Frugal Force

Toyota's go-anywhere SUV now packs a 48V mild-hybrid setup. It's still the same tough Fortuner underneath, but promises a touch more polish and efficiency. Is this evolution enough to keep loyalists and new buyers interested?

- PICTURES Harvinder Singh

The Toyota Fortuner doesn't need an introduction. It's been India's default big SUV for nearly two decades. Simply put, it's tough, dependable, and immune to trends. While rivals have come and gone (some quietly, some not), the Fortuner has only grown stronger in numbers and street cred. But for all its dominance, there's one thing it's never been known for is efficiency. Until now.

Toyota has added a 48V mild-hybrid system to the Fortuner's 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine and slapped on the 'Neo Drive' tagname. It's not the kind of hybrid that lets you coast in silence or drive on electric power. This is more subtle. Think smoother engine starts, torque assist at low speeds, and marginally better fuel economy. So, is this mild-hybrid Fortuner the smarter choice? Or just a clever badge and a small bump in numbers? The only thing that sets both the Legender and Fortuner apart is a badge that reads 'Neo Drive' at the back. That's it. The colours, alloy wheels, and design language are identical. The tired old cliche of 'if it ain't broken', sits perfectly with the Fortuner. I'd say it's a poster child for it.