so far other than the BMW 740iL.
If you need all the power of the V6 4.0L then go for it or you could also opt for the V4 2.7L, which is sufficient for normal city and offroad usage (my friend has got one) and is less hungry concerning the fuel. If you are a power freak like me then go for the V6 version. Its a safe bet. And also you get good resale value for it (toyota vehicles are always the best for reselling).
The looks are good, so much that the fortuner doesn’t shy away standing nect to the Land Cruiser, Prado or the Pajero and like.
As some one said, “It is an expensive looking car but cheaper”
Great Car for me.
Toyota Fortuner is a great SUV, however, Several owners seem to complain about its suspension when comparing it to other SUVs. But Guys, always remember that the Platform of fortuner is based on a pick-up (Hilux); so the ride will be same as other pick-ups.
I don’t mind its suspension specially on 4×4 as long as i can get thru whatever road that is because i also own several pick-ups.
I find my 2007 Fortuna unsafe and would love to know what the NCAP rating is (one star maybe)
Currentlly trading it in on a 2004 Prado 40 VX
Refuse for my family to be in a death trap
Toyota Fortuna comes out with the 4th worst tyres on the market Genral Grabber SSFG (Super Slip F#$#ckall Grip)
great vehicle, i love it.
I have an obession over this vehicle,Its my dream car, u could have given more features to make me completely satisfied, like free dvd players, navigational systems and a telecom, and backup screen.
Does anyone know about options to fit a dvd player and lcds for viewing for the rear passengers? Are there Toyota options for in-headrest lcds (2 of them) as well as Toyota options for in-ceiling (12 inch) lcd players? And would they come with dual headphone jacks or only integration into the car’s speakers?
do you have an manual transmission on FORTUNER please
I own a 3.0V fortuner.. The suspension is so stiff.. It makes me uncomfy. Does anyone know the best suspension brand in the market today that is perfectly fitted to suvs?
to papajim: santa fe doesn’t have a chasis so fall of a hill your sta fe will turn to scrap
to fermil: you feel the tough suspension coz its the same platform as the hilux, so your actually driving a TRUCK
to paul: get a sportage 4×4 its cheaper than a 4×4 tucson and the ride is better
doctor, consider getting a sorento its real value for money
i own a 2007 toyota 4×2 fortuner 2.5liter disel. ive had it for 1 year and months. i used it for 100km per day. currently at 27,000+. so far you still dont hear or feel the engine vibration inside the cabin, it still feels like a gasoline engine. its fuel efficient. one full last me five to six days. I’m very much satisfied with it. yes the suspension is quite stiff. i replaced the air with nitrogen and reduced the tire inflation to only 30. it was a lot better after that. no need to spend an extra 200k to change it to a land cruser suspension. (althought that option was offered by the dealer). i hope toyota does NOT change its fortuner model soon. what it can do is improve its suspension. im generally very happy with my fortuner. the engine is quite good, i have no problem accelerating to 120km per hour. it still feel very much stable and smooth at that speed. the shifting of its automatic transmission is smooth and quiet, you don’t hear feel it shifting gears.
althought i use it mostly for long distance hi-way driving. fuel consumption maybe different for city driving.
hi.. i live in dubai, I’m planning to purchase a Fortuner 4V. 2.7 ltr. Based on my understanding although the car was not available for test drive yet..felt the 2.7 ltr with 4 v capacity is not good enough to drive the heavy built.. considering there are times that we drive off-road in the desert (i dont mean desert safaris..:), do you think this can hold the pressure.. i also know that 6 V 4.0 ltr eng addresses my concerns ..considering the cost i was making my decision on 4v vehicle.. request someone from the forum to throw some light..risk involved in buying 4.v 2.7 ltr against the offroad use considering my option to pick a higher powered vehicle in the same range.
allie, pick the bigger engine.. power to weight ratio must be considered at all times..
Allie,
I also live in Dubai, and also at the same time looking at the Fortuner. I juat came back from the Toyota show room and will be doing some test drive tomorrow. Pitty that they don’t seem to have alot of options available.
