The all-new generations of Toyota Hilux and Fortuner were introduced to the members of the media today by the sole authorized importer and distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT). The Hilux is the best-selling pick-up truck in Malaysia and is now entering its 8th generation, while the Fortuner SUV begins its second generation. Both the models will be assembled at the UMWT plant in Shah Alam, Selangor.
“We are confident that the new generation of both the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner will be just as well accepted by Malaysian customers as their predecessors have been,” said Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMWT. “They come with not just fresh new designs, new technology and better performance but also continue to be good value for money, which has been a strong point of the Toyota brand for decades,” he added.
The new Hilux comes with six different variants in Double Cab and Single Cab configurations with two powertrain options, the 2.4-liter and 2.8-liter. One of the highlights of the new Hilux is the new Global Diesel (GD) engine series with 2.4-liter and 2.8-liter versions. This new engine provides stronger low-end torque delivery, better responses for acceleration, greater reliability and improved fuel efficiency.
The engines are paired to either a six-speed manual or an electronically-managed automatic transmission. The new Hilux also gets stronger chassis and bodyshell as it has 45-percent more spot weld points to improve body rigidity, as well as using high tensile steel plates in the upper and lower body to improve strength and safety without adding unnecessary weight. These structural enhancements do not only make the frame more long-lasting, but also improving ride comfort and handling as well.
Like the Hilux, the new Fortuner also gets two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder diesel with 150PS and 400Nm of torque, and a 2.7-liter four-cylinder petrol with 166PS and 245Nm of torque. The Fortuner received new styling for a fresher look where the change of design gives it a more premium appearance. Toyota had also given priority in improving the aerodynamic performance to give it better stability at high speeds and reduce wind noise.
This new SUV also features an interior that gives a more passenger-car-like feel with high-quality materials and additional convenience features, thanks to Hiroki Nakajima who has more experience on cars rather than pick-ups. Levels of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) have been lowered significantly for the occupants’ comfort by using an improved body structure and a generous use of insulating materials.
Like most premium SUVs in the market, the Fortuner comes with a Smart Entry and Push Start System, and the 2.7 SRZ variant gets a power rear door that allows the rear door to open at the touch of a button.
Since Toyota is one of the top names in the game, both the Hilux and Fortuner come with an array of Active and Passive Safety features to keep the occupants safe and sound. ABS is standard in every variant as well as the 3 front SRS airbags and 3-point auto-retracting seatbelts for every occupant. The top of the range for both models get an additional 4 airbags at the outer sides of the front seats. A new feature called the Active Traction Control mimics the function of the limited-slip differential to maximize traction on tricky terrain.
The all-new Hilux will hit the market at OTR prices starting from RM 89,900 while the Fortuner from RM 189,900. All the latest models offered by UMW Toyota will come with a 5-year warranty, subject to terms and conditions. The Hilux is now available at all showrooms nationwide while the Fortuner will only be available sometime in June.
