A second look at the Toyota Fortuner

MANILA, Philippines - If there’s one Japanese SUV that needs no introduction, it’s got to be the Toyota Fortuner. Introduced in 2005, it quickly became the darling of local buyers who probably wanted a Ford Expedition but couldn’t afford one or were put off by the inevitable gas bills of that V8-powered behemoth.

One of the strong points of the Fortuner was its styling. Of course, four years is a long time which is why it got a facelift late last year. Personally I found the extent of the facelift too minimal with just the fascia, tail lamps and alloy wheels (now up to 17 inches) getting a revamp.

The Fortuner’s numerous strong points are still there, though. As before, its packaging combines the functionality of an SUV with the versatility of a minivan. Second-row seats are capable of a 60/40 split while third-row seats split 50/50 to accommodate all manner of passenger/cargo combinations. The Fortuner now comes with durable-looking leather seats on all variants.

The Fortuner still comes with Optitron meter gauges that are easy to read and easy on the eyes. Adding to this feature is a 2-DIN MP3/AUX-capable, 6-CD in-dash changer/head unit with a 6-speaker system, which even has a Bluetooth call function. There is also a very useful multi-information display console that updates time, direction, outside temperature and other important functions – a boon when you’re hitting the road less traveled.

A dual air conditioning system with automatic climate control and ceiling-mounted vents, accessory power outlets located at the front and rear, handy map lights, cup and bottle holders, and no less than 21 convenience pockets underscore the Fortuner’s practicality.

Under the hood lie three engine choices: a 3.0-liter or 2.5-liter CRDi diesel engine or a 2.7-liter VVT-i gasoline engine, all mated to 4-speed automatic transmissions. The biggest engine comes exclusively with a 4x4 drivetrain, and vice versa. I tested the P1,708,000 top-of-the-line 3-liter variant. Equipped with a variable nozzle turbocharger and intercooler, this state-of-the-art engine generates 163 ps and a strong 343 Nm of torque available from 1,400 to 3,200 rpm. With this amount of torque, the Fortuner can scoot in and out of traffic like a boy-racer compact sedan, its size notwithstanding, of course. It’s truly one quick truck.

The Fortuner’s suspension still employs an independent double-wishbone coil spring and stabilizer at the front and a four-link suspension with coil spring, rigid axle and lateral rod at the rear. The components may be the same, but Toyota addressed one of the biggest negatives of previous Fortuners: its stiff ride. I’m not sure how Toyota engineers fiddled with the suspension, but I suspect some tweaking with spring and damper rates to make the suspension more compliant. It’s definitely no Camry in riding smoothness, but I wouldn’t call the ride harsh or uncomfortable at all.

Safety features are generous and include ABS, dual airbags and Toyota’s Global Outstanding Assessment or GOA that puts a premium on passenger protection by employing a reinforced cabin, side-impact beams, head-impact protection, special crumple zones, collapsible steering column, and an anti-intrusion brake pedal.

The Good

• Macho styling (even after all these years)

• Spacious, versatile cabin

• Bulletproof Toyota reliability and economy

• Impressive comfort, convenience and safety features

• Impressive engine power (for the 3-liter diesel model)

• Previous stiff ride now appreciably more supple

The Bad

• Minor change a bit too minor

• Flagship variant a tad pricey

The Verdict

• Solidly among the best 7-seat SUVs on the market. Still a winner in anyone’s book.