While the new Fortuner gets a refreshed appearance and additional equipment, the IMV ladder-frame platform and core bodyshell will be retained
After launching the all-new 9th-gen Hilux earlier this year, Toyota is readying the new Fortuner. This will be a comprehensive facelift rather than a full generational update for the Fortuner. New Fortuner’s global debut is scheduled for December 1 in South Africa. Launch in India is expected in 2027. New Fortuner has been spotted again during road tests, this time in Argentina.
New Fortuner – Exterior updates
In Argentina and Brazil, the Fortuner is sold as the ‘SW4’. This legacy badge has been carried over from earlier Hilux-based SUVs in the region. Interestingly, for other South American markets like Chile, Colombia and Peru, the ‘Fortuner’ name is used. While names vary, the SUV is the same and all units are manufactured at the Zárate plant in Argentina. It’s near this plant that the latest test mule has been spotted.
In the South American market, the new-gen Hilux is yet to be introduced. It will be launched first, followed by the new Fortuner. Latest spy shots of the new Fortuner reveal sharper lighting elements and a mesh-style grille. These features are similar to that of the new Hilux sold globally, including India. More changes are expected across the front fascia of new Fortuner, although the finer details are not clear due to the camouflage.
New Fortuner appears to have a more upright stance and reworked air vents and front bumper. Side profile is expected to get relatively fewer updates, which could include a new design for the alloy wheels. Previous spy shots had revealed updates like revised taillamps, a connected LED light bar and a redesigned tailgate.
More premium equipment
Inside, the new Fortuner is expected to get updates like a redesigned steering wheel and new instrument cluster and infotainment system. Safety could be enhanced with new feature add-ons to the ADAS package. In addition to sharing equipment with the new-gen Hilux, a number of features could be borrowed from Tacoma. The latter is currently available only in North American markets, but there are plans to introduce it in Argentina and likely other South American markets as well.
At the time of new Fortuner’s launch in Argentina in 2027, it will be initially available in a single SRX variant. Other variants like the Diamond and GR-Sport will be introduced at a later date. In Argentina, Toyota Fortuner (SW4) takes on rivals like Ford Everest (imported from Thailand) and the Chevrolet Trailblazer, which is manufactured in Brazil. In India, Fortuner has rivals like Kia Sorento, Jeep Meridian, Volkswagen Tayron and Skoda Kodiaq.
Engine options
For the Indian market, the new Fortuner is expected to continue with the existing 2.8-litre diesel engine. The manual and automatic transmission options will be carried over. Considering the stricter emission norms, Toyota could also reintroduce a 2.7-litre petrol engine option with the new Fortuner.
