Mini Toyota Fortuner: It was already being reported that Toyota is preparing an affordable model of the Fortuner SUV for developing markets. This mini Toyota Fortuner will be slightly smaller than the regular model and will debut in the global market by the end of this year. Its sale will start first in Thailand.
At last year’s Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota introduced the new ladder-frame based and ICE IMVO concept. Apart from this, the company has introduced an affordable lifestyle pickup Hilux Champ based on the IMVO platform in Thailand. Toyota Motor Asia Pacific President Hao Kwok Tien had told the media that a new SUV based on the IMVO platform could also come.
Design
The new mini Toyota Fortuner can be called Toyota FJ Cruiser, as this name has been patented by the company. It will be based on the same ladder-frame chassis on which the Hilux Champ has been built. IMVO is specifically a different edition of the IMV architecture.
The new SUV is likely to get styling elements from the current Fortuner with a boxy design. It can share many design details with the current Fortuner along with its 2750 mm wheelbase. This new SUV can be offered with 2 and 3-seating layouts.
Interior
The cabin layout of the new mini Toyota Fortuner can be similar to the Hilux Champ lifestyle pick-up. However, the SUV will get better fit and finish with better quality materials, a larger touchscreen infotainment unit, more premium touch and many new features.
Engine
The new SUV is likely to be offered with multiple engine options including diesel and petrol, it is expected to get 2.4-litre turbo diesel and 2.8-litre turbo diesel engines, while the petrol variant can get a 2.7-litre petrol engine. This engine is currently available in India with Innova Crysta and Fortuner.
Will the new mini Toyota Fortuner come to India?
Toyota is yet to make an official announcement on the launch of IMVO architecture based products in India. Toyota was planning to launch a new C-SUV to fill the gap between the Hyrider and Fortuner. However, this plan has been cancelled, but this new mini Fortuner can fill this gap.