Fortuner is the flagship SUV for most markets. However, Toyota is not bringing this model to the USA. Why? First of all, this is a mid-size model. The Japanese company already offers Highlander and 4Runner in this category. The only thing the 2020 Toyota Fortuner could bring to the US is a diesel engine. Again, this would be a tough task and the carmaker is not so keen on this move. On the other hand, the Fortuner is using a ladder frame and the same platform as a Hilux truck. So, this could be a refresh for the new market, since this SUV is smaller than 4Runner, also being built on the BoF.
Well, the facelift for the rest of the world will make the 2020 Toyota Fortuner more aggressive. It will use similar solutions to the new Highlander, which will be redesigned in 2020. In some countries, we will find the Fortuner appearing as the 2020 Toyota SW4. This is the mid-cycle update of the second generation launched in 2015. The engine range stays the same. Well, we would like to see a hybrid drivetrain, but it is not going to happen for this vehicle whose main markets are Pacifica Asia, Australia, and South America (mostly Ecuador and Colombia).
2020 Toyota Fortuner New Model
According to various sources, the Japanese company is updating one of its best-selling SUVs worldwide. Well, the Rav4 is also in the mix, but it is a smaller crossover and the 2020 Toyota Fortuner is a model if you want the 4×4 adventure. The company will change the look of the SUV. Starting from the front fascia, we will see a larger grille and the new design of headlights. Also, the vehicle is getting new side skirts and a set of wheels. The standard offer includes 18-inch wheels. By purchasing upper trim levels, larger rims are unlocked for an upgrade.
The new model of 2020 Toyota Fortuner will also bring some cool upgrades, such as touchscreen display and leather seats. Of course, there are not standard for all versions and every market. Toyota recently added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to some of its models. As the flagship SUV, Fortuner could get these features in Australia and several other countries. The electric sunroof is a cool upgrade.
Engines and Specs
Drivetrain selection for the new 2020 Toyota Fortuner will depend on each market where the SUV is appearing. For example, we could see some units exclusively coming for Russian and Australian buyers. We still don’t know what will Toyota do next season, but some shuffling is going to happen. Just in case, we will mention all available engines for the upcoming Fortuner.
There are two petrol options. The smaller one is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder that produces 160 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque. More power comes from 4.0-liter V6 displacement. Some of the toughest SUVs in the USA are using this one. It produces 280 hp and 280 lb-ft of twist. You can pair it either with manual or automatic transmission. Both come with six gears.
Outside the US, diesel engines are more popular. That is the case with 2020 Toyota Fortuner which will use a total of four different configurations. The smallest one is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Its power output is 150 hp and it also produces 250 or 300 pound-feet of torque. A 2.8-liter displacement adds even more twist, returning 310 lb-ft with a manual transmission, or 330 pound-feet if you use an automatic. The 1KD-FTV is the engine that could find its way to the US market. A 3.0-liter displacement is capable to deliver 165 hp and 270 lb-ft. But, it uses only a five-speed automatic transmission. Another possible configuration of this engine offers 95 hp and 145 lb-ft as the naturally-aspirated unit.
There are also numerous other features the 2020 Toyota Fortuner is offering right now. The standard setup is sending power to 2WD. However, since the SUV is being heavily used for a ride through rough off-road conditions. A 4×4 is handling these situations better. What’s more, this system offers high and low range functions to boost the overall driving impression. Cruise control is coming standard for the 2020 season. The revisit will include some other upgrades for sure.
2020 Toyota Fortuner Release Date and Possible USA Appearance
As said, we don’t think the 2020 Toyota Fortuner is coming to the USA. Well, we won’t say never, since the SUV market is expanding fast and Toyota could need reinforcements in the major market. It would join Highlander and 4Runner as the mid-size model. Meanwhile, we expect to see the new model of the 2020 Toyota Fortuner in Australia, Thailand, India… After the facelift, the interest in the SUV should be pretty high, so the vehicle might appear at some big car show in this part of the world.
