The new generation Fortuner will share the premium chassis of the Lexus LX

The new generation Fortuner is expected to share its design with the Toyota Tacoma, using a new platform and an electrified powertrain.

The Toyota Fortuner is the most successful SUV in its segment, having dominated since the Ford Endeavour withdrew. Moving into its third generation, the new Fortuner is expected to be launched first in Thailand in the second half of this year.

The new Fortuner will be reinforced by Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, which is also used in the Innova Hycross, the Land Cruiser 300, the Tundra pickup truck, and the Lexus LX 500d. This chassis will make the Fortuner more versatile for both off-road and on-road driving.

In terms of exterior design, the new Fortuner will share design features with the Tacoma pickup truck, similar to the Hilux with a more muscular design, a high-set hood with muscular creases, larger headlights with Lexus LC500-inspired plastic details underneath, and a larger grille that exudes a lot of aggressiveness. The side profile shows square wheel arches with strong creases.

Contrary to the current model, the new SUV will feature more advanced technologies and equipment such as ADAS, a 360-degree camera, a panoramic sunroof, and many other features. Under the hood, the Fortuner is expected to be equipped with a new 2.4L four-cylinder turbocharged engine combined with a mild-hybrid system to provide improved fuel efficiency.

This information was released after Toyota introduced the first teaser images of the new Tacoma pickup truck for the North American market, which will use an entirely new chassis. The launch of the new Fortuner will also lead to changes in the Land Cruiser Prado.