The Toyota Fortuner is a 7-seater SUV based on the underpinnings of the Hilux. 2019 Toyota Fortuner competes against the likes of Mazda CX-8, Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. There are 3 variants and prices start from RM 171,500 to RM 195,600.

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2019 Toyota Fortuner Gallery

Design

As the Fortuner is based on the Hilux, there are resemblance in the front half of the body with its tall and butch look. The rear looks sharper than its predecessor, almost Lexus-like.

Dimensions

Lighting

The entry 2.4 AT variant gets automatic halogen projector headlamps while the rest are Bi-LED projector units.

Wheels

Entry 2.4 AT variant wears 17-inch wheels, higher variants get 18-inch wheels.

Dashboard

Compared to the Hilux, the dashboard design is more symmetrical and the materials feel more premium.

Instrument cluster

There are 2 analog dials with white backlight and blue needles, a 4.2-inch TFT display in the middle. Fonts are simple, easy to read and the display’s resolution is acceptable.

Space and practicality

Despite its large exterior dimensions, the interior does not feel particularly spacious. Headroom in the rear is surprisingly limited while kneeroom is decent. Storage spaces are great; there's a cubby space on the dashboard and a glovebox. The third-row seats are able to fold to the sides to give a flat boot floor.

Boot

With all seats in place, boot space is at 200-litre, which is on the smaller side.

2019 Toyota Fortuner Specs and Features

Safety features

As standard, all variants get 7 airbags, stability and traction control, blind spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alert. SRZ and VRZ variants get Downhill Assist Control.

Comfort features

Higher variants get automatic air conditioner, cruise control, leather seats, and 8-ways power adjustable seat for the driver. The entry 2.5 AT variant gets manual air conditioner and manually adjusted fabric seats.

Infotainment

Entry variant gets a traditional CD player with MP3 support and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher variants get a 9-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Speaker count is at 6 for all variants.

Engine

There are 2 engine options available – a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine and a 2.7-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine.

Transmission

Both engines are paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission

Chassis

Body on frame chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front, 4-link coil spring at the rear.

Drivetrain

All variant are part-time 4WD.

Engine performance

The 2.4-litre diesel engine has a linear torque delivery and makes daily driving smoother and more effortless. The 2.7-litre petrol engine benefits from better refinement and power in the upper rev range, but not as torquey.

Transmission performance

Shifts are clean and precise. It responds reasonably quick to throttle inputs when power mode is selected.

Steering and handling

For its weight and height, it handles respectably for what it is. It does not lean excessively during high-speed bends and maintains composure in most situations.

Sound proofing

Cabin noise level is low, even at highway speeds. The diesel clatter fades at a cruise and tyre noise is very well subdued. Although like any tall-riding SUVs, wind noise makes itself heard at highway speeds.

Passenger comfort

Due to its ride height, the pendulum effect is rather apparent as passengers are more prone to motion sickness. Suspension pliancy is on the busier side, even more so with larger wheels. Seats are supportive for thighs and lumbar, which aids long-distance comfort.

Fuel Consumption

According to Toyota Company, the Toyota Fortuner owns a fuel economy around 10-litre / 100 km.

The Toyota Fortuner is a dependable 7-seater SUV with a tough ladder frame chassis that is advantageous in off-road situations. It would suit those in East Malaysia where SUVs are almost a necessity. And many are fond of its looks. 

However, rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-8 with their monocoque chassis provides better handling and comfort. Although they are not as capable off-road.