Toyota Fortuner

• The powertrain consists of multiple options, and you can choose between a 2.7-litre petrol 4-cylinder, which has a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.4-litre turbo diesel option, and its low-end torque, is genuinely useful for loaded driving and off-road pulling. The diesel feels more responsive in real-world scenarios than horsepower figures suggest.
• If you prefer power, the 4.0-litre V6 petrol comes with solid figures, 235hp of power and 376 Nm of torque. It is quick, and the acceleration is noticeable. You feel the difference when merging or passing. The transmission is a smooth 6-speed automatic across all engines. Shifts are seamless. The transmission stays out of your way and just works. It's not attempting to entertain; it is truly reliable.
• Ground clearance is 225 mm, most suitable for serious off-roading. The wheelbase is 2,750 mm, contributing to stable highway behaviour.
• Part-time 4WD with a transfer case is available on most trims. This means genuine low-range gearing for crawling through serious terrain. It's not electronic but mechanical traction control. When needed, it works; if it doesn’t, then you get to drive on 2WD for better fuel economy. The newer diesel models include drive-mode select for different terrain types.

Some honest limitations

• The Fortuner is huge and parking is challenging.

• The truck-based platform means body roll in corners, and you are not necessarily getting refined city car manners.

• This is engineered for capability, not comfort. Highway refinement is decent, but it can't match car-based SUVs.

• Engine noise is noticeable. Ride quality on rough surfaces is firm, not cushioned. That's expected when focusing on durability and payload capacity.

• On highways, the suspension is compliant. Small imperfections disappear. The ride is settled at steady speeds. Long drives are manageable without excessive fatigue. The truck-based platform and independent front suspension balance comfort with capability.

• Steering is responsive but not engaging. For highway cruising and parking, that's appropriate. The steering requires physical effort, giving you awareness of inputs.

• Body roll in corners is obvious as the Fortuner leans in curves, as expected for a body-on-frame SUV. It never feels unstable, but you are always aware of the mass. The grip is adequate for normal driving. Push hard, and limits become apparent, but normal driving never reveals those limits.

• Off-road capability is real, a USP of this SUV. Sand driving, rocky terrain, steep climbs, the Fortuner handles these confidently. Not a specialised rock crawler, but genuinely capable. Trail-rated performance is proven in Saudi desert conditions.

• Visibility is commanding due to the high seating position. Parking is straightforward despite the size. You can see where the vehicle ends.

• Noise isolation is respectable for the SUV; the engine noise is present but not excessive. Diesel engines have their characteristic of higher noise, particularly under acceleration. At cruise, the cabin quiets down. Wind and road noise are controlled well.

• The suspension is firm over severe speed bumps and rough surfaces. That's a trade-off for ruggedness and payload capacity. The ride can feel jolty over washboard surfaces, but that's an engineering choice, not a flaw.

• The 8-inch Connected Display Audio with Apple CarPlay is standard; it is responsive and intuitive, including DAB digital radio. The system is not the most advanced or fancy, but it works just fine, quite reliably. Bluetooth integration is seamless, and USB charging ports on higher trims keep devices powered.
• Climate control is manual on base trims, automatic on higher variants. Rear cooling vents keep passengers comfortable. The AC system is powerful, handling Saudi heat effectively. Front and rear climate zones on upper trims allow different temperature settings.
• Seating is fabric on base models, premium leather on higher trims like the VX grades. The material quality is functional and durable, not luxury-focused. Seats are supportive for long drives. The seven-seat configuration means rear passengers get their own dedicated space, not squeezed afterthoughts.
• The steering wheel on upper trims is leather-wrapped with wood grain and paddle shifters. It adds a touch of refinement without feeling forced. Functional audio and display controls are intuitive.
• Storage is genuinely practical. Large console box, cup holders for the driver and passenger. Multiple door pockets. Rear under-seat storage on some configurations. This is engineered for real-world living, not presentation.
• The seven-seat configuration is genuinely something families prefer. The third-row passengers have actual legroom. The 60/40 split-fold rear seats provide cargo flexibility. The second and third rows fold completely, creating massive cargo space whenever you need. This practicality is the Fortuner's strength.
• LED headlamps with auto-levelling provide excellent visibility. The front design is bold and purposeful, not trendy.

Overall, the interior feels useful and reliable. That's intentional as the Japanese automaker is focused on durability and functionality rather than luxury perception. For buyers who understand the Fortuner's purpose, that's exactly right.

• The structure uses high-tensile steel with crumple zones. The Hilux-based platform is known for its rigidity.

• There are seven airbags, including driver and front passenger protection, with optional side and knee bags on higher trims. Head curtain airbags are also available.

• ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist come standard. Vehicle Stability Control helps prevent skids. Traction control prevents tyre slip. Hill-start assist holds the vehicle on inclines.

• Rear differential lock on higher trims provides traction in serious off-road scenarios. It's mechanical lock engagement, not electronic complexity.

• Parking sensors front and rear are standard on most trims. The rear camera is included, making reversing this large vehicle less stressful. Higher trims include blind spot monitors.

• Drive mode select on diesel variants adjusts throttle response and transmission behaviour for different conditions. It's practical technology serving real-world needs.

Things to keep in mind

• Ladder-frame vehicles feel different in collisions than unibody construction.

• The ride height and centre of gravity are different.

• The occupant protection philosophy is different. But the protection is genuine, proven, and reliable.