Rs 45 Lakh Toyota Fortuner Launch Confirmed – First Defender Copy?

Rs 45 Lakh Toyota Fortuner Launch Confirmed – First Defender Copy? Price, Design & Specs

Image: Rs 45 Lakh Toyota Fortuner Launch Confirmed – First Defender Copy? Price, Design & Specs – Performance Comparison and Specifications

Bottom line: Toyota has officially confirmed that a new Fortuner will arrive in India at a price of around Rs 45 lakh, and many are calling it the first Indian copy of the Land Rover Defender.

Design & Looks

The upcoming Fortuner looks like it borrowed a few cues from the rugged Defender. The front grille is larger, with a bold honey‑comb pattern that screams confidence. Headlights are slimmer and sit a little lower, giving the SUV a more aggressive stare.

Side profile remains familiar – a muscular shoulder line, flared wheel arches, and a roof rack that hints at adventure. Inside, Toyota says the cabin will get a fresh infotainment screen, leather‑trimmed seats, and a few premium touches that were previously reserved for the higher‑end variants.

LED projector headlamps
Dual‑tone alloy wheels (19‑inch standard)
Smart entry with push‑button start
Ambient interior lighting

Performance & Mileage

Under the hood, the new Fortuner is expected to carry the 2.8‑litre diesel engine that powers the current model. It delivers roughly 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque, paired with a 6‑speed automatic gearbox.

Toyota claims a combined fuel economy of about 12 km/l, which is decent for a vehicle of this size. Real‑world tests usually land a little lower, around 10‑11 km/l, especially when you’re carrying a full load or tackling steep hills.

Engine	2.8 L Turbo Diesel, 204 hp, 500 Nm
Mileage	≈12 km/l (combined)
Price	Rs 45 lakh (ex‑showroom)
Top Features	LED headlights, 19‑inch alloys, leather seats, 8‑inch infotainment, 360° camera

Price & Rivals

At Rs 45 lakh, the new Fortuner sits in a crowded segment. It directly challenges the Mahindra XUV700, the Kia Sorento, and the new Hyundai Palisade. All three offer comparable power and a similar price tag, but the Fortuner’s brand legacy and off‑road pedigree give it an edge for many buyers.

Mahindra’s XUV700 starts at about Rs 41 lakh, but it lacks the proven 4×4 system that Toyota is known for. The Kia Sorento, priced around Rs 44 lakh, feels more urban‑oriented, while the Hyundai Palisade pushes the upper limit of the segment at Rs 48 lakh.

Overall, the Fortuner’s mix of rugged styling, reliable diesel power, and Toyota’s after‑sales network makes it a strong contender for families who want both comfort and occasional off‑road capability.

FAQ

What is the expected mileage of the new Fortuner?

Toyota states a combined mileage of about 12 km per litre. In real‑world driving you can expect roughly 10‑11 km/l depending on load and terrain.

Is the Rs 45 lakh Fortuner worth buying against its rivals?

If you value a proven diesel engine, strong resale value, and a rugged look reminiscent of the Defender, then yes. Competing models may be cheaper or more tech‑focused, but the Fortuner’s overall package is hard to beat in this price band.