Amid reports that Japanese auto-maker Toyota has put all investments in the Indian market on hold, a prototype of the new Fortuner has been spied upon while undergoing testing in the country, fuelling a fresh round of whispers about its launch.
It was being said that the Fortuner's launch in Indian market is at stake due to the ban on diesel vehicles in Delhi and NCR. Now Team BHP has shared what is probably the first set of images of the new Fortuner on test in India, which was spotted in Bangalore. The test mule of the new Fortuner is seen in a completely camouflaged avatar, thus not revealing any key details. But the sighting of the model on the Indian roads implies that the launch is on the cards.
The new Fortuner, which is already being sold in a few international markets like Thailand, South Africa and Australia SUV, is expected to be priced at about Rs. 28 lakh in India. In the international markets, the SUV is powered by 2.4-litre GD and 2.8-litre GD diesel engines. While the 2.4-litre 2GD-FTV diesel unit develops 148bhp and 400Nm of torque, the 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV unit churns out 175bhp and 450Nm of torque. The transmission is handled by a six-speed manual and automatic gearbox.
The Fortuner comes packed with features such as Bi-Xenon LED projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights, Traction Control (TRC) system, electrically adjustable driver seat, Down Hill Assist Control system, cruise control and reverse parking camera. It measures 4,795mm in length, 1,855mm in width, 1,835mm in height and 2,750mm in wheelbase.
The SUV will be manufactured at the company's plant in Karnataka. It will be pitted against the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Ford Endeavour when launched in India.
