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These days, we are witnessing some kind of a revival of body-on-frame SUVs. At the time when crossovers dominate and classic SUVs are marginalized, something strange is happening on the U.S. market. As you probably know, the famous Bronco is coming back, as well as the Chevy TrailBlazer. Two mid-size SUV will revive the segment where you can currently find just a couple of models. So, Toyota decided to make its move. It looks like we are about to see the 2019 Toyota Fortuner, for the first time in North America. So far, this model was reserved for Australia, Asia, Russia, and a similar market. A rugged, Hilux-based SUV is now about to come to other parts of the world as well. Still, keep in mind that the new 2019 Toyota Fortuner USA is just a rumor at the moment and that we are still waiting for the official confirmation.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Redesign
When it comes to the 2019 Toyota Fortuner design, there are no secrets at the moment. This is a classic, body-on-frame SUV, which shares most of its parts with the legendary Hilux pickup truck. It rides on the same platform and features pretty much the same mechanics. Also, it comes with the same aesthetics, despite a different body style. The current generation in on the market for about three years, so the new North American version probably won’t receive bigger modifications, at least in terms of mechanics. On the other side, visual tweaks are quite possible, though you shouldn’t expect anything significant.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Styling
While the mechanical aspect is about to remain completely unchanged, we could easily see some visual modifications that would make this capable SUV more suitable to the U.S. market. Considering that the Fortuner features the same design as Hilux, there is no question about its reliability, off-road characteristics and overall quality. On the other side, visual updates would be welcome. The current model is present for about three years and a decent refresh would be nice. Basically, we could expect to see something similar to what the company did with the Hilux recently. This means a look that closely resembles the North American Tacoma, which in practice means a completely new face, with things like new headlights, grille, and much more.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Interior
This is another aspect where we could see lots of modifications. The current model features an interior layout that is pretty much the same as the one we can find in the Hilux. This means a dashboard that features plenty of quality materials and pretty straightforward styling. Materials may be durable, but many of them are actually nothing more than hi-quality hard plastics. This choice is reasonable for off-road vehicles, but North American drivers would probably prefer something more refined. So, the 2019 Toyota Fortuner should come with upgraded interior, which would feature more soft-touch materials, more style and, naturally, more standard equipment.
Speaking of the standard equipment, even the most basic models should come with a full load of standard features. Count on things like the latest infotainment system ran on a large touchscreen, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, smartphone integration, power-adjustable seats, power tailgate, and much more. Also, count on significant upgrades in terms of driver aids and safety features, compared to the model that Toyota sells overseas.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Engine
Another compartment that shouldn’t come with too many surprises. At the moment, this SUV comes with a plethora of engines in the offer, which seems natural, considering the fact that it is offered in many markets. Of course, the 2019 Toyota Fortuner USA model will put the focus on gasoline engines. So, count on a base 2.7-liter four-cylinder unit, which is good for about 160 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A large, super-durable and reliable V6 also seems like a certain thing. It is a 4.0-liter V6, which is good for about 278 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the company could add a more efficient, newer-generation V6, the one that powers the Tacoma. It is a 3.5-liter unit which is good for 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque.
Finally, expect to see a diesel version in the offer as well. Most likely, it will be the most refined 2.8-liter unit, which features a max output of 177 horses and 330 pound-feet of torque.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Competition
Though there aren’t too many body-on-frame mid-size SUV in North America, competition won’t be easy. The Bronco is coming back, as well as the TrailBlazer. Also, there is the famous Jeep Wrangler. Finally, Toyota already has 4Runner in the offer. This one is slightly bigger and more practical but still features a decade-old design.
2019 Toyota Fortuner Release Date and Price
We can’t say anything more precise about the 2019 Toyota Fortuner release date since this model still waits for the official confirmation for the U.S. market. On the other side, the new model would have to stick to somewhere around 30.000 dollars, if the company wants to have a competitive mid-size SUV in the offer.
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