Toyota Fortuner 5-speed auto review, test drive

Where the extra ratio really makes a difference is in everyday driving – the Fortuner feels more eager and faster thanbefore and the jerky throttle response of the earlier ’box is replaced by a more linear one. The engine feels morerelaxed, while the gearbox shifts up early and keeps the motor at more comfortable engine speeds. This also helpsthe 3.0-litre 168bhp motor’s characteristics – past 3200rpm, the engine sounds rough and power tapers off, and sothese early upshifts are welcome. The auto transmission feels more eager to downshift too and gearshifts, thoughsmoother than before, engage with a slight jolt. The Rexton, for example, has more seamless gearshifts.

 

The rest of the car remains the same. The build quality on the inside is solid but fails still to make you feel like you’re in a premium SUV. Space is ample with comfortable first two rows. The third row, with its knees-up seating posture, is good only for short drives. Despite its tall and heavy stance, this SUV handles quite decently and there is loads of grip from the wide 265-section tyres. However, when it comes to ride comfort, this car is disappointing. The Fortuner feels lumpy, especially at low speeds,and though it gets better as you go faster, it never feels settled.

 

Pretty much the same car but with improved drivability and performance, the new Fortuner with a five-speed automatic gearbox, is a better buy than before for the expensive Rs 22.33 lakh price tag.