Pros

  • Known for its strong and reliable engine, offering good off-road capabilities and towing capacity.
  • Ample space for passengers and luggage.
  • Quality Build: The Toyota Fortuner is often praised for its quality build and finishes.

Cons

  • Being based on a HiLux, the ride quality may not be as plush as some like
  • The infotainment system is much worse than the competition
  • Retain value very well, so there are very few bargains to be had

Verdict

There’s plenty to like about the Toyota Fortuner. It’s a robust, ute-based 7-seat SUV, with all the same off-road and towing capability of the Toyota HiLux on which it’s based.

The Toyota Fortuner offers a great blend of practicality and ability, but if you’re in the market for one, question...

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Publish: August 17, 2023

The Toyota Fortuner, available in Australia from 2015 to 2022, is a mid-sized SUV that has been a popular choice for both urban and off-road driving. Built on the same platform as the Toyota HiLux ute, the Fortuner was designed to offer ruggedness and comfort in equal measures.

Under the bonnet, the Fortuner was typically powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle produced around 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. This provided robust performance on various terrains, with its part-time four-wheel drive and low-range transfer case enhancing its off-road capabilities.

Fuel economy was another strong point, with the Fortuner achieving close to 8L/100km on a combined cycle. This made it an efficient choice for long drives and city commuting alike. Its seven-seat configuration and generous cargo space further cemented its position as a family-friendly vehicle.

Safety features were a highlight, with the Fortuner offering seven airbags, stability control, and in later models, Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. This added autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert to its arsenal, enhancing overall safety and driver convenience.

Throughout its life cycle, the Fortuner underwent several updates, both aesthetically and in terms of technology. This included improvements in interior quality, infotainment systems, and subtle exterior changes. Its coil-sprung live rear axle provided a stable ride, and the vehicle maintained its reputation for reliability.

In summary, the Toyota Fortuner remained a competitive choice in the Australian

The Toyota Fortuner, available in Australia from 2015 to 2022, is a mid-sized SUV that has been a popular choice for both urban and off-road driving. Built on the same platform as the Toyota HiLux ute, the Fortuner was designed to offer ruggedness and comfort in equal measures.

Under the bonnet, the Fortuner was typically powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle produced around 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. This provided robust performance on various terrains, with its part-time four-wheel drive and low-range transfer case enhancing its off-road capabilities.

Fuel economy was another strong point, with the Fortuner achieving close to 8L/100km on a combined cycle. This made it an efficient choice for long drives and city commuting alike. Its seven-seat configuration and generous cargo space further cemented its position as a family-friendly vehicle.

Safety features were a highlight, with the Fortuner offering seven airbags, stability control, and in later models, Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. This added autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert to its arsenal, enhancing overall safety and driver convenience.

Throughout its life cycle, the Fortuner underwent several updates, both aesthetically and in terms of technology. This included improvements in interior quality, infotainment systems, and subtle exterior changes. Its coil-sprung live rear axle provided a stable ride, and the vehicle maintained its reputation for reliability.

In summary, the Toyota Fortuner remained a competitive choice in the Australian market from 2015 to 2022, offering a combination of family-friendly features, genuine off-road abilities, and a strong focus on safety and efficiency. Its evolution over the years ensured that it stayed aligned with consumer demands, making it a popular SUV across the country.

The Toyota Fortuner, available in Australia from 2015 to 2022, is a mid-sized SUV that has been a popular choice for both urban and off-road driving. Built on the same platform as the Toyota HiLux ute, the Fortuner was designed to offer ruggedness and comfort in equal measures.

Under the bonnet, the Fortuner was typically powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle produced around 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. This provided robust performance on various terrains, with its part-time four-wheel drive and low-range transfer case enhancing its off-road capabilities.

Fuel economy was another strong point, with the Fortuner achieving close to 8L/100km on a combined cycle. This made it an efficient choice for long drives and city commuting alike. Its seven-seat configuration and generous cargo space further cemented its position as a family-friendly vehicle.

Safety features were a highlight, with the Fortuner offering seven airbags, stability control, and in later models, Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. This added autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert to its arsenal, enhancing overall safety and driver convenience.

