Hey car enthusiasts and future SUV owners! Choosing your next car in India is a big decision, right? You think about your budget, how safe it is for your family, the monthly maintenance costs, what new features you get, and of course, the company's service network. Well, if you are looking for a powerful, reliable, and slightly more exclusive SUV, you have probably heard whispers about the new Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT. Today, we are taking a deep dive into this beast to help you make an informed choice.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 2.8L, 4-Cylinder, In-line, GD Turbo Diesel
• Maximum Power: 201 bhp (204 PS) at 3000-3400 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 500 Nm at 1600-2800 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Automatic with Sequential Shift and Paddle Shifters
• Drivetrain: Full-time 4x4 (Four-wheel Drive)

Design Overview

Exterior

The Fortuner GR S is not just a regular Fortuner; it is the sporty, more aggressive version tuned by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division. It gets a distinctive look with GR S specific front and rear bumpers, blacked-out grille elements, GR badging, and unique 18-inch machine-cut alloy wheels. The red brake calipers add a sporty touch, hinting at its performance DNA. It looks bolder and more assertive on the road, definitely standing out from the crowd.

Interior

Step inside, and you are greeted by an all-black interior theme with striking red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and gear lever. GR branding is tastefully integrated into the seats and push-start button. It feels premium and sporty, with carbon-fibre-like accents adding to the exclusive feel. The cabin is spacious, offering good comfort for all passengers, typical of a Fortuner.

Key Features

• Infotainment System: 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
• Audio System: Premium JBL 11-speaker system (on certain variants, confirm for GR S).
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control.
• Comfort: Ventilated front seats, power-adjustable driver and passenger seats.
• Convenience: Wireless charging, 360-degree camera system for easy parking, powered tailgate.
• Sunroof: Please note, the Toyota Fortuner, including the GR S, does not come with a sunroof.

What is the Ground Clearance of Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT?

• Ground Clearance: 225 mm

What is the Boot Space of Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT?

• Boot Space: 296 litres (with all three rows of seats in use), expandable significantly by folding down the second and third rows.

What are the Dimensions of Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT?

• Length: 4795 mm
• Width: 1855 mm
• Height: 1835 mm
• Wheelbase: 2745 mm

Powertrain Options

While the standard Toyota Fortuner in India also offers a 2.7L Petrol engine option, the Fortuner GR S is exclusively available with the powerful 2.8L Diesel engine paired with a 6-speed Automatic Transmission and a capable 4x4 drivetrain. This means you get the top-tier performance and off-road capability right out of the box with the GR S.

Safety Features

Toyota has always prioritized safety, and the Fortuner GR S continues this tradition with a host of active and passive safety features to keep you and your loved ones safe.

• 7 SRS Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
• Traction Control (TC)
• Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
• Downhill Assist Control (DAC)
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Impact-absorbing structure

NCAP Rating Table

The Fortuner's robust build quality is reflected in its strong safety ratings.

Rivals of Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT

In the competitive full-size SUV segment, the Fortuner GR S faces off against some formidable contenders:

• MG Gloster
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Jeep Meridian
• Isuzu MU-X

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Legendary Reliability & Durability: Toyota's unmatched reputation for building cars that last.
• Powerful Diesel Engine: The 2.8L engine offers robust performance for both city driving and highway cruising.
• Exceptional Off-Road Capability: With its strong 4x4 system, high ground clearance, and robust build, it can tackle almost any terrain.
• High Resale Value: Fortuners consistently hold their value better than most rivals.
• Imposing Road Presence: The GR S styling makes it even more of a head-turner.
• Extensive Service Network: Toyota has a widespread service network across India.

Cons:

• High Price Tag: The GR S variant is quite expensive, placing it in a premium segment.
• Stiff Ride Quality: The suspension can feel a bit firm, especially at lower speeds over broken roads, which might impact comfort for some.
• Missing Some Modern Features: Lacks a sunroof and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, which some rivals offer at this price point.
• Interior Design Could Be More Modern: While premium, some buyers might find the overall interior design a bit dated compared to more modern competitors.
• Turning Radius: Being a large SUV, it has a significant turning radius, making U-turns or tight parking spots a bit challenging.

Conclusion

The Toyota Fortuner GR S 4X4 Diesel AT is a statement SUV. It is not just about getting from point A to point B; it is about doing it with immense power, unwavering reliability, and an undeniable presence. If your priorities are rugged durability, supreme off-road prowess, a powerful diesel engine, and the peace of mind that comes with Toyota's legendary reliability and service, then the Fortuner GR S is definitely worth considering. Yes, it comes with a premium price tag and might miss out on a few fancy features found in its rivals, but what it offers is a no-nonsense, go-anywhere machine that truly lives up to its Fortuner legacy, now with an added dose of sporty flair. It is a fantastic choice for those who value performance, reliability, and capability above all else.