I am too deciding if I should go for the V6 engin or the 4 ccylinder engin. You might also want to check out the new Honda CRV. I can tell you from my first hand experience today it was awsome – but the interior is very disappointing though. I took it up to 160km though the business bay bridge, I felt the car handles itself with confident all the way. You might like it too.
i don’t understand y all vchicle in india is expensive & quality standerd is low than other country. r v that cheap ????
I am leaving Saudi Arabia, I am too deciding purchased Toyota Fortuner is a great car, however, Several owners seem to complain about its suspension when comparing it to other SUVs.
I am leaving Saudi Arabia, I am planing to purchase this great car our all family members like this car. About color we have seen very limited color! not like Trialblaizer or KIA.
Just recently bought (April’08) this SUV 4×2 2.5L diesel, driving was great and compare the price. You’ll have to buy to appreciate the adrenalin city or highway driving. Greatly recommended to my fellow OFW out there.
Hi, i have a feed back regarding Toyota Fortuner 2.7 it is very good which i’ve drove already around 3500 km here in Dubai. What is my suggestion only to upgrade rear brake change it to disc type brake.
Ive got 4V 2.7L 4×4 today. Could anyone tell me about the performance of this model? I live here in Dubai. I intend to use this SUV offroad since I am working in site offices.
Hi! My Diesel 2.5L Fortuner is due for delivery next week! My concern is, will it be able to bring my family of seven to Baguio without any engine trouble considering that the HP is only 100? I had a hard time choosing bet ween the gas 2.7L and the diesel 2.5L. Gas has a higher horse power of 160 but consumes gas more. The diesel consumes gas less but with lesser power! I finally got the Diesel! Was is the right choice?
Hello, does your Fortuner have a manual or automatic tranny?
Hello,
I am planning to buy Toyota fortuner 2007, the mileage is 80000 kms and single hand drive. Please advise what could be the best price to offer.
Hi, I’m having thoughts of buying a new car here in Dubai.
It seems that suspension of the Fortuner is not that good with reference to the comments here.
How is the 2.7L Fortuner suspension compared to that of a 3.0L Pajero…
I heared the difference in price is not that big for the basic model..
any views/cpmments on this…
thanks..
hello. what is the compression ratio of a fortuner 4 X 2 diesel? is it a fuel economy wise car?
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I own a Diesel 4×2 Toyota Fortuner, the engine is perfect for its size and weight, with very slight engine vibration, the cabin is very quiet, acceleration is great for a Diesel, fuel economy is far better than my Pajero, but the ride is quite stiff (my Pajero has a better ride) so the best thing to do is to replace the gas shock absorbers with either Monroe or Gabriel hydraulic shocks or Rancho Air Adjustable shocks for a better ride.
If you are used to riding 4×4 SUVs or pick-up trucks with stiff suspensions then the Fortuner’s relatively stiff ride would hardly be noticeable. If you travel in rough roads with mud or loose gravel get a 4×4 Fortuner, but if you seldom drive over these areas then a 4×2 is the best. The cabin is roomy and better than my Pajero too.
The sound system and the leather seats are great but could have been better for the 4×2. Would like to see an improved air distribution system in future models and better matting. The matting leaves a lot of room for improvement including its grisly color. It gets soiled easily and scratches on the plastic running boards are such a problem.
In general, am very plesed with my Fortuner. It is a good buy and priced reasonably. If you want to up the ante buy a Toyota Prado.
That’s what I’ve always liked about the Pajero – the old boxy model anyway: an almost car-like suspension.
Dislike? The anemic 4D56 diesel engine.
I am interested of buying quality used cars such as TOYOTA, ISUZU CROSSWIND, HONDA, MITSUBISHI and HYUNDAI STAREX. Interested seller may call me at +63922-8215448 anytime. Thanks.
i recently went for a trip to phuket was amazed to see the fortuner but quite disappionted went i got back to australia to find out we cant get them over here
The TOYOTA FORTUNER is the SUV that gives you QUALITY PERFORMANCE while on the ROAD!!!
TOYOTA FORTUNER is the SUV that I like most!
im planning to buy fortuner 3.0 4×4, what its fuel consumption? how many kilometer per liter?
how about the all new montero sports gls se compare to fortuner?
