Hi everyone, and welcome to the channel! Today, we're taking a look at the recent news surrounding the Toyota Fortuner SUV and its potential adoption of mild-hybrid technology.
South Africa's Fortuner Gets Mild-Hybrid Boost:
Just this week, Toyota South Africa unveiled the Fortuner 48V, a variant equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup combines a familiar 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with an electric motor-generator and a 48-volt battery pack. This collaboration is claimed to improve fuel efficiency by up to five percent.
Intriguingly, this mild-hybrid powertrain isn't entirely new to the Toyota lineup in Australia. We've already seen it in the recently launched HiLux V-Active and the upcoming 250-Series LandCruiser Prado. That begs the question: will the Fortuner Down Under follow suit?
Uncertain Fate for Australian Fortuner:
There's a bit of a wrinkle in this story. Unlike South Africa's Fortuner, Australia's version hails from Thailand, and that production line hasn't yet adopted the mild-hybrid system.
Australian Fortuner vs. South African Fortuner 48V:
It's important to note that the Australian Fortuner differs from its South African counterpart in more ways than just the powertrain. Introduced in 2015, the Australian Fortuner received a facelift and tech upgrades in 2020. Additionally, it boasts a distinct front and rear design compared to the South African model.
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