Throughout its life cycle, the Fortuner underwent several updates, both aesthetically and in terms of technology. This included improvements in interior quality, infotainment systems, and subtle exterior changes. Its coil-sprung live rear axle provided a stable ride, and the vehicle maintained its reputation for reliability.

In summary, the Toyota Fortuner remained a competitive choice in the Australian market from 2015 to 2022, offering a combination of family-friendly features, genuine off-road abilities, and a strong focus on safety and efficiency. Its evolution over the years ensured that it stayed aligned with consumer demands, making it a popular SUV across the country.

Interior:

  • May owners have complained about the functionality and usability of the infotainment system. In general, Toyotas lag behind most of the competition when it comes to infotainment tech.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Fortuner often has a problem with its diesel particulate filter (DPF), leading to poor fuel economy, loss of power, and warning lights, particularly in models with diesel engines.
  • Transmission problems, particularly in automatic models, include a shuddering sensation during acceleration or shifting and a delay in shifting, possibly due to low fluid levels or a faulty torque converter.
  • Some owners have also complained about the transmissions
  • It can also suffer from oil leaks, faulty fuel injectors, and transmission fluid leaks, which if left unaddressed, can lead to serious problems such as engine or transmission failure.
  • The Fortuner may experience premature wear of shocks and struts in its suspension system, leading to symptoms like excessive bouncing and noise, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling and stability, posing potential safety concerns.
  • It may suffer from a malfunctioning variable flow control (VFC) system, leading to symptoms like rough idle, loss of power, and reduced fuel economy, which affects engine performance and reliability.

 

Recalls:

  • June 2018 – Toyota expanded a recall involving Prius, Corolla Sedan, Fortuner & Hilux models from February 2018 due to a defect in the airbag system’s IC chip insulation, which could lead to an open circuit; no affected units were reported in the original publication.
  • December 2020 – Faulty brake boosters in Toyota Hilux and Fortuner models from 2018 to 2020, affecting 23,957 units; potential loss of braking assist leading to increased stopping distance, posing risks of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Interior:

  • May owners have complained about the functionality and usability of the infotainment system. In general, Toyotas lag behind most of the competition when it comes to infotainment tech.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Fortuner often has a problem with its diesel particulate filter (DPF), leading to poor fuel economy, loss of power, and warning lights, particularly in models with diesel engines.
  • Transmission problems, particularly in automatic models, include a shuddering sensation during acceleration or shifting and a delay in shifting, possibly due to low fluid levels or a faulty torque converter.
  • Some owners have also complained about the transmissions
  • It can also suffer from oil leaks, faulty fuel injectors, and transmission fluid leaks, which if left unaddressed, can lead to serious problems such as engine or transmission failure.
  • The Fortuner may experience premature wear of shocks and struts in its suspension system, leading to symptoms like excessive bouncing and noise, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling and stability, posing potential safety concerns.
  • It may suffer from a malfunctioning variable flow control (VFC) system, leading to symptoms like rough idle, loss of power, and reduced fuel economy, which affects engine performance and reliability.

 

Recalls:

  • June 2018 – Toyota expanded a recall involving Prius, Corolla Sedan, Fortuner & Hilux models from February 2018 due to a defect in the airbag system’s IC chip insulation, which could lead to an open circuit; no affected units were reported in the original publication.
  • December 2020 – Faulty brake boosters in Toyota Hilux and Fortuner models from 2018 to 2020, affecting 23,957 units; potential loss of braking assist leading to increased stopping distance, posing risks of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Interior:

  • May owners have complained about the functionality and usability of the infotainment system. In general, Toyotas lag behind most of the competition when it comes to infotainment tech.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Fortuner often has a problem with its diesel particulate filter (DPF), leading to poor fuel economy, loss of power, and warning lights, particularly in models with diesel engines.
  • Transmission problems, particularly in automatic models, include a shuddering sensation during acceleration or shifting and a delay in shifting, possibly due to low fluid levels or a faulty torque converter.
  • Some owners have also complained about the transmissions
  • It can also suffer from oil leaks, faulty fuel injectors, and transmission fluid leaks, which if left unaddressed, can lead to serious problems such as engine or transmission failure.
  • The Fortuner may experience premature wear of shocks and struts in its suspension system, leading to symptoms like excessive bouncing and noise, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling and stability, posing potential safety concerns.
  • It may suffer from a malfunctioning variable flow control (VFC) system, leading to symptoms like rough idle, loss of power, and reduced fuel economy, which affects engine performance and reliability.

