Toyota Kirloskar Motors is possibly cashing on the popularity of its mass puller, the Fortuner SUV as it gears up to introduce an all-new facelift version of its Fortuner SUV in India. The possibility turned into a fact recently, as the facelift version of the Fortuner was spotted during its testing on the streets of Bangalore. Rumour mills are agog that the car would be rolled out on the Indian roads by 2012.
Taking into consideration the changes that may make their way to the facelift version of Fortuner, one can expect the power and engine to undergo minimum transformations. However, the 3 litre D-4D common rail, turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine, capable of churning out 170 hp power and 343 Nm of torque, could be equipped with a new 5-speed automatic transmission system.
If sources are to be believed, the assimilation of a new gearbox can be considered as a move to confront the likes of the Ford Endeavour SUV and the Chevrolet Captiva with much aplomb. According to sources, Toyota is also mulling upon bringing out a low cost two wheel drive version of the Fortuner, in a bid to intensify its sales, along with its current all-wheel drive model.
The exterior of the new facelift version would probably get a revamped pair of headlamps which seems to be brighter and larger than before. The same treatment has been given to the tail lamps that would be seen with larger dimensions and a revised design. The car would also have a redesigned grille, being increased in size and possessing more chrome, similar to the Land Cruiser and Prado models. In addition to this, the lifted front bumper will be the most noticeable change being carried out by the new Fortuner.
As a matter of fact, the Toyota Innova facelift, unveiled in Indonesia back in July, was also seen during its testing in Bangalore. The makeover has been done in the front, marked by sharp headlights, squared grille and a fresh bumper. On the mechanical front, it has the 2.5-litre diesel engine mated with the 5-speed manual gearbox.
Thus, Toyota has adopted an effective strategy to up the ante in the market and make the best use of its ace products. `
