Catch the first sneak peek of the 2026 Toyota Fortuner, featuring a rugged new front, sleek LED lights, and a Prado-inspired cabin. Learn more now!
Exterior First Look
The next‑generation Toyota Fortuner was captured during a covert test run on Thailand’s open roads. The photos reveal a dramatically refreshed front end that borrows heavily from the new Hilux pickup – a tall, vertically‑oriented grille gives the SUV a muscular, angular stance. Sharper LED headlamps add a modern accent, while a slim, wrap‑around LED taillight strip runs across the rear, hinting at Toyota’s latest design language.
Side Profile – A Point of Contention
While the front and rear look noticeably avant‑garde, the side silhouette remains largely unchanged from the current model. This continuity may spark debate among enthusiasts, much as the redesign of the Hilux did when it first appeared.
Underlying Platform
The upcoming Fortuner stays on Toyota’s proven IMV (Innovative International Multi‑purpose Vehicle) ladder‑frame chassis, the same backbone that underpins the Hilux. The frame has been reinforced to accommodate a wider range of drivetrain options, including mild‑hybrid, hydrogen fuel‑cell, and fully electric powertrains.
Cabin Overhaul – Prado Inspiration
Inside, Toyota is set to break away from the Fortuner’s dated interior and adopt a layout inspired by the Land Cruiser Prado. A dual‑screen cockpit will feature two 12.3‑inch displays – one for the digital instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system. Expected premium appointments include electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, automatic climate control, wireless charging, a 360‑degree camera suite, and the latest ADAS safety package.
Powertrain Options
The model will retain familiar engine choices: a 2.7‑litre gasoline unit and a 2.8‑litre diesel. Both will be paired with a 48‑volt mild‑hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency and boost performance. Buyers can select either a six‑speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission, depending on market preferences.
Why the Update Matters
Since its 2016 launch, the Fortuner has not undergone a full redesign. With rivals such as the Ford Everest gaining ground, a comprehensive refresh slated for late‑2026 to early‑2027 is essential for Toyota to stay competitive in the global midsize SUV segment.
