So, why does the Toyota Fortuner get the image of a 'bad boy' on Indian roads?
In India, the Toyota Fortuner has earned a reputation as the vehicle of choice for a certain type of driver — one that's linked with aggressive driving, road intimidation and the 'might is right' attitude. It's such an image that many road users feel uneasy when they see a Fortuner in their rearview mirror. This perception of the SUV's size, its high ground clearance and powerful headlights makes the vehicle an imposing one. The popularity with politicians, businessmen, and all manner of important people has continued to cement it as a symbol of power and authority of another sort. This has earned this reputation both admiration and resentment from a section of society. Some want a Fortuner for the status it carries, and others accuse it of being a symbol of road bullying. But is this picture justified? Or is it an unfair stereotype? How much of this reputation is from the car itself and how much is from the people who buy it?
The car is not the problem, it's the drivers. I have met with a lot of Fortuner owners who have been respectful. Because the car's so big, people just notice the bad ones more.
It’s totally justified. I’ve come to know that every time I see a Fortuner in my rearview mirror that I’m about to get tailgated or cut off. And it is like an unwritten rule for them.
I think it has to do with the size of the car and the kind of people who can afford it. And it attracts those who want to display their status and power on the road.
I am a Fortuner owner and I hate this stereotype. I drive responsibly but I’m judged all the time for my car choice. To generalize all owners isn't fair.
Some buyers like the "bad boy" image. That road presence and the feeling of power is what they want. Toyota's not exactly not discouraging it with their marketing either.
This has become a self fulfilling prophecy. Aggressive drivers are attracted to the reputation, which reinforces the stereotype, and so on.
I think it's more that the vehicle has the capabilities. If you are normally a calm driver, it is easy to get tempted to use that much power and size.
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Discussions and Questions So Why Does The Toyota Fortuner Get The Image Of A Bad Boy On Indian Roads
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