The 2025 Toyota Fortuner storms into India’s premium SUV segment, reinforcing its dominance with a refreshed design, advanced technology, and unmatched reliability. Priced from ₹36.05 lakh to ₹52.34 lakh (ex-showroom), this 7-seater powerhouse takes on rivals like the Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster, and Hyundai Alcazar with a bold new look and a 48V mild-hybrid system. With over 200,000 units sold since its Indian debut in 2009, the Fortuner 2025 blends rugged off-road capability with urban sophistication. This comprehensive review explores why it remains the top choice for families, adventurers, and status-seekers in India and beyond.
Revolutionary Design: Muscular Meets Modern
The 2025 Toyota Fortuner commands attention with its bold, refreshed styling. The front fascia features a trapezoid-shaped grille with chrome highlights, flanked by sleek LED projector headlamps and integrated DRLs. The pontoon-shaped bumper with a silver skid plate adds rugged charm, while 18-inch alloy wheels (4WD) or 17-inch wheels (2WD) enhance its stance. Measuring 4,795 mm long, 1,855 mm wide, and 1,835 mm tall, with a 2,745 mm wheelbase, it’s a road giant yet agile in traffic. The GR-S variant and new Black Edition introduce sporty black accents and dark chrome, appealing to younger buyers. Eight vibrant colors—Platinum White Pearl, Sparkling Black Crystal Shine, Phantom Brown, and more—offer personalization.
Key Exterior Highlights
- Trapezoid grille with chrome accents
- Full LED headlamps with integrated DRLs
- 18-inch alloy wheels (4WD), 17-inch (2WD)
- Black Edition with dark chrome styling
- Eight color options, including Attitude Black
Interior: Premium Comfort Meets
Step inside the 2025 Fortuner, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels like a luxury cocoon. The dual-tone black and maroon interior (top trims) features soft-touch upholstery, metallic accents, and woodgrain ornamentation. Dual 8-inch touchscreens—one for infotainment, one for the driver display—support wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and connected car tech like geo-fencing and real-time tracking. The AX7L variant boasts a 11-speaker JBL audio system, ventilated leather seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. With 296 liters of boot space (expandable by folding the second and third rows), it’s perfect for family trips. However, third-row legroom is tight for adults, and some plastics feel less premium compared to rivals.
Interior Excellence Features
- Dual 8-inch touchscreens with connected tech
- Ventilated leather seats (AX7L, GR-S)
- 11-speaker JBL audio (4WD variants)
- 296-liter boot, expandable
- Dual-zone climate control with rear cooler
Powertrain Efficiency Redefined
The 2025 Fortuner offers two robust engines, with a new 48V mild-hybrid system boosting efficiency. The 2.7-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine (166 PS, 245 Nm) pairs with a 6-speed torque converter (TC) automatic, delivering 10–12 kmpl. The 2.8-liter turbo-diesel (204 PS, 500 Nm) comes with a 6-speed manual or TC automatic, plus 4×2 or 4×4 options, achieving 12–15 kmpl (real-world). The mild-hybrid diesel (Neo Drive, Legender Neo Drive) enhances fuel efficiency by ~10%, with seamless start-stop and regenerative braking. The diesel’s torque makes it ideal for off-road trails, while the petrol suits urban commutes. The ladder-frame chassis ensures durability, though the ride can feel firm on rough roads.
Safety
The 2025 Fortuner prioritizes safety with a robust suite of features. Standard across trims are 7 SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Brake Assist. Higher variants add Active Traction Control, Hill Assist Control, and Downhill Assist Control for off-road confidence. The 360-degree camera (GR-S, Legender) and front/rear parking sensors with MID indication make urban navigation a breeze. While not recently NCAP-tested, Toyota’s tough build and safety tech suggest a 4–5-star potential. The anti-theft alarm with ultrasonic and glass break sensors adds security, though some users note ADAS-like features are limited compared to rivals like the MG Gloster.
Premium Value
The 2025 Fortuner offers a wide variant lineup, from base to premium trims. Prices range from ₹36.05 lakh (2.7L 4×2 Petrol AT) to ₹52.34 lakh (GR-S Diesel TC). On-road prices in Delhi hit ₹59.2 lakh for top variants. Financing options include EMIs of ₹65,000–₹95,000/month at 8.5% interest, with cashback up to ₹1 lakh via Toyota’s T Care program. The Neo Drive and Legender Neo Drive mild-hybrid variants add efficiency, while the Black Edition (est. ₹48 lakh) offers sporty styling. Compared to the Jeep Meridian (₹24.99–₹38.79 lakh) and MG Gloster (₹41.07–₹46.24 lakh), the Fortuner balances premium features with reliability.
Technology
The Fortuner’s connected car tech, powered by Toyota’s ConTROL platform, keeps drivers in charge. Dual 8-inch touchscreens offer crisp visuals, with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and geo-fencing for real-time tracking. The 11-speaker JBL audio system (4WD) delivers immersive sound, while the Cool-Blue Combimeter with chrome accents adds flair. The Toyota Connect app enables remote lock, health monitoring, and service scheduling. Firmware over-the-air updates keep the system fresh, though some users report occasional connectivity lags with older devices.
Power Meets Precision Driving Dynamics
The Fortuner 2025 delivers a commanding drive, with responsive steering and a suspension tuned for versatility. The diesel’s 500 Nm torque powers through highways and trails, achieving 0-100 km/h in ~10.75 seconds (GR-S). The petrol is smoother for city use but less punchy. The 4×4 system and 225 mm ground clearance conquer rough terrain, though urban potholes can feel jarring. Braking is solid, with a 60-0 km/h stop in ~40 meters, but heavy loads may cause slight nose dive. The GR-S variant’s sporty tuning enhances cornering, making it a thrill on open roads.
Fuel Efficiency
The Fortuner’s efficiency shines with the mild-hybrid diesel, achieving 12–15 kmpl (real-world). The petrol delivers 10–12 kmpl, competitive but thirstier than the Hyundai Alcazar (20.4 kmpl). The 80-liter tank offers a 960–1,200 km range, ideal for cross-country drives like Mumbai to Goa. At ₹100/liter, a full tank costs ₹8,000, but the hybrid’s ~10% efficiency boost saves ₹500–₹1,000 per fill-up compared to rivals.
Practicality
With seating for 7, the Fortuner is a family hauler and off-road beast. The 296-liter boot expands to over 1,000 liters with the second and third rows folded, perfect for luggage or camping gear. The 225 mm ground clearance and tough frame handle India’s diverse roads, though third-row space is cramped for adults. Roof rails and under-seat storage add utility for daily use.
Competitive Edge
The Fortuner competes in India’s D1-segment, which held a 20% SUV market share in 2024. Key rivals include:
- Jeep Meridian: 24.99–38.79 lakh, 172 PS, 14.6 kmpl
- MG Gloster: 41.07–46.24 lakh, 161 PS, 13.9 kmpl
- Hyundai Alcazar: 14.99–21.70 lakh, 116 PS, 20.4 kmpl
- Tata Safari: 15.50–27.44 lakh, 170 PS, 16.3 kmpl
Final Thought
The 2025 Toyota Fortuner redefines premium SUVs with its bold design, tech-packed cabin, and mild-hybrid efficiency. Its 4×4 capability, safety features, and Toyota’s reliability make it a standout for families and adventurers. Minor drawbacks like third-row space and limited ADAS don’t dim its shine. Book a test ride and discover why the Fortuner remains India’s SUV king!