Toyota Fortuner is soon going to get updated with a new platform and a new design globally. The next-generation Fortuner has been spied testing on the global turf for the first time. Read below what to expect from this upcoming rival of the Mitsubishi Pajero.
Moreover, you can also find the best used Toyota Fortuner cars at Cars24 UAE.
Also read: SOUEAST S08DM Hybrid 7-Seater SUV launched in the UAE with 800km range
What to expect from the next-gen Toyota Fortuner?
The next-gen Toyota Fortuner was recently spotted in Thailand, testing on the road for the first time. The leaked photos show a completely camouflaged test car that boasts a sharper and more modern silhouette than the current version.
Mind you, the last update that the Fortuner received was nearly a decade ago. Hence, the current model is nearing its lifecycle, which means that the new-gen Fortuner will have to offer a substantial improvement to make the upgrade worth it.
As per the online rumours, the new-gen Fortuner will be based on the tailored version of the IMV platform, which is also used on the 2026 Toyota Hilux globally. This new platform will accommodate petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and electric powertrains in the future.
The spy shots reveal that the new-gen model will feature an upright design on the front, which looks identical to the new-gen Hilux. Meanwhile, the rear design gets a squared-off outlook with the integrated spoiler and a new tailgate. The rear quarter glass is also bigger on the new model.
In terms of size, the new Fortuner will be slightly bigger than the current model. However, it will remain a 7-seater SUV, and it will come with the 4WD drivetrain as well.
Powering the new Fortuner will be the 2.7-litre petrol and the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engines. A 48V mild-hybrid option will also be available for the 2.8-litre diesel engine. All engine options will get the manual and automatic transmission options.
However, the UAE market is likely to retain its current 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine that offers 235 bhp of peak power.
We suspect that the interiors of the new-gen Fortuner will take a massive leap ahead. The cabin layout will feature a new stepped dashboard with a new three-spoke steering wheel, leather upholstery with soft-touch materials, and a digital driver console.
The seats are likely to be redesigned for more comfort, while the equipment list will include the floating toucschreen, wireless connectivity, wireless charging, seat ventilation and heating, sunroof, and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 autonomous safety features.
When will the new-gen Toyota Fortuner launch in the UAE?
As per our anticipation, the new Fortuner will be introduced in the global market early next year. It is expected to land in the UAE by mid-2027.
It will rival the new Mitsubishi Pajero, which is also likely to get a major update later this year. The new Mitsubishi Pajero will get an all-new chassis, a new design, and a bigger size.
With the new chassis, new cabin, and improved performance and efficiency, the prices of the next-gen Fortuner will definitely witness a hike. The current Fortuner is priced at AED 128,900-173,900.
Cars24 UAE says
The next-gen Toyota Fortuner will offer a substantial upgrade over the current model. It will undergo a complete overhaul in terms of design, cabin comfort and features, and safety. Powertrains are likely to be retained from the current version, but the efficiency will be more on the new Fortuner. We suspect it to launch in the UAE in 2027.
