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2016 Toyota Fortuner Review

 

Good points

  • Tough and durable build quality
  • Strong new diesel works well with manual
  • Classy interior shared with new HiLux

Needs work

  • Diesel bellows under acceleration
  • Navigation only on the top model
  • Third row eats up boot space
2016 Toyota Fortuner Crusade - Chasing Cars

Australians have totally embraced SUVs as the family car of choice. The car brands are responding to our massive appetite by expanding their SUV ranges to cover all the important niches. One of the hottest of these niches right now is the off-roading seven-seater. These cars aren’t new to Australia—we’ve bought ute-based trucks in the past. Think of models like the old Mitsubishi Challenger or Nissan Pathfinder.

However, it’s the new crop of ute-platformed wagons that are reinventing the segment. The Toyota Fortuner is one of them. This 4×4 is a seven-seater based on the new eighth-generation HiLux—the two models share engines, cabin elements, and off-roading kit. The Fortuner name has been popular in Asia for years—and in the face of stiff new competition, Toyota are banking on moving plenty of them down under.

So what’s the stiff new competition? Well, this class of four-wheel-drive is expanding at a canter. There’s the new Ford Everest, which is based on their Ranger ute platform. There’s the new, Triton-based Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. And the existing Isuzu MU-X continues to kick on, previously enjoying a near-monopoly on this hard-edged section of the SUV market.

All of these cars are being marketed as more driver- and family-friendly than ever before. In the past, cars like these were horrendously uncomfortable, with primitive suspension setups and bad interiors. Now, the Toyota Fortuner aims to lead this pack, with a refined new diesel motor, a slick six-speed manual, and car-like dynamics: all while retaining the impressive off-roading prowess that these cars aim for.

Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)
Budget Direct
Comprehensive cover
/ year
(indicative only)

Key specs (as tested)

Engine
Capacity
2.8L
Cylinders
4
Induction
Single turbocharger
Power
130kW @ 3400rpm
Torque
420Nm @ 1400-2600rpm
Configuration
Conventional
Power to weight ratio
62kW / tonne
Fuel
Fuel type
Diesel
Fuel capacity
80L
Consumption
7.8L/100km
Average Range
1026km
Drivetrain
Transmission
Manual
Drivetrain
Four wheel drive
Engine configuration
In-line
Gears
6
Dimensions
Length
4795mm
Width
1855mm
Height
1835mm
Unoccupied weight
2095kg
Cargo space seats up
654L
Cargo seats down
1080L

About Chasing cars

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Because we are powered by Budget Direct Insurance, we don’t receive advertising or sales revenue from car manufacturers.

We’re truly independent – giving you Australia’s best car reviews.

Terms and conditions

The estimate provided does not take into account your personal circumstances but is intended to give a general indication of the cost of insurance, in order to obtain a complete quote, please visit www.budgetdirect.com.au. Estimate includes 15%^ online discount.
^Conditions Apply

Budget Direct Insurance arranged by Auto & General Services Pty Ltd ACN 003 617 909(AGS) AFSL 241 411, for and on behalf of the insurer, Auto & General Insurance Company Limited(ABN 42 111 586 353, AFSL 285 571).Because we don’t know your financial needs, we can’t advise you if this insurance will suit you. You should consider your needs and the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision to buy insurance. Terms and conditions apply.

Indicative quote based on assumptions including postcode , 40 year old male with no offences, licence suspensions or claims in the last 5 years, a NCD Rating 1 and no younger drivers listed. White car, driven up to 10,000kms a year, unfinanced, with no modifications, factory options and/or non-standard accessories, private use only and garaged at night.

^Online Discounts Terms & Conditions
1. Discounts apply to the premium paid for a new Budget Direct Gold Comprehensive Car Insurance, Third Party Property Only or Third Party Property, Fire & Theft Insurance policy initiated online on or after 29 March 2017. Discounts do not apply to optional Roadside Assistance.
2. Discounts do not apply to any renewal offer of insurance.
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4. We reserve the right to change the offer without notice.