New Toyota Fortuner Hybrid (MHEV) To Be Launched Next Month: Report
Toyota is finally gearing up for one of the most anticipated launches- the new Fortuner! Gaadiwaadi reports in an exclusive that the carmaker has already started commencing production and the market launch will happen next month. The new iteration of India's favourite SUV will have a lot to flaunt, including a heavily improved powertrain. Toyota is expected to introduce a new mild-hybrid diesel powertrain on the new SUV. The same is hoped to deliver better in terms of performance and fuel efficiency.
What To Expect?
Though we lack clarity on the specifics, the exterior design is also expected to evolve on the new Fortuner. We expect more of these details to surface closer to the launch. The interior too could come with notable upgrades. Both the equipment list and cabin layout could improve on the new model.
Many reports suggest that Toyota could introduce a new hybrid-specific instrument cluster on the new model. It will display the battery charge status, power flow meters and regeneration alerts to the driver. The Fortuner MHEV sold in South Africa already has this on offer. Another major change expected is the addition of an ADAS suite and a 360-degree camera.
The New Powertrain!
The biggest talking point of the new Fortuner will be its mild-hybrid powertrain. The setup will feature the familiar 2.8L four-cylinder GD series diesel engine mated to a 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) setup. Toyota already sells Fortuner MHEVs in international markets like South Africa and Australia. The Hilux pickup truck gets this powertrain in some markets.
The MHEV will have improved driveability and fuel efficiency. The 48V setup has three core components- a belt-integrated starter generator (ISG) that replaces the traditional alternator, a 48V lithium-ion battery pack and a DC-DC converter.
The inclusion of the mild-hybrid system would also improve the refinement and NVH levels of the powertrain. The new Fortuner is expected to be a lot smoother and calmer than what its predecessor used to be. The regenerative braking technology could help in charging the battery faster and in the long run. delivering torque boosts during acceleration.
Toyota says the fuel efficiency could improve by up to 10 percent compared to the regular diesel model. That's a big deal for a large SUV like the Fortuner. And even better? The off-road capabilities are still intact. Toyota has made sure that important components like the (hybrid's) battery are positioned safely to protect the vehicle's 700 mm water wading depth and rugged design.
4x4 With Idle Start-Stop Makes a Comeback
Interestingly, Toyota is also bringing back the idle start-stop system on the Fortuner's 4×4 variants. This was first introduced in 2021 but was later dropped. Now it returns as part of the mild-hybrid package, giving buyers a bit more fuel savings without changing the core performance.
Higher Price Tag Expected
The hybrid version of the Fortuner is expected to sit at the top of the price range. Official prices will be announced closer to launch. The MHEV version will likely cost more than the current standard diesel trims. Still, for many buyers, the improved fuel economy and extra features could justify the premium.
Upon launch, the new Fortuner will face strong competition from the outgoing MG Gloster and the upcoming Majestor.
Toyota's Hybrid Push in India Grows Stronger
This update fits perfectly into Toyota’s broader hybrid strategy in India. Models like the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Innova Hycross have already been doing well. Now, adding the Fortuner hybrid gives buyers a strong diesel-hybrid option in the premium SUV space.
With Maruti Suzuki continuing to support Toyota in product sharing and tech, we can expect more hybrid models in the future. For now, all eyes are on the Fortuner mild-hybrid, which could become a game-changer in the large SUV market.