Toyota’s upcoming 4×4 SUV to be positioned between Hyryder and Fortuner
Toyota is reportedly developing a new rugged 4×4 SUV designed to fill the gap between its Urban Cruiser Hyryder and the Fortuner. This new model will be a direct competitor to Mahindra’s off-roaders, the Scorpio and the Thar Roxx, and is expected to target a growing demand for capable yet affordable SUVs in India.
Unlike the Fortuner, which is based on a body-on-frame chassis, Toyota’s new SUV will feature a monocoque platform, offering a different driving dynamic while still promising off-road capability. This platform will be entirely new and flexible enough to support various body styles and powertrains. This suggests that Toyota is aiming to create a versatile vehicle that can cater to a range of customer needs, from daily driving to rugged off-roading.
The success of Mahindra’s Scorpio and Thar Roxx, particularly in the off-road segment, has caught the attention of Toyota, which has dominated the full-size SUV market with the Fortuner. However, with the Fortuner’s on-road prices now exceeding Rs. 60 lakhs in some states, its position in the sub-Rs. 40 lakh segment has weakened, allowing Mahindra to capitalise on this gap. Toyota’s new SUV is expected to provide a more affordable alternative for customers who want the brand’s reliability and off-road prowess without the high price tag of the Fortuner.
While Toyota has not yet revealed specific details about the powertrains, sources suggest the SUV will likely feature a petrol-hybrid combination similar to the one found in the Innova HyCross. This would include a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid system. A diesel option seems unlikely, given the brand’s shift towards hybrid and electric powertrains and an all-electric variant may also be a possibility in the future.
The upcoming SUV is expected to showcase rugged, “mini-Fortuner” design cues, including high ground clearance and tough exterior styling. While it remains to be seen how Toyota will position this model in terms of pricing and features, it is clear that the company is aiming to reclaim ground in the mid-size SUV segment, which has seen growing competition in recent years.
Production of the new SUV is expected to begin in 2027 at Toyota’s new facility in Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra. With this development, Toyota is gearing up to challenge Mahindra’s dominance in the 4×4 segment, while also expanding its portfolio to cater to a broader customer base.