 

Recalls:

  • June 2018 – Toyota expanded a recall involving Prius, Corolla Sedan, Fortuner & Hilux models from February 2018 due to a defect in the airbag system’s IC chip insulation, which could lead to an open circuit; no affected units were reported in the original publication.
  • December 2020 – Faulty brake boosters in Toyota Hilux and Fortuner models from 2018 to 2020, affecting 23,957 units; potential loss of braking assist leading to increased stopping distance, posing risks of accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Body Styles

5 door Wagon

Engines

2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

130kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

150kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Torque

420Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

450Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

500Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Transmissions

6-speed Manual

6-speed Automatic

Fuel Consumption

7.6 – 8.6L / 100km

Length

4795mm (5 door Wagon)

Width

1855mm (5 door Wagon)

Height

1790 – 1835mm (5 door Wagon)

Wheelbase

2745 – 2750mm (5 door Wagon)

Tare Mass

2095 – 2130kg (5 door Wagon)

Kerb Weight

2110 – 2190kg (5 door Wagon)

Towing

750kg (unbraked), 3000kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 2800kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 3100kg (braked)

ANCAP Ratings

5 stars (tested 2015)

5 stars (tested 2019)

Warranty

3 years / 100000 km

5 years / unlimited km

Service Intervals

10,000 km / 6 months

Body Styles

5 door Wagon

Engines

2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

130kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

150kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Torque

420Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

450Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

500Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Transmissions

6-speed Manual

6-speed Automatic

Fuel Consumption

7.6 – 8.6L / 100km

Length

4795mm (5 door Wagon)

Width

1855mm (5 door Wagon)

Height

1790 – 1835mm (5 door Wagon)

Wheelbase

2745 – 2750mm (5 door Wagon)

Tare Mass

2095 – 2130kg (5 door Wagon)

Kerb Weight

2110 – 2190kg (5 door Wagon)

Towing

750kg (unbraked), 3000kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 2800kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 3100kg (braked)

ANCAP Ratings

5 stars (tested 2015)

5 stars (tested 2019)

Warranty

3 years / 100000 km

5 years / unlimited km

Service Intervals

10,000 km / 6 months

Body Styles

5 door Wagon

Engines

2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

130kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

150kW – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Torque

420Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

450Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

500Nm – 2.8 litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Transmissions

6-speed Manual

6-speed Automatic

Fuel Consumption

7.6 – 8.6L / 100km

Length

4795mm (5 door Wagon)

Width

1855mm (5 door Wagon)

Height

1790 – 1835mm (5 door Wagon)

Wheelbase

2745 – 2750mm (5 door Wagon)

Tare Mass

2095 – 2130kg (5 door Wagon)

Kerb Weight

2110 – 2190kg (5 door Wagon)

Towing

750kg (unbraked), 3000kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 2800kg (braked)

750kg (unbraked), 3100kg (braked)

ANCAP Ratings

5 stars (tested 2015)

5 stars (tested 2019)

Warranty

3 years / 100000 km

5 years / unlimited km

Service Intervals

10,000 km / 6 months

Warranty

3 years / 100000 km

5 years / unlimited km (from 2019)

Service Intervals

10,000 km / 6 months

Model range, pricing & features

Toyota Fortuner 2015-21

GX

Price when new: $42,590 - $49,990

Price used: $26,900 - $53,700

Standard features:

