Updated Toyota Fortuner SUV here in August

TOYOTA Australia has unveiled a mid-life update for its HiLux-based Fortuner SUV, with the large seven-seater now packing more punch, more tech, lower fuel economy and more towing capacity.

Debuting in tandem with its pick-up brethren, the new Fortuner maintains its basic body shape, including its signature high-hipped window-line but has been given an entirely new face, one that Toyota says better reflects its role “as a comfortable urban transporter and a rugged off-road explorer”.

Gone is the rounded and somewhat fussy looking nose, replaced by a more aggressive dual intake design with a narrow radiator grille and gaping lower intake not dissimilar to the one found on the Camry SX.

Flanking the upper grille is a new LED headlight arrangement cut into four segments by up-kicking daytime running lights providing a scowling impression.

Just like the HiLux on which it’s based, the Fortuner has been treated to a hefty power increase courtesy of “new and revised engine components” with peak power and torque now rated at 150kW and 500Nm (+20kW/50Nm).

Revisions and improvements to the cooling system in conjunction with the new engine components have also resulted in a noticeable improvement in fuel economy, with Toyota claiming an improvement of up to 17 per cent on the urban cycle.

A flow-on effect of the extra pulling power is a marked increase in braked towing capacity, up 300kg to 3100kg.

Aside from the changes made under the bonnet, the Fortuner has also been treated to a few enhancements in its cabin including a new 8.0-inch infotainment touch-screen (up from 7.0 inches) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as enhanced voice recognition.

Satellite navigation and digital radio also come as standard on the GXL and Crusader – both are optional extras on the entry-level GX.

Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the changes to Fortuner build on the premium quality expected in an off-road capable SUV.

“Customers will appreciate the extra performance from the high-torque engine, coupled with impressive fuel economy, smoothness and quietness - whether they’re on the school run or heading into the great outdoors,” he said.

Sales of the Fortuner have slipped so far this year ending May, down 35 per cent compared to the same period last year (933 vs 1436) with the big seven-seater only accounting for 2.9 per cent of the sub-$70,000 large SUV segment.