Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid variant produces a combined power output of 220 PS and 565 Nm; enables better acceleration and fuel efficiency
The mild hybrid version of the Toyota Fortuner has been a topic of discussion among enthusiasts and is officially available in South Africa alongside the Hilux 48-volt mild hybrid variant which has been on sale for a few months now. No major exterior changes have been made barring the addition of the 48V emblem on the tailgate.
The Fortuner’s mild hybrid system works in tandem with the familiar 2.8L four-cylinder 1GD-FTV diesel engine which is good enough to produce a maximum power 204 PS and 500 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a 12-volt battery. The system features a 48V battery, an electric motor/generator and other critical components.
While the MHEV system in the Toyota Fortuner and Hilux may not achieve the same fuel savings as a fully-hybrid Camry or RAV4, it does contribute to improving overall fuel efficiency by 5 per cent and enhancing the smoothness of the diesel engine by approximately 6 to 10 per cent according to Toyota. The inclusion of a battery pack and electric motor add 16 PS and 65 Nm for a combined output of 220 PS and 565 Nm.
Additionally, the MHEV system includes an enhanced idling stop feature, providing faster throttle response from a stationary state and ensuring smoother engine restarts. Furthermore, the Fortuner 48V variant comes with Multi-Terrain Select, enabling drivers to efficiently manage driving stability across diverse terrain conditions.
With a waterproof 48V battery, this version of the Fortuner retains the capability to traverse through puddles to a depth of 700 mm, ensuring versatility and resilience in challenging environments. In South Africa, the 2024 Toyota Fortuner MHEV is equipped with all LED lighting system, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seat upholstery and dual zone automatic AC.
Other highlights are HD touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cruise control, six-speaker audio and 11-speaker JBL surround sound in top-end trims, seven airbags, Toyota Safety Sense suite, a 360-degree camera system, reverse parking camera, vehicle stability control, hill start assist and much more.
Available in a total of four variants, the full-size mild hybrid SUV is priced at R834 800 (Rs. 36.73 lakh) for 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT MHEV, R918 600 (Rs. 40.42 lakh) for 2.8 GD-6 4X4 6AT MHEV, R879 300 (Rs. 38.69 lakh) for 2.8 GD-6 RB VX 6AT MHEV and R961 800 (Rs. 42.32 lakh) for the top-spec 2.8 GD-6 4×4 VX 6AT MHEV trim.