2016 Toyota Fortuner vs current Toyota Fortuner - Old vs New

A radical design makeover for Toyota's Hilux-based SUV.

Even prior to its worldwide debut scheduled for July 17 in Thailand, revealing images of the 2016 Toyota Fortuner's exterior and interior have shown what to expect from this SUV which is the best seller in its segment in India.

No longer does the Fortuner get a conservative design, instead, the front and rear of the 2016 Fortuner are unlike any Toyota model seen till date. In images, the 2016 Fortuner also appears a tad larger than its predecessor, signaling that interior space would also be better.

Speaking of the interior, the Fortuner has traded its dated, Innova-esque dashboard for a more modern looking cabin with extended features and safety. Some of the noteworthy features include keyless entry with an engine starter button, a large touchscreen entertainment system with navigation and reverse camera, 7 airbags including a driver knee airbag, leather seats, automatic climate control, HAC, VSM, TCS and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Under the hood, the 2016 Fortuner will be powered by a 2.4- or a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine from the newly inducted 'GD' engine family. These units are expected to deliver around 10 percent more efficiency than the previous KD-series engines. The petrol Fortuner, which is not available in India, will continue with its predecessor's 2.7-liter VVT-i engine though.

The 2016 Fortuner is expected to launch in India in the next financial year. Compared to the current model, localization levels on the new model are expected to be increased as the engines will be manufactured at a new plant in Jigani, Karnataka.