A sporty version of the Fortuner is set to go on sale in South Africa during the first quarter of 2025, Toyota SA has confirmed.
Although most of the details remain under wraps, the company has confirmed that its upcoming Fortuner GR-S will have more power than current versions of the SUV model.
This almost certainly means that the newcomer will inherit the sportier tuning given to the Hilux GR-S, whose 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine produces 165kW and 550Nm, which is 15kW and 50Nm more than the regular 2.8 versions produced.
The single image released thus far shows the sporty model will also receive some subtle design enhancements, including a modified front bumper, with horizontal trim elements added to the foglight housings, and the vehicle also rides on unique black alloy wheels.
The cabin is likely to emulate overseas versions, with aluminium pedals, red stitching on the seats and dashboard trim, and a unique steering wheel with GR-S badging.
Pricing for the new Toyota Fortuner GR-S will be announced closer to launch, but the vehicle has already been previewed on the Toyota Fortuner Challenge website, which lists an approximate value of the R900,000 for the GR-S, which will be offered up as a prize to the winner of the gruelling competition.
We’d be surprised if Toyota priced it that low, as the current 2.8 VX costs R961,800 and the regular 2.8 GD-6 4x4 is listed at R907,800. It is possible however, that Toyota will offer the GR-S with less interior specification than the VX in order to keep pricing down, but all will be revealed in early 2025.
“Building up on the strong credentials that made Fortuner a household name, the new GR-S version will come with more power and style to complement its exceptional off-road capabilities and versatility. TSAM believes that the new offering will take the legendary Fortuner to new heights,” Toyota said in a statement to the media.
IOL