Toyota Fortuner now gets even costlier, reaching 277% of the original launch price from back in 2009. The iconic SUV made its entry into our market in 2009 with great interest from SUV lovers. Even at that time, it had earned international acclaim. Toyota Kirloskar Motor set ambitious goals, aiming to sell more than 2,000 units in 2009, offering it with a starting price of Rs 18.45 lakh, ex-showroom. Needless to say, it represented a significant investment in those times. What remained unknown to us back then was that the Fortuner would go on to achieve unparalleled success. No doubt, I feel today, it’s the most aspirational large SUV out there.
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Toyota Fortuner Gets Costlier
After the latest price hike of Rs 70,000, the top GR-S model costs a whopping Rs 51.44 lakh, ex-showroom. Comparing this to the first model from 2009 which had a retail sticker of Rs 18.54 lakh, ex-showroom, there is an increment of a massive 277%. Even if we take into account the inflation, this is certainly a huge price increment. Another factor we must mention here are the rise in taxes. The cost of raw materials and other input costs have led to this moment. Another key aspect is the lack of a worthy rival. Until 2021, Ford Endeavour was its arch-rival. But the American auto giant has quit manufacturing in India. Hence, the Endy is gone.
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This gives Toyota the opportunity to introduce new versions of the Fortuner at even higher price point. The two most prominent models are Legender and GR-S. These are, essentially, the special edition models to make the regular Fortuner slightly premium. But that has come at a cost. That is the reason why the ex-showroom price of the GR-S, 4×4 diesel AT is over Rs 51 lakh. This means that the on-road prices are well above the Rs 60 lakh mark. Let us wait and see how things pan out with the growing inflation in the economy in times to come.
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Specs
The Toyota Fortuner provides a selection between two engine options – a 2.7-litre petrol engine and a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, both of which impress with their power and torque capabilities. The petrol engine produces a respectable 164 hp and 245 Nm, while the turbo-diesel engine boasts a robust 201 hp and 420 Nm of peak power and torque (or 500 Nm when equipped with the automatic transmission). You can choose between a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission for your convenience. For assured control and performance across various terrains, the Fortuner is equipped with a rugged 4×4 system. Let us hope that the prices don’t shoot exponentially from here on.
