2017 Toyota Fortuner Review

Detailed Review

Since its inception, the Toyota Fortuner has undergone two phases where the first generation was in production from 2004- 2014, and the second generation has been in production from 2015 to present. The first generation was almost a copy and paste of the Toyota Hilux as the second generation looks trendier and more aggressive.

Toyota Fortuner is built on an IMV (Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle) platform whereby cars like the Toyota Hilux, Toyota Prado, and Toyota Innova can share various components especially in markets that demand 4×4 capability and efficient fuel economy.
Toyota Fortuner comes with an option of 7 engines which include;
Petrol
1. 2.7 L 2TR-FE Engine
2. 4.0 L 1GR-FE Engine
Diesel
1. 2.4 L 2GD-FTV Engine
2. 2.5 L 2KD-FTV Engine
3. 2.8 L 1GD-FTV Engine
4. 3.0 L 5L-E 14 Engine
5. 3.0 L 1KD- FTV Engine
The engines are linked to either 5 or 6 speed manual and automatic transmission. Click here to purchase a copy of the Toyota Fortuner Buyer’s Guide.

2017 Toyota Fortuner Grades

1. 2017 Toyota Fortuner GX – This is the base grade that comes with 17-Inch steel rims, dot-type MID, projector halogen Headlights, six way adjustable driver’s seat, brown fabric seat trim and power windows with driver auto.
2. 2017 Toyota Fortuner GXL – This adds 17-Inch alloy rims, paddle shifters, Downhill Assist Control, rear parking sensors, 4.2-Inch color MID, keyless smart entry, premium steering wheel, roof rails, fog lights, privacy glass, chrome trim, power windows all auto and meter illumination control.
3. Toyota Fortuner Crusade – This is the luxury grade that adds 18-Inch alloy rims, auto air conditioning, satellite navigation, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, Projector LED headlights, auto headlight levelling, LED daytime running lights, leather accented seats and woodgrain finish.

 Interior Legroom & Space
The first and the second row has ample space with a good legroom, kneeroom, and shoulder room which makes it quite comfortable for taller passengers. The third row sits are a tight fit for adult passengers especially when travelling in a long distance because there is limited space for headroom.

Cabin Storage
There are several storage compartments in the cabin that can be used to hold or store various items like mobile phones and water bottles. The first row has a cooled compartment, dual glove box, two bottle holders and cup holders near the center console. The second row also has four cup holders in the armrest compartment and door panels, and two cup holders in the third row.

Boot Space
The Toyota Fortuner offers a boot space of 10.4531 Cubic Feet which is adequate to carry small and medium sized luggage. The second and third row seats can be folded if extra space is needed.

Exterior
The 2017 Toyota Fortuner features a sleek exterior design with wraparound headlights, a massive chrome grille, and a strongly sculpted bumper with integrated fog lights. The clean and towering design is revealed in the side view. There are new gleaming alloy wheels that lend a luxury touch.

2017 Toyota Fortuner Safety Measures: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control system, brake assist, trailer sway control, hill descent control, hill hold assist, and vehicle stability control.

2017 Toyota Fortuner Fuel Consumption

2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.7L petrol engine fuel consumption- 11.2km/l on average
2017 Toyota Fortuner 4.0 L petrol engine fuel consumption- 8.7km/l on average
2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.5 L diesel engine fuel consumption- 14.8km/l on average
2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 L diesel engine fuel consumption- 12.0km/l on average

2017 Toyota Fortuner Acceleration
2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.7L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 13.0 secs

2017 Toyota Fortuner 4.0L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.8 secs

2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.5 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.3 secs

2017 Toyota Fortuner 2.8L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.0 secs

Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 Litres

Ground Clearance: The 2017 Toyota Fortuner has a ground clearance of 8.8 Inches.

Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Diesel Filter and Engine Oil, etc.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Diesel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Front Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil, etc.

Spare Parts Availability
Service parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya. Body parts are expensive and available from major Toyota dealerships in Kenya.

Stability & Handling
The 2017 Toyota Fortuner offers a comfortable ride thanks to its double wishbone (front) and 4- link (rear) suspension system which makes it move swiftly on and off- road. The steering wheel may feel a bit heavier at low speed but that changes as you increase momentum.
For driving on the highway, the 2017 Toyota Fortuner is very stable because of its weight and size. Additionally, the 2017 Fortuner is equipped with Anti- lock Braking System (ABS) whose main purpose is to prevent skidding where loss of steering and control result from locked wheels when braking hard. It also has Automatic Brake Differential (ABD) which applies braking power to any individual wheel that may be slipping during acceleration in order to maintain grip on the road.

Reliability
The 2017 Toyota Fortuner is regarded as a reliable SUV for it is made of high-quality materials and is designed to survive harsh environments hence making it a popular choice for many individuals. However, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) sometimes malfunctions thus leading to reduced engine perfomance as reported by some users. Regular maintenance and service can help to mitigate problems caused by DPF failure. The Fortuner also has a tendency of burning oil especially on petrol engines.

Click here to purchase the Toyota Fortuner Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Fortuner Competitors: Ford Everest, Isuzu MUX, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

What we like about the 2017 Toyota Fortuner

• Availability of third tow seats
• Good off- road capability

What we don’t

• Sensitive diesel engine

Conclusion
The Toyota Fortuner is a reliable SUV with off-road capability and high towing capacity. Folks with a big household will find it ideal because of the availability of the third- row seat. People residing in Metropolis will find it attractive for commuting due to is sumptous exterior. However, individuals on a tight budget may not be in a position to purchase it due to its high acquisition price. Click here to download the 2017 Toyota Fortuner Owner’s Manual.