I am planning to buy the 2009 4×4 Diesel A/T Toyota Fortuner,
can anybody give me an update of the relevant changes compared to 2008 model.
Like suspension, as Ive’d read the complete forum.
Jab ye Market main ayega. Market main agg lag jaye ga.
I have toyota landcriuser prado tz limited 2008.i take it on 190km/h on motorway.it make me more comfort than 140km/h.so i want to say that gari ho to prado ho.
i have toyota vigo when i drive it.i think that this is a car or cart so plz avoid vigo ma lun bhain chod phudi sari gandooo car
I’m going to buy a toyota fortuner 2006, automatic and ful option.
The mileage is 90000 klms. what could be the lowest price for it?
i want to buy a earlier model of fortuner & also want to know how much fuel efficiency of earlier fortuner model?
I have one toyota fotuner 2009, it is really good. The prise in Afghanistan is 30000USD.
Hello guys, my husband and I were planning to but a Fortuner. Don’t know much of the specs coz what matters most to us is safety and comy especially riding with my 1 year old daughter. shall we pursue buying it? what would it be 4×2 or 4×4? we’re living in bulacan and our office is in makati. would appreciate your help.. thanks!!!
** buy and ** comfy. sori typo error.
I drive a d4d 3.0L desiel Toyota Fortuner, I usually drive cross country -Zimbabwe,South Africa, Botswana, Namibia. It is a nice and economic ride. The problem though is if its loaded, the rear sits so low you end up blinding oncoming traffic at night. The fuel economy does not change much but the engine feels overloade hence you dont get the same perfomance. Its a good buy though.
Is the aircon ok??
bine 1 Toyota
I am planning to buy a SUV and Fortuner is high in my list,
recently I tested a 2006 Fortuner, found that it suspension is not satisfactory, I looking for economic improvement, any recommendation? before making my decision.. Thanks
Toyota 2009 Fortuner 4×2 Gx2 AT is superb SUV, you have to drive it to appreciate the remarkable road performance, especially on the wide roads & highways of SAUDI ARABIA…MUMTAZ
Toyota Fortuner is a bang for the buck vehicle.. You get your money’s worth! In fact, its even more than that.. For the amenities and features that goes along with it, it should be priced higher.. Toyota Fortuner = dependability and reliability all in…
Its a very good car. I might buy the Fortuner which will be launched in India in Sep’09 . Please anybody tell me its mileage.
The diesel 3.0l one.
I’m looking to buy a second hand Toyota Fortuner, am in Zambia Kitwe. This vehicle makes love to my mind, any offers?
to yer kind knowledge the toyota fortuner is priced at 18.35lakhs here in india with only 1 diesel version.it luks a mini land cruiser although masters can make out the differnce while sleeping.
lets come to + pnts..mileage unbelievably 12.5km/l
– pnts noise
those who dream a landcruiser can end up buying fortuner
those who dream a E-class benz ,fortuner not of their kind
it’s my dream car! i always read that the suspension is stiff honestly i dont know anything about cars i just love car because of the looks not understanding about what’s reaally inside…
is toyota fortuner 2006 model still okay?! someone is selling me his fortuner…
im planning to buy a toyota fortuner 4×2 diesel manual transmission coz i really love this suv so much. can somebody tell me how much is the fuel consumption liter per kilometer?
I recently bougth my Toyota Fortuner 4L V6 and it’s really good! I dont know if you have that model in the philippines. What i usually hear from you guys, is only the 2.7L and if you’re already happy with it, then you’ll really find the 4L very great and I have that ONe!
I finally got my fortuner g 4×2 dsl m/t. Who says so that its underpowered? Very nice performance. Not “matagtag” as others do comments on it. Maybe, Toyota made adjustments to that problem. Though others say MATAGTAG, its an SUV anyway, pero MATATAG.With all the facelift, really a big different to the old ones.
Laila,
what we got here the the most is 3.0 D4D series V. Not seen any 4L V6 yet here in the Phils.
I accidentally brought all the keys with me of my fortuner 4 X 2 here abroad and I am out of the country for two month are there any procedure how to get the engine started when I return?
