Toyota has dedicated efforts, to developing a technology for its diesel engines, which recently materialized in the updated Hilux model in Europe. The Fortuner, the addition to this range now debuts with a 48V hybrid system in South Africa. This innovative step is expected to expand to markets soon demonstrating Toyota's commitment to environmentally friendly initiatives. The South African spec Fortuner shares a resemblance to the India spec Legender model with tweaks to both its exterior and interior design along with an expanded palette of color choices exclusive to the South African version.
The Toyota Fortuner hybrid version is powered by a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine that incorporates a 48V battery and an electric starter generator for an added power boost of 16 bhp and 42 Nm of torque. This enhancement bolsters the SUV's performance capabilities while maintaining its existing power output of 201 bhp and peak torque of 500 Nm. The African variant comes standard with a 6-speed torque converter transmission available, in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive setups.
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Apart, from making the car run better Toyota is highlighting the fuel efficiency of the mild hybrid system claiming a 5% boost in fuel economy compared to the standard model. The diesel Fortuner usually achieves around 14 kmpl in terms of fuel efficiency. In addition, Toyota has introduced functions like engine idle start/stop to make sure the car uses fuel efficiently and responds better when you step on the gas pedal resulting in a smoother restart process for the engine.
Moreover, Toyota has added safety features to the Fortuner by including things like a 360-degree camera system and their advanced safety suite called Toyota Safety Sense ADAS. This safety package includes technologies such as cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning—all aimed at keeping drivers and passengers safe while driving.
Although there's no information from Toyota about when they will launch the mild hybrid in India experts in the industry believe it will happen soon in the Indian market. With a focus on reducing diesel emissions and being conscious of growing every day introducing this eco-friendly Fortuner version aligns with Toyota's goals for sustainability. Fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Fortuner mild hybrid in India this year as it promises to offer performance along, with better fuel efficiency.
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