Toyota launches facelifted Fortuner, Hilux

The world was once Toyota’s oyster, as boldly embodied in the Fortuner’s launch slogan, “The World Is Mine.”

Set to get its groove back, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) pulled out all the song and dance numbers it could muster for the launch of the facelifted Fortuner and Hilux commercial vehicles. The launch event coincided with TMP’s anniversary, which the company marked with a sales event at the NBC tent.

The 2011 Fortuner features a new grille, HID headlamps across the line, headlamp washers, redesigned fender trim, and new 17-inch alloy wheels. The Fortuner’s new bumper follows the styling cues of the Camry, while the grille is similar to that of its platform-mate, the Innova MPV, as well as that of the Avanza. The side turn signals migrate to the side mirrors. The new rear features the “Altezza” circular taillights on a bright background made popular by that Toyota/Lexus model.

There are still four variants of Fortuner: 4×2 2.5-liter diesel with manual or automatic transmission (AT), 4×2 2.7-liter gasoline with AT, and the top-of-the-line 4×4 3.0-liter with AT. The 2.5-liter diesel engine, contrary to our expectations, retains its 101-hp power, 260 Nm torque rating. The upgraded 2.5-liter that is available in the vehicle’s origin country of Thailand already outputs 144 hp and an identical 343 Nm. Local fuel quality was cited as an obstacle in bringing in the higher-spec engine. Also, an upgraded 2.5-liter would have cannibalized sales of the 3.0-liter, which would have had only a marginal advantage. Inside, the Fortuner features USB and Bluetooth connectivity for its audio unit. Starting price is P1,479,000 for the 4×2 diesel MT up to P1,741,000 for the 4×4 diesel AT.

The Hilux pickup also features a redesigned exterior. New front bumpers, front fenders, hood, radiator grille and headlamps are the main changes. New 17-inch alloy wheels are available for the top G variants. The Hilux is available in five variants: 4×2 2.5-liter diesel J, E and G variants, all with manual transmission; 4×4 3.0-liter manual; and 4×4 3.0-liter automatic. The 4×4 models feature a rear limited slip differential. Inside, the Hilux gets revised fabrics and plastic trim, and a new instrument cluster with multi-colored lighting. USB and Bluetooth connectivities are provided for the higher-grade variants. Hilux starts at P823,000 for the J model up to P1,464,000 for the 4×4 3.0 AT.

IMV (Innovative Multipurpose Vehicle—the Innova, Fortuner and Hilux vehicles) chief engineer Kaoru Hosakawa was on hand to cite the improvements made in the Fortuner and Hilux. He promised significantly improved riding comfort without sacrificing stability, durability and handling.

The Fortuner and Hilux are important products for TMP, having sold 64,000 units since the vehicles’ introduction in 2005 and 2004, respectively. With newer competitors bearing down on Toyota, the time was ripe for the update.