The eighth generation Toyota Hilux due for a launch in 2016 was caught on test with heavy camouflage in Argentina, giving us a glimpse on what the next generation Fortuner (based on the Hilux) would look like. Spotted by Autoblog reader Claudio A. Devincenti, the next generation Hilux pickup truck will form the basis for the 2016 Fortuner SUV sharing underpinnings and design with the pickup truck. Launched in 2009 in India, the Fortuner has been a bestseller in its segment and has been a consistent seller for Toyota, despite new competition coming in.
The spy shots reveal more of the front fascia that will get significant updates compared to the current model. The horizontal three-slat front grille has been replaced by a big and bold two-slat unit most likely done up in chrome that will provide a more confident and masculine appearance to the SUVs fascia. The headlight cluster gets more angular and seems to be inspired from the flagship LC200 SUV. The bumper has been revised with the fog lamps moving up on the bumper, while the air intake gets wider.
The next generation Hilux and Fortuner will also get a bit wider, improving the cabin width that will offer more comfort and tech. The ORVMs are now more stylish than the ones on the outgoing version, while the tail lights will get LEDs. The 2016 Fortuner and Hilux will continue with the ladder-frame chassis as opposed to a monocoque unit, based on customer feedback. The company had earlier stated that the older chassis helped maintain the SUVs rugged appeal, which owners approve off.
The next generation models will continue with the same engine options that will be tuned to offer more power, pick-up and efficiency. While the 2016 Toyota Fortuner is still a good two years away from launch, Toyota will be bringing a lower variant of the Fortuner to keep the masses happy with the Innova’s 2.5-litre D4-D diesel unit, paired to a 5-speed transmission that will be taking on the Hyundai Santa Fe, Renault Koleos and the likes in the segment. There is also an automatic variant planned that will form as the new top end model available with the 3.0-litre engine.
Source – Autoblog.com.ar