Toyota India Working On Mini Fortuner To Challenge Mahindra Thar Roxx And Scorpio-N
In response to the undeniable popularity of the Mahindra Scorpio and Thar ROXX, Toyota is developing a rugged 4×4 SUV to slot between the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and the Fortuner in its India lineup. This less-expensive, ‘mini Fortuner’ has been in the news for long. Many details of it have emerged over time. A recent scoop by Autocar India throws light into some key mechanical details of this vehicle.
Unlike the Fortuner’s body-on-frame setup, this SUV will be built on a new flexible monocoque platform that can accommodate various body styles and powertrains- says the publication. Interestingly, it may even differ from the existing TNGA framework used in the Innova Hycross. It was previously rumoured that the vehicle would use the IMV 0 platform (Hilux Champ chassis) used on the Hilux, Fortuner, and Innova. The new claims have dismissed this possibility.
Since the Ford Endeavour’s exit in 2020, Toyota has been enjoying a dominant monopoly in the full-size SUV segment. This has also made it confident enough to steadily increase the Fortuner prices, capitalizing on its own stellar reputation for reliability.
However, with the on-road prices touching Rs 60 lakh as we speak, even the most loyal fans have started to reconsider. This has led to a drop in monthly sales- from 3,698 units in January last year to 2,473 units this September. That’s a sizeable drop considering the segment it falls into.
With the Fortuner priced well out of the sub-40 lakh range, Mahindra has seized the opportunity to capture the market with models like the Scorpio-N and Thar Roxx. The Indian carmaker has packed its portfolio so well, that it’s already sealed the sub-40 lakh price gaps. Plus, the footfalls to these segments, are climbing each day.
Recognizing this shift, Toyota is now working on its budget-friendly mini Fortuner that would feature the brand’s renowned reliability along with off-road capabilities and a catchy price tag.
Expected Powertrains
This new monocoque SUV is expected to launch with a petrol-strong hybrid powertrain, with a potential all-electric variant coming sometime in the future. Although the exact powertrain details remain unclear, it’s likely to feature a hybrid setup similar to the Innova Hycross—a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid system. A diesel option seems to be off the table, for now.
Production of the Mini Fortuner (which rumours say would be called the FJ Cruiser) is anticipated to begin in 2027 at Toyota’s new plant in Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), making it one of the first models to roll out from there. With design cues reminiscent of a “mini-Fortuner”, a high ground clearance and rugged styling, this SUV aims to put up a strong fight against the ROXX and the Scorpio-N.
Expected Price
If things go well, this SUV could have a price tag in the range of 25.92 lakh to Rs 31.12 lakh, ex-showroom. The top-spec 4×4 variant will still sit a lot below the Fortuner. At present, the Fortuner has its prices in the range of 33.43- 51.45 lakh, ex-showroom.
Considering India’s increasing love for large, capable 4×4 SUVs, it seems very likely that a proper-priced mini-Fortuner finds success here. The Thar Roxx is already a huge success for Mahindra, despite being priced above 25 lakh. The spending capacity of Indian buyers has been on the rise. Our market has become too welcoming and favourable for a brand as big as Toyota to not have a presence in the segment.