The bestselling bakkie-based seven-seat Toyota Fortuner has now gained executive level within the SUV range of the Japanese manufacturer with the introduction of a VX flagship grade in the facelifted model range.
The VX suffix, as employed on the Toyota RAV4, Prado, and Land Cruiser 200, denotes the highest specification level on offer, and the refreshed front façade of the new range-topping 2.8 GD-6 VX has a gloss finish for its larger, blacked-out grille with mesh pattern, accompanied by a silver-accented skid-plate.
Other facelift changes include re-profiled Bi-LED headlamps with DRL light guides, LED fog lamps, and strip-like LED turn-signal elements (doubling up as additional puddle lights at night), and chrome accent strips bridging the grille and headlamp assemblies.
A key change is the shift to black interior trim with silver stitching, in line with customer preference. A new instrument cluster design with metallic-blue dial faces, white needle pointers, and a simple font is now employed, augmented by a bigger central Multi-Information Display. The VX models also receive seat heating, welcome lighting, and the Toyota Safety Sense system.
In line with the updated Hilux range, output of the 2.8 GD-6 engine has been boosted to 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque, and the six-speed auto transmission has been recalibrated to allow earlier lockup. Prices start from R556 800 for the 2.4 GD-6 RB 6MT with the 2.8 GD-6 RB VX 6AT available for R720 200, and its 4×4 derivative for R790 500.
