Toyota’s Fortuner recently received a mid-cycle update as a new variant of the widely popular midsize SUV was launched. This is known as the Toyota Fortuner Legender 2021 model. This development was anticipated by people familiar with the automobile sector.
In its home market of Thailand, Toyota not only launched the long-awaited facelift version of its SUV Fortuner but also unveiled a Pick-up truck Hilux, for the year 2021.
Toyota’s Fortuner has been around since late 2004. The SUV jumped into its second generation in 2015; the new look was loved by auto-enthusiasts for its stylish exterior and lights.
Since 2015, this is Toyota Fortuner’s first facelift model after 5 years. Generally, the auto manufacturer introduces the facelift version after 3 years.
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Toyota Fortuner Legender 2021: Engine and performance
The 2021 Fortuner uses the higher-end 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine producing 201 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and 369 pound-feet (500 Newton-meters) of torque with the help of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). It represents a healthy increase of 27 hp (20 kW) and 37 lb-ft (50 Nm) over the model it replaces. It can now produce a maximum output power of 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
The fuel economy, however, won’t be affected, as per claims by Toyota. This engine up-gradation, although will produce more power, won’t consume as much fuel. In fact, it’ll save 17 per cent fuel while travelling within the city thanks to improved cooling.
India's favourite big, burly SUV, the Toyota Fortuner, has just received a facelift in Thailand. Along with a revamped fascia, the cabin gets quite a few updates too. Engine options incl. 2.4L or a 2.8L diesel with a 6-speed MT or AT. India launch expected in 2021 at Rs. 30L. pic.twitter.com/Nj0xMq9H7m
— PowerDrift (@PowerDrift) June 5, 2020
One other advantage the updated model has over its predecessor is the increased towing capacity, now at 3,100 kilograms (6,834 pounds) or 300 kg (661 lbs) more than before.
Toyota Fortuner’s 2.4-litre diesel turbo engine is still attached to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
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Exterior
The 2021 Toyota Fortuner Legender has a sleeker design. It comes with new, unique LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights (DRL’s) giving it a luxurious look. The Toyota Fortuner Legender also has LED sequential turn indicators, 20-inch alloy wheels and kick-activated tailgate, all of which are bits that aren’t available on the standard model.
Toyota Legender, also known to be the sportier version of Toyota Fortuner incorporates a split front radiator grille and the bumper that includes sequential LED turn-indicators with LED projector headlamps and 20-inch alloy wheels.
All in all, Thailand will be the first country which gets a sportier Legender version of Fortuner 2021 with modified bumpers at the front and rear, more standard equipment, a two-tone finish, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
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Interior
Inside the standard Fortuner facelift model 2021, the auto manufacturer has provided an improved and larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay. There is also a slight up gradation in the instrument cluster of the SUV.
The interior of both the vehicles looks the same but Legender comes with additional features:
- 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 11-speaker JBL sound system including subwoofer
- Wireless charger
- Ambient light
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Advanced safety system “Toyota Safety Sense”
- Cruise control
- Paddle shift
- 2-tone seats
- EC mirror
- Panoramic view mirror
- Kick activated back door
- Optitron meter
Price and availability
Toyota Thailand has started accepting orders for the facelifted Fortuner and will start delivering the mid-sized SUV later this month. However, for Legender fans there is some bad news; the high-end Legender will have to wait until August 2020.
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