Ismael,
As to the keys, there is a small aluminum plate attached to the keyholder which they call it “dog tag” wherein a number was stamped to it. You can write or call your car dealer and ask for duplicate and authorize someone to get it in your behalf. Im not sure what effect to the engine if not started or warmed up in two months time. if your engine oil is senthetic, maybe it can help.
Hazel,
Time to buy na fortuner 4×2 dsl m/t, at least and hopefully ung makuha mo is imported from Thailand. Gud Luck! Lithium please.
hi should i buy pajero v6 2005 model for R235.000 79KM PLUS R30.000 FOR 1005%MAINTANANCE PLAN WILL I EVENTUALLY GET BAD RESALE VALUE
My fortuner has an awful smell coming out of it. They tell me it’s the catalyzer and that it will go away in time, but it’s been 2 months and the smell hasn’t gone away……….is this true or is there just something wrong with this particular truck?
Hi, pls bring it to your Toyota service center and complain, its under warranty.
To those who want to buy a Fortuner 4 x 2, the ride is okay (if you are used to 4 X 4 SUVs. Diesel Fuel consumption, for city driving its around 9 to 10 km/liter. For highway driving, I consumed 1 full tank( 65 liters) going back and forth to Naga City, which is about 800 km or about 12.5 km/liter.
When you bring it to Baguio City, and you park it for awhile, don’t make the mistake of immediately running the car on steep climbs, even just from the parking lot as there will be minimal power and you will not move. I complained this to my Toyota dealer when it was still under warranty and they have no answer for the problem. I recently called Toyota Baguio and they accepted that the Turbo of the 4 x 2 unit is set at 2,000 rpm( No such problem with the 4 x 4). They changed the turbo unit and did some adjustment with the Common Rail Diesel system. Now my unit is not covered by a warranty. I am not sure how much Toyota will charge for the new Turbo.
So if you experience the same when in Baguio City, complain immediately while your unit is under warranty.
always make a habit to start on the low gear even if your car is automatic. it doesnt necesary means that to put it on drive especially if your starting. consider the weight, the stiffness of the road also. in this way you can prolong the life of your automatic transmission. 2.5 G is not underpower it has a power to carries its own weight plus the weight of the passenger. we are just comparing numbers but in reality its more than enough. do not over load your engine always. do not add more than the capacity.
always make a habit to start on the low gear even if your car is automatic. it doesnt necesary means that to put it on drive especially if your starting. consider the weight, the stiffness of the road also. in this way you can prolong the life of your automatic transmission. 2X4,2.5 diesel toyota fortuner is not underpower it has a power to carries its own weight plus the weight of the passenger. we are just comparing numbers but in reality its more than enough. do not over load your engine always. do not add more than the capacity.
hello everyone
a relative is selling me his 2007 A/T DSL fortuner for P900k on a 72000 mileage. can you expertly advice me if this is a good deal? i know that he maintained it well but i also know that he acquired the unit on march 2007. it has been my fantasy to have one.
its good knowing that it was maintanined properly. you will save more rather than buying a brand new one. 900 t is fair price. but if you can make it to 850 much better. keep bargaining until you both agreed on the price. you can apply for car loan if you dont have enough money so that you can have your dream car. it may not be new but still its worth buying it. nothing is sadder than buying a car which is your second choice. fortuner is classy no one will know if its second hand. people will still look at it and be amazed of you. so go for it. if not ill buy it.
thank rosh for your advice. it helps me to finally decide to push through with this deal. actually i can go for a brand new one but i do believe that i am getting a fair deal on this one. yes, i will go for it. thanks.
your welcome. some of the critic dont realy know that D4D engine is one of the best diesel engine. some were mislead because of 102 hp produced by 2.5 diesel engine is very low compare to the 163 hp produced by 2.7 gas engine. they forget the formula of hp/rpm… if we compare both engine. diesel produce 102/3600 and the gas 160/5200.. if you compute it diesel .028 and gas .030.. the number is very near. it means that the diesel engine is almost as the same performance as of the gasoline engine. if you compare the 3.0 engine to 2.7 gas engine. 163 hp/3400 rpm = .47, gasoline =.030… the 4×4 engine is very powerful even at low RPM. 2.5 diesel and 2.7 gas performs almost same. toyota diesel engine performs very good.