There’s something about Toyota’s Thailand facilities and an inability to keep secrets. Back before the new Hilux was released, we got countless leaked images and even a Thai-bound video spot finding its way to the internet.
Just yesterday we got wind of this: Spyshots of the new Toyota Fortuner, derived from the previously mentioned Hilux. This leak comes a few months ahead of its officially planned launch.
We can safely assume that the Fortuner will be powered by one of the Hilux’s purportedly incredible diesel units. There’s the 2.8-litre and the 2.4-litre which produce 177 bhp/450 Nm of torque and 160 bhp/400Nm of torque respectively. Both are impressive, considering how fuel efficient they are.
Like the Hilux, the Fortuner has its looks revised to keep it up to date with Toyota’s current sporty image. This means a lot more aggression and harder character lines. Over at the front we find a very large radiator grille, which in true Toyota style is finished in chrome. The rear end of the Fortuner is very similar to the one on the yet-to-be-released (in Malaysia) Toyota Harrier. Could we see this 7-seater introduced to our market before the Harrier? Only time will tell.
