You are probably asking yourself: didn’t we feature the Toyota Fortuner some way back already? Didn’t we already tell you about the refinement of its drivetrain and its frugality at the pump? We’re not going to lie; yes we did. However, what you’re looking at here is another variant. While everyone’s waiting in line for their diesel-fed 3.0V, we suggest that you sit back and consider the 2.7G—a model that deserves an equal amount of attention, for it’s just as good as the top-range model.
From the outside, it’s hard to tell the difference. Perhaps the biggest giveaway is the 2.7G’s lack of a hood scoop and the “2.7 VVTi” badge on the side. Those aside, it’s identical to the 3.0V—therefore the 2.7G looks whole, a styling homerun so to speak. Inside, the story’s the same with the Hilux-based dashboard and instrumentation. Again, what’s you’ll see in the 3.0V is also in the 2.7G. The beige scheme does wonders to uplift the cabin, but expect nightmares cleaning it up. The simple textures though mean that a can of Pledge and elbow grease can do wonders.
For those who have been living under a rock the past year, the Fortuner is fast becoming the family favorite thanks to its spacious interior and seven seating capacity. Sure enough, the first and second rows benefit from nice leg and shoulder room (the second row seats slide fore and aft too); while the third is adequate. Perhaps our only gripe is the lack of individual air vents for everyone.
The biggest change with the 3.0V and the 2.7G is what lies beneath the hood. Instead of the common rail turbo diesel engine, the 2.7G receives a 2.7-liter inline-4 gasoline engine with variable valve timing. The peculiar high-displacement, low-cylinder count configuration aside, the engine propels the Fortuner nicely in both city and highway environments. With 160 horsepower and 241 Nm available (the diesel has 163 horsepower and 343 Nm); acceleration was linear even when going up steep parking lots fully loaded. Like all other Toyota automatics, the Fortuner’s 4-speed box is smooth, transparent and responsive. Our fuel consumption during city driving was pretty good too, registering 7.28 km/L.
The pick-up based platform ensues a towering ride height and a commanding driving position. On the flipside, it also means that the Fortuner suffers from a bit of body lean (and a step up ingress/egress), but manages to go where it’s pointed without any drama. The brakes haul the 1,730 kilogram SUV from speed via a firm and responsive pedal. The 2.7G is also equipped with anti-lock brakes.
Perhaps the only kink in the Fortuner’s armor is its front seat support, which had us squirming after just a few minutes of driving and left us with a sore bum. Those accustomed to a sedan or a car-based SUV will not be satisfied with the Fortuner’s bumpy behavior either.
All in all, whether you pick the 3.0V or 2.7G, the Fortuner remains a winner. Despite its shortcomings such as the front seats and fussy ride; its family-friendly seating capacity, robust platform, fuel efficient engines and good value for money still make it hard to beat. If you don’t plan on crossing rivers any time soon, you won’t miss the lack of four-wheel drive. In the end, if you want to jump the Fortuner queue, get the relatively forgotten Fortuner 2.7G instead.
By Ulysses Ang | Photos By Ulysses Ang
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