New-gen Toyota Fortuner spied testing: When is the India launch?

The Toyota Fortuner is one of the most popular D-segment SUVs in India.

• New-gen Toyota Fortuner spotted testing in Thailand.
• India launch expected by late 2026 or early 2027.
• Updated design, features and likely same powertrains.

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The new-generation Toyota Fortuner has been spotted testing in Thailand. Now, this is a significant development as the Toyota Fortuner is among the most popular D-segment SUVs in India, with significant volumes even at a premium pricing.

In India, the Toyota Fortuner price starts at Rs 34,16,000 and goes up to Rs 49,59,000 (ex-showroom). For a model from a mass-market brand, the price is relatively premium.

While the new-generation model is currently in its testing phase, we expect it to be launched in India by the end of calendar year (CY) 2026 or early next year. However, there has been no official word from Toyota on the India launch of the new Fortuner.

New Toyota Fortuner (Image - CAR250)

Spy photographs, courtesy CAR250, show a heavily camouflaged test mule. The Fortuner is a big SUV. It measures 4,795mm in length, 1,855mm in width and 1,835mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,745mm. The test mule looks a bit bigger with a more upright front fascia. We expect the SUV to continue on a ladder-frame architecture.

In terms of exterior features, we expect the new-gen Toyota Fortuner to get a bigger grille flanked by updated LED headlamps. At the rear, there will be new LED taillamps. Also, the front and rear bumpers are expected to be more muscular than before. The SUV will have fresh alloy wheels as well.

Although we do not have images of the interior, we expect significant updates here as well. There might be a new design for the dashboard with more in-dash features and an updated central console. The current model's interior looks dated now. A new touchscreen infotainment, a new automatic climate control panel and a new digital instrument cluster with an updated steering wheel will play an important role in maintaining the fresh identity of the Fortuner.

New Toyota Fortuner (Image - CAR250)

As far as the powertrain options are concerned, the current Fortuner gets a 2.7-litre petrol mill (166PS and 245Nm) with MT and AT choices, and a 2.8-litre diesel motor (204PS and 420/500Nm) with MT and AT choices. There is also a Neo Drive option, which pairs the diesel AT with a 48-Volt system, featuring a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. We expect these powertrains to be carried forward in the new-generation Fortuner

The Toyota Fortuner rivals the likes of the Jeep Meridian, Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tayron R-Line in the Indian market. It will soon have a new rival in the form of the MG Majestor.

The current Fortuner was launched in India in January 2021. Although the SUV has received certain updates over the years, a full generation change is expected to immensely add to its brand value.