Moving Up

Toyota’s take on its massively successful Fortuner leans toward style and sophistication. However, at the heart of it is still a capable SUV with tonnes of road presence.

- Debabrata Sarkar

A drive through God’s own country, as scenic as it is, can also be a frustrating proposition. The incredible vistas have narrow roads snaking around them, but the towns are never-ending and the traffic never really thins out. Ideal SUV country? Possibly, especially ones like the four-wheel-drive Fortuner that I am shepherding around, because, let’s face it, you do want to get away from the transport buses sliding their way down the hill and catch a piece of green earth to marvel at what truly makes Kerala so special. More often than not, there is a little trail at the end of the tarmac that leads up to the best vantage point and that is where this Toyota comes into its own and makes sure you have the best seat in the house. Don’t forget the fact that since its launch in 2009, the Fortuner has been an absolute favourite in India, especially as a symbol of power and for someone having made it (read politicians). It did grow to look fairly dated, especially on the inside and in need of a proper makeover.