2023 Toyota Fortuner GX: Quick Review

The Toyota Fortuner has carved a niche for itself since arriving in 2015 as a reliable and rugged SUV, capable of handling both urban streets and challenging off-road conditions.

The large SUV, based on the top-selling Hilux ute, is available only as a seven-seat offering.

The Fortuner GX, as the entry point to the lineup, offers a blend of durability, practicality, and Toyota's renowned reliability.

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Toyota Fortuner Crusade shown, differences include larger wheels and rear privacy glass

Positioned in the Toyota line-up in the middle of their SUV line-up, the Fortuner sits between the city-focused Kluger, and pricier Prado and LandCruiser as an off-roading family car.

But in a segment with many strong contenders, let's see what you'll pick up in the most affordable Fortuner on offer.

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Toyota Fortuner Crusade shown, differences include larger wheels and rear privacy glass

Pricing and features

The Fortuner GX kicks off the line-up at $53,775 before on road-costs.

There are three available grades: GX, GXL and Crusade.

All variants share the same 2.8-litre diesel producing 150kw and 500Nm with a combined fuel economy of 7.6L/100km. Buyers only have the choice of the standard part time 4WD set up.

In practical driving situations, the Fortuner typically achieves an average fuel consumption of approximately 11L per 100 kilometers across various driving conditions. During relaxed highway cruising, it can even achieve as low as 9.0 litres.

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Braked towing capacity is 3100kg across the range since the 2021 update.

Standard features include 17-inch alloys, grey fabric seats, manual air conditioning and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Further specs include keyless entry and start, LED DRL's and headlamps, six speakers and body coloured retractable door mirrors.

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Toyota Fortuner Crusade shown, differences include larger wheels and rear privacy glass

When you fold down the third-row seats and slide the second-row seats forward, the Fortuner's cargo space expands from 654 liters to a generous 716 litres.

The Fortuner's impressive off-road capabilities are the result of a straightforward set of features, including a low-range setting for its six-speed automatic transmission, a rear differential lock, and a substantial 216mm of ground clearance. It also has the ability to transition between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive modes.

Safety

A five-star score was awarded to the Toyota Fortuner with testing conducted in 2019.

The large SUV scored an extremely impressive 95% score for adult occupant protection 84% for children.

Toyota Safety Sense suite of features is available across the range, which includes high speed active cruise control, lane departure alert and road sign assist.

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Buyers also gain 7 airbags, vehicle stability control, downhill assist control, a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors and

The range-topping Crusade gains more advanced safety such as rear cross traffic alert, a panoramic view monitor and blind spot monitors.

Key rivals

Other ute-based large SUV's include:

• Ford Everest
• Isuzu MU-X
• Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 Toyota Fortuner GX is a solid choice for those seeking a rugged SUV that doesn't compromise on essentials.

While it might not have the luxury features of its higher-end siblings, it offers a balanced mix of performance, safety, and practicality.

If you're in the market for a seven-seater SUV that can handle both city challenges and off-road adventures, the Fortuner GX is a worthy contender.