Discover the all-new 2026 Toyota Fortuner with a rugged boxy look, upgraded tech, and off‑road prowess. Read the full preview now!
First Glimpse in Thailand
After nearly a decade since its last major makeover, the brand‑new generation of the Toyota Fortuner was spotted undergoing its first road test in Thailand. The prototype, heavily camouflaged, gave away enough body cues to confirm that this isn’t just a simple facelift.
Boxy, Rugged Exterior
The silhouette is noticeably squarer and more muscular, especially at the rear where a vertical, upright tail gives the SUV an unmistakably robust presence. The tail lamps have been redesigned – they’re slimmer, sharper and appear more modern. A wider, reinforced rear bumper highlights the Fortuner’s traditional muscular character.
Updated Front Face
Even under the camouflage, the front end hints at a new design language: a larger, bolder grille, slim LED strip lights and sharper angles echo the styling of Toyota’s latest models. If these cues are correct, the 2026 Fortuner will look dramatically fresher than the current version that has been in production since 2015.
Ladder‑Frame Platform Remains
Toyota plans to retain the proven ladder‑frame chassis, but it will be an upgraded iteration of the IMV platform – the same architecture found in the new Toyota Hilux. This means the Fortuner will continue to boast the durability, off‑road capability and towing capacity that have made it a bestseller across Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Australia.
Powertrain Options
Engine choices are expected to stay familiar: a 2.7‑litre gasoline unit and a 2.8‑litre diesel, offered with either a manual or automatic gearbox depending on the market. However, with electrification gaining momentum, a mild‑hybrid 48V variant could appear to improve fuel efficiency and cut emissions.
Tech‑Heavy Interior
While interior photos are still scarce, leaks suggest a major tech upgrade. Expect a dual‑screen layout – a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3‑inch central infotainment display – and the latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense. Full‑suite ADAS features such as blind‑spot monitoring, lane‑keeping assist and adaptive cruise control could become standard, raising the cabin’s tech bar well above the current model.
Market Impact
The appearance of the test mule signals that a launch is imminent. As one of the top‑selling 7‑seat SUVs in Vietnam and many ASEAN markets, the refreshed Fortuner aims to regain its edge against rivals that are stepping up on technology and equipment. If the redesign and added tech materialise, the 2026 Fortuner will be more than a light update – it will be a comprehensive reinvention that blends modern styling with the rugged, body‑on‑frame DNA that earned it the nickname “king of the city off‑roader.”