Toyota is set to expand its SUV lineup with the introduction of a smaller, more affordable version of the popular Fortuner, often referred to as the 'mini Fortuner.' This new SUV is expected to make its debut later this year, with sales starting in Thailand before potentially launching in India by 2025.
Based on the IMV Platform
The mini Fortuner will be based on Toyota's new IMV 0 ladder frame platform, which is designed to be more affordable while still maintaining the brand's standards for reliability and durability. This platform is an evolution of the IMV platform that underpins current Toyota bestsellers like the Fortuner, Hilux, and Innova. The new SUV will likely share some design elements and features with the Hilux Champ pickup, which is already on sale in Thailand and Indonesia.
Key Features of the Mini Fortuner
The mini Fortuner is expected to have a rugged appearance, borrowing retro design elements from the Hilux Champ, such as circular headlamps, C-shaped DRLs, and a rugged bumper with a prominent skid plate. The interior is anticipated to be similar to the Hilux Champ but with premium upgrades like a larger touchscreen infotainment system and a broader range of tech features.
Powertrain Options
The IMV 0 platform can accommodate diesel engines ranging from 2.4-litre to 2.8-litre, as well as the 2.7-litre petrol engine currently used in the Fortuner in India. This flexibility allows Toyota to cater to different market preferences and emissions standards.
India Launch Prospects
The mini Fortuner could fill a gap in Toyota's Indian lineup between the Innova Crysta and the Fortuner, offering a more accessible option for SUV buyers. With the Fortuner's on-road prices exceeding Rs 60 lakh in some locations, the mini Fortuner could be priced around the Rs 25 lakh range, making it a direct competitor to the Mahindra Scorpio N. This launch would align with Toyota's efforts to expand its SUV portfolio in India and provide an alternative to the cancelled C-SUV project, codenamed 340D.
The introduction of the mini Fortuner represents a strategic move by Toyota to capture a larger share of the SUV market by offering a more affordable yet still rugged and reliable option. With its potential launch in India, the mini Fortuner could become a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, challenging established models like the Mahindra Scorpio N.