#10YearChallenge - Toyota Fortuner 2010 vs 2020

When it first launched back in 2004 as Toyota’s newest SUV offering, the Fortuner became an instant hit. The latest addition to what is now the automaker’s notable Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle lineup — which also includes the Innova and Hilux — the Fortuner immediately became a household name and set a standard in the SUV segment.

The second generation came out in 2016, quickly becoming the best-selling SUV in the Philippines and establishing its status as a top vehicle in the auto industry itself.

Today, it is still a widely loved vehicle with sales positioning as a market leader in the Philippines. The Fortuner is best known for its rugged character. Despite rarely receiving upgrades from Toyota (with facelifts going back 2011 and 2015) the Fortuner has maintained its reputation for being a reliable vehicle regardless of what generation model.

After almost 15 years in production, we took a look at the 2010 Fortuner and see how it fares against the latest 2020 second-generation model.

Engine

The 2010 came out with a 2.5-liter diesel engine capable of generating 173 hp @ 3,600 rpm and 343 Nm of torque @ 1,400-3,400 rpm. At the time, the only manual transmission was available. Later versions eventually offered a 2.7-liter variant.

The latest 2020 version still offers a 2.4-liter diesel engine for its entry-level variants. However, its latest engine technology is a 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV which is equipped with Dual-VVTI. This is capable of generating 174 hp and 450 mm of torque.

Two more options are also available: a 2.7 2TR-FE gasoline engine that generates 163 hp and 245 Nm of torque, which was also offered for the previous models; and a 2.4L 2GD-FTV that generates 147 hp with 400 Nm of torque. These can be mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with sequential shift.

Exterior and Interior

The Fortuner received a facelift back in 2009 and retained its design until its next facelift in 2012. The 2010 model was a ‘masculine’ vehicle, incorporating boxier-shaped lights and grille. Toyota also added more premium finishes inside such as a beige, reddish-wood grain trim plus new steering-wheel audio controls.

The 2020 Fortuner is a far cry from its rugged appearance from previous models. While still maintaining its tough image, Toyota added premium touches to the Fortuner — making it a more stylish and sleek vehicle. Compared to its stocky predecessors, angled lines were added to the vehicle’s side to give it that subdued sleek look. Higher variants also include special features such as Bi-beam LED lights and DRL sets.

Being a flagship vehicle, the Fortuner is also one of Toyota’s models that have premium interiors. Inside the vehicle, one can find wood accents on areas like the trim and the steering wheel which tie in together with the leather seats.

Tech and safety

The 2010 model obviously does not have the abundance of tech and safety features found on most vehicles today. This includes features such as traction control, Isofix child-seat mounts, fold-flat rear seats, and push-button ignition. However, it is equipped with parking sensors and a rudimentary eco display built into the console.

2020 Toyota Fortuner specs sheet includes Toyota’s Display Audio system which is equipped with AUX, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity options. There is also a 6.75 TFT LCD touch screen display on the dashboard and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It is also equipped with a number of tech and safety features such as keyless entry with push-start, rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, cruise control, and hill start assist. The high-end variants also included a power liftgate.

Verdict

The 2010 model was priced at P1,680,000 when it first came out. Today, you can still purchase it at a decreased price of P1,025,000. The 2020 Toyota Fortuner price starts at P1,061,000 for the base-variant while the high-end variant is priced at a heavy P2,026,000.

However, despite being a far cry from its predecessors, the Toyota Fortuner continues to build on its reputation from when first gained popularity for its rugged and durable qualities. The Toyota Fortuner is definitely still a goodie ten years down the road, and we’re sure there’s still more in store for the succeeding releases.

What do you think about the old and new Toyota Fortuner? Share with us your thoughts on our social media.

Also read: Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. Toyota Fortuner - The better 7-seater SUV