3rd time lucky?

The interior is similar as before bar some updates to the trim and minor changes to the centre console. Everything in here works with typical Toyota quality and efficiency and the materials feel solid and robust enough. There is ample space for seven occupants and the rearmost seats are easily stacked away for more trunk space. Third row passengers will also enjoy the comfort of their own air-con vents in this tropical climate. The third row seats don’t really fold away but these Discovery 3 style side folding seats make way for load space by being folded up against either sides of the cabin.

One of the biggest draws of the Fortuner has always been its high commanding driving position that gives its driver a bird’s eye view of the road and terrain ahead. The Fortuner’s girth and height also means that it has an intimidating aura about it.

The Fortuner comes suitably equipped with electrically retractable wing mirrors, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, dual zone climate control, touchscreen stereo headunit with iPod compatibility, sat nav, reversing camera, twin front airbags and so on.

With this latest facelift, Toyota has managed to give the Fortuner a slightly more upmarket look that should go down well with buyers of such reasonably priced seven-seater SUVs. Underneath the skin though, the Fortuner does feel a tad long in the tooth.

Credits: Storyand Photos by Joe Yeo