12V Socket(s) – Auxiliary
17″ Alloy Wheels
6 Speaker Stereo
ABS (Antilock Brakes)
Adjustable Steering Col. – Tilt & Reach
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning – Pollen Filter
Air Conditioning – Rear
Airbag – Driver
Airbag – Knee Driver
Airbag – Passenger
Airbags – Head for 1st Row Seats (Front)
Airbags – Head for 2nd Row Seats
Airbags – Head for 3rd Row Seats
Airbags – Side for 1st Row Occupants (Front)
Audio – Aux Input Socket (MP3/CD/Cassette)
Audio – Aux Input USB Socket
Audio – MP3 Decoder
Bluetooth System
Body Colour – Bumpers
Body Colour – Door Handles
Body Colour – Exterior Mirrors Partial
Bottle Holders – 1st Row
Bottle Holders – 2nd Row
Brake Assist
Brake Emergency Display – Hazard/Stoplights
CD Player
Camera – Rear Vision
Central Locking – Remote/Keyless
Chrome Door Handles – Interior
Coil Springs
Control – Electronic Stability
Control – Park Distance Rear
Control – Traction
Control – Trailer Sway
Cooled Compartment – Front
Cruise Control
Cup Holders – 1st Row
Cup Holders – 2nd Row
Diff lock(s)
Disc Brakes Front Ventilated
Disc Brakes Rear Ventilated
EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
Engine Immobiliser
Free Wheeling Hubs – Auto-locking
Handbrake – Fold Down
Headlamps – Halogen
Headlamps Automatic (light sensitive)
Hill Holder
Illuminated – Entry/Exit with Fade
Independent Front Suspension
Information Display – Drivetrain
Intermittent Wipers – Variable
Mudflaps – front
Mudflaps – rear
Multi-function Control Screen – Colour
Multi-function Steering Wheel
Parking Assist – Graphical Display
Power Door Mirrors
Power Steering – Speed Sensitive
Power Windows – Front & Rear
Rear Wiper/Washer
Remote Fuel Lid Release
Seat – Height Adjustable Driver
Seatback Pocket – Front Driver Seat
Seatback Pocket – Front Passenger Seat
Seatbelt – Adjustable Height 1st Row
Seatbelt – Load Limiters 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelt – Pretensioners 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelts – Lap/Sash for 7 seats
Seats – 2nd Row Split Fold
Seats – 3rd Row Split Fold
Side Steps
Spare Wheel – Full Size Steel
Spoiler – Rear Roof Mounted
Sports Seats – 1st Row (Front)
Storage Compartment – Centre Console 1st Row
Tail Lamps – LED
Trim – Cloth
Trip Computer
Voice Recognition

2017 update

Armrest – Front Centre (Shared)
Armrest – Rear Centre (Shared)
Internet Connectivity via Paired Device
Power Door Mirrors – Folding
Collision Mitigation – Forward (High speed)
Collision Mitigation – Forward (Low speed)
Collision Warning – Forward
Control – Pedestrian Avoidance with Braking
Cruise Control – Distance Control
Digital Instrument Display – Partial
Driving Mode – Selectable
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keeping – Active Assist
Speed Zone Reminder – Road Sign Recognition
Electronic Differential Lock
Headlamps – Electric Level Adjustment
Control – Park Distance Front
Daytime Running Lamps – LED
Grille – Black
Headlamps – LED
Power Steering – Variable Ratio (more lock faster)
Rear View Mirror – Manual Anti-Glare
Smart Device App Display/Control
Smart Device Integration – Android Auto
Smart Device Integration – Apple CarPlay
Collision Warning – VRU
USB Socket(s) – Charging

GXL

Price when new: $47,490 - $55,085

Price used: $30,100 - $59,400

Adds:

Alarm
Central Locking – Key Proximity
Chrome Door Handles – Exterior
Chrome Grille
Chrome Rear Garnish
Control – Hill Descent
Fog Lamps – Front
GPS (Satellite Navigation)
Keyless Start:- Key/FOB Proximity related
Leather Look – Gear Knob
Leather Look – Steering Wheel
Radio – Digital (DAB+)
Rear Windows – Extra Dark/Privacy
Roof Rails
Starter Button
Sunvisor – Vanity Mirror for Driver
Sunvisor – Vanity Mirror for Passenger

