5 reasons why the Toyota Fortuner might be the best midsize SUV

Here in the Philippines, the Toyota Fortuner is the most popular midsize SUV. This ladder-frame and seven-seater vehicle, which shares a platform with the Hilux and Innova, has been around since the early 2000s and has since become well-known. The second generation consistently leads the sales charts for both its segment and the whole Philippine automotive industry.

Surely the Toyota Fortuner has, well, made a fortune for Toyota for good reason. So, let’s take a look at why the Toyota Fortuner could be the best in its class.

Rock-Solid Reliability

No talk about Toyota vehicles is complete without the R-word. The 2023 Toyota Fortuner’s choice of engines and transmissions have proven bulletproof. These engines are diesel mills with displacements of 2.4 or 2.8 liters. The 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV is capable of producing 148 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, while the larger 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV is capable of producing 201 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, both of which are significantly more than before. All other trims of the midsize SUV will have a six-speed automatic transmission, thus there is only one model in the lineup with a six-speed manual transmission.

Robust Ride

The 2023 Toyota Fortuner may have decent statistics, but how do these translate on the road? The ride comfort of the 2023 Toyota Fortuner is tolerable on unreliable pavement and bumpy roads. The 2.4-liter diesel engine's performance is likewise excellent, offering sufficient torque at lower rev levels. The Fortuner's outstanding NVH insulation prevents much noise from entering the cabin, and the six-speed automated transmission likewise operates smoothly with barely audible gear shifts.

Impressive Equipment List

A ton of new technological features have been bestowed on the 2023 Toyota Fortuner, making it really contemporary and ready to compete with its class rivals. All versions come standard with a seven or eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system from Toyota that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Fortuner's top-tier trims come equipped with a nine-speaker JBL audio system to improve the listening experience. Apart from that, proximity sensors are a standard feature on all models, while higher models also come with wireless charging, USB ports, keyless entry with push-start, automated climate control, and cruise control.

Handsome Looks

The 2023 Toyota Fortuner's front fascia is sharpened by LED headlamps, and when it passes, the LED sequential turn signal lights at the rear make a statement. The top-spec Fortuner's exterior is further enhanced with 18-inch machine-cut alloy wheels, which are missing from the lower-end trims. The Fortuner's GR-S model features Toyota's Gazoo Racing Sport package, which gives it a sportier look and feel. To improve the SUV's aerodynamic profile, the model has diffusers and spoilers. The Toyota Fortuner GR-S versions include new black 18-inch wheels, bigger air dams on the bumpers, and a revised rear bumper with a faux diffuser.

Spacious Cabin

It’s the interior that makes the 2023 Toyota Fortuner sought-after, especially by families. Its interior has adequate space for seven people and cargo. There’s also style to accompany the function, too. Some Fortuner variations' leather interiors with maroon accents give the cabin extra depth and color. Ventilated front seats and Galaxy Black trim pieces are just two additional features and adornments that are exclusive to the top variants. Higher variants also come with a cooled compartment and even LED bulbs for the dome, map, and other auxiliary interior lights. Several of these characteristics are included in the Fortuner's GR-S version, but with a Gazoo Racing-Sport touch instead.

Photos from Toyota, Toyota Motor Philippines, and Roy Robles