While most of the world is obsessed with crossovers, drivers in Australia and Asia still rather choose genuine SUVs, based on a body-on-frame platform. The reason is simple – they need a dependable and capable hauler, rather than a fancy-looking vehicle that only looks like an SUV. Therefore, it’s no wonder that Fortuner still marks pretty good sales numbers. The current generation has been around since 2015 and after the 2020 updates, we are pretty sure that the 2023 Toyota Fortuner will carry on without more important changes.
Therefore, you may count on familiar design characteristics. This SUV has so many great things to offer, starting from the reputation of being one of the most dependable models around. It is a fantastic off-roader, while the cabin design is pretty nice too. We like the turbodiesel engine, available in most markets, which offers a great balance between capability and efficiency.
Considering that there are no significant changes to come, we presume that the 2023 Toyota Fortuner won’t arrive before the last quarter of the year.
2023 Toyota Fortuner Design
Design-wise, we count on a familiar layout, which was introduced in 2015. The SUV features a typical BoF layout, which is no wonder, considering that it is based on the legendary Hilux. The two models share a lot of parts but the Fortuner is still a little bit more refined. This particularly refers to the suspension setup. This SUV features an independent rear suspension, compared to Hilux’s good old leaf springs. Still, this is still a pretty capable off-roader, which comes standard with a rear locking differential, while things like hill descent control are available.
Styling-wise, the SUV was updated a few years ago. We saw some subtle styling updates, along with the new Legender flagship trim, which features various exclusive styling details. The front end is notably different, with exclusive headlights and front bumper, while the rear bumper also features a unique design. Also, you may count on exclusive 20-inch wheels.
Interior
On the inside, you will find a familiar dashboard design, which is shared with the popular pickup. That’s not a bad thing at all, considering that Hilux has been praised for its very car-like cabin design. Although most materials are still hard to the touch, the cabin looks nice and refined. There is also a long list of standard and available tech and convenience features, which make this cabin look even more upscale.
The 2023 Toyota Fortuner will continue with three rows of seats. The first and the second row are very spacious and comfortable, while the front seats offer decent side support. On the other hand, the third row is very tight but that’s a typical thing for the segment.
Trim Levels
In Australia, this SUV is available in three trim levels. The base GX trim comes standard with things like an 8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, 4.2-inch driver information display, air conditioning, side steps, rear differential lock etc.
The mid-range GXL trim comes with chrome exterior details, leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters, keyless entry, navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, LED foglights, hill descent control, etc.
Finally, there is the Crusade trim, with standard features like a power tailgate, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, leather upholstery, 8-way adjustable driver seat, household-style 220V outlet, surround-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert etc.
2023 Toyota Fortuner Engines
The 2023 Toyota Fortuner will continue with various engine options on the offer. The Australian version is available with only one engine, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel. It puts out 150kW (204 horsepower) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The engine comes in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The same engine is available in other markets as well, but other markets are also characterized by additional powertrain options. For example, there is a 2.4-liter turbodiesel with 110kW (148hp) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.
In some markets, you can also find good-old gasoline units. There is a 2.7-liter inline-four with 165 horsepower, while you can also find a large 4.0-liter V6 in some markets. That one features a max output of 235 horsepower.
2023 Toyota Fortuner Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 Toyota Fortuner sometime in the last quarter of the year. The Australian versions currently start at around A$49,715. Key competitors are models like Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.