Toyota Fortuner NeoDrive: What It Gets And What It Does Not!

Toyota recently launched a new mild-hybrid diesel powertrain for the Fortuner and Fortuner Legender, with prices starting from Rs 44.72 lakh (ex-showroom). The mild-hybrid version comes with improved range, and some new features as well. However, there is a key feature missing and an opportunity lost for Toyota to bring in some more desirable features. 

So read on if you are looking for a mild-hybrid diesel Fortuner…

More Range 

The mild hybrid version brings in a new 48-Volt system, which is paired with the reliable 2.8-litre diesel engine. With the mild hybrid system, the fuel-efficiency will see improvement, and in fact, its overall range has been increased by around 45 km. With the hybrid assist, it also gets better lower-end acceleration and will emit lower emissions while being a quieter operator. 

With the hybrid, it also gets the new Multi-Terrain Select that lets you customize your traction and drive modes, especially for off-road conditions. The Neo Drive Boost Assist feature provides enhanced acceleration when you need a bit of extra grunt. 

Furthermore, it also comes with idle start-stop which switches off the engine at idle. 

New Features That Are Useful! 

The Fortuner being a full-size SUV always needed a 360-degree camera, a feature that even the Toyota Glanza gets! But now, the SUV finally gets the camera system, making parking a much easier task. 

Another addition inside the cabin is a wireless phone charger which makes charging feel more seamless and convenient. 

A Big Compromise!

To accommodate the mild hybrid system’s DC-DC converter under the front seats, Toyota had to remove the ventilated seats feature. Now this feels like a big miss, because for Rs 50 lakh, you expect seat ventilation especially considering the fact that SUVs that cost half of the Fortuner get this feature. The dual-zone climate control takes the responsibility of keeping you and your family cool. 

An Opportunity Lost? 

The Fortuner has been given an update after a long time, and we were expecting it to finally get some more premium features that rivals offer and even cars from lower segments come with. A sunroof would have made a great addition inside the cabin, and the crowd-favourite feature would have definitely helped the SUV get some more buyers. 

Furthermore, a suite of ADAS features would have helped the driver, especially on well-marked highways where you would want to take the Fortuner. The more affordable Toyota Innova Hycross comes with ADAS, and giving it on the Fortuner wouldn’t have been a bad idea. 

ZigSays…

The Fortuner is going to sell in India, no matter what! Its rugged appearance and brilliant road presence gives the SUV a fan following of its own. Ok, it might not be the best equipped SUV, but its image and reliability factor is such that buyers end up ignoring its few cons. Moreover, its strong resale value makes up for its high initial price. 

Indians also buy the Fortuner for the way it drives, and with the mild-hybrid, one can expect a smoother experience and slightly better performance. 

What do you think about the Fortuner mild-hybrid diesel? Let us know in the comments section.