2017 update

Gear Shift Paddles behind steering Wheel
Air Cond. – Climate Control
Fog Lamps – Front LED
Air Cond. – Climate Control 2 Zone

Crusade

Price when new: $56,990 - $62,945

Price used: $34,700 - $67,700

Adds:

11 Speaker Stereo
18″ Alloy Wheels
Courtesy Lamps – in Doors Front
Courtesy Lamps – in Doors Rear
Electric Seats – 1st Row (Front)
Heated Seats – 1st Row
Illuminated Vanity Mirror for Front Passenger
Leather Look – Handbrake
Leather Seats – Partial
Power – Boot/Tailgate
Premium Sound System
Remote Boot/Hatch Release
Seat – Height Adjustable Passenger
Spare Wheel – Full Size Alloy Wheel
Woodgrain – Inserts

2017 update

Sunglass Holder
Electric Seat – Drivers
Electric Seat – Passenger
Rear View Mirror – Electric Anti Glare
Blind Spot Sensor
Camera – Front Vision
Camera – Side Vision
Warning – Rear Cross Traffic (when reversing)

There’s plenty to like about the Toyota Fortuner. It’s a robust, ute-based 7-seat SUV, with all the same off-road and towing capability of the Toyota HiLux on which it’s based.

The Toyota Fortuner offers a great blend of practicality and ability, but if you’re in the market for one, question whether you truly need a 7-seater of his kind. Similar to the Ford Everest, with its Ford Ranger-based origins, the ride is handling is compromised due to the ladder-frame chassis. So if you’re planning on pretty much only staying on the sealed stuff around town, you might be better off going for a more traditional 7-seat SUV.

That said, if you truly need a car like this for life’s adventures, the Toyota Fortuner has a lot going for it.

The diesel powertrain is not without it’s issues, most of which can be found in the majority of diesel powerplants. As well, be sure to inspect the Fortuner you’re looking at for signs it has been abused off-road or that it’s had any crap mods or accessories fitted. If it has been modded in any way, make sure those mods have been done professionally and are of a high standard.

There’s plenty to like about the Toyota Fortuner. It’s a robust, ute-based 7-seat SUV, with all the same off-road and towing capability of the Toyota HiLux on which it’s based.

The Toyota Fortuner offers a great blend of practicality and ability, but if you’re in the market for one, question whether you truly need a 7-seater of his kind. Similar to the Ford Everest, with its Ford Ranger-based origins, the ride is handling is compromised due to the ladder-frame chassis. So if you’re planning on pretty much only staying on the sealed stuff around town, you might be better off going for a more traditional 7-seat SUV.

That said, if you truly need a car like this for life’s adventures, the Toyota Fortuner has a lot going for it.

The diesel powertrain is not without it’s issues, most of which can be found in the majority of diesel powerplants. As well, be sure to inspect the Fortuner you’re looking at for signs it has been abused off-road or that it’s had any crap mods or accessories fitted. If it has been modded in any way, make sure those mods have been done professionally and are of a high standard.

There’s plenty to like about the Toyota Fortuner. It’s a robust, ute-based 7-seat SUV, with all the same off-road and towing capability of the Toyota HiLux on which it’s based.

The Toyota Fortuner offers a great blend of practicality and ability, but if you’re in the market for one, question whether you truly need a 7-seater of his kind. Similar to the Ford Everest, with its Ford Ranger-based origins, the ride is handling is compromised due to the ladder-frame chassis. So if you’re planning on pretty much only staying on the sealed stuff around town, you might be better off going for a more traditional 7-seat SUV.

That said, if you truly need a car like this for life’s adventures, the Toyota Fortuner has a lot going for it.

The diesel powertrain is not without it’s issues, most of which can be found in the majority of diesel powerplants. As well, be sure to inspect the Fortuner you’re looking at for signs it has been abused off-road or that it’s had any crap mods or accessories fitted. If it has been modded in any way, make sure those mods have been done professionally and are of a high standard.

Disclaimer

Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.

Information correct as of August 16, 2023.

The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

Read our full terms and conditions here.

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