2023 Toyota Fortuner GXL: Quick Review

The Toyota Fortuner has established itself as a distinctive model since its debut in 2015, known for its dependable and rugged nature, capable of handling both urban roads and challenging off-road terrains.

This substantial SUV, built on the foundation of the top-selling Hilux ute, is exclusively available as a seven-seat configuration.

The Fortuner GX, serving as the entry-level option in the lineup, presents a combination of durability, practicality, and Toyota's renowned reliability.

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

Within Toyota's SUV range, the Fortuner finds its place in the middle, positioned between the city-oriented Kluger and the higher-priced Prado and LandCruiser models, catering to families seeking an off-road-capable vehicle.

However, in a competitive segment with numerous contenders, let's delve into what you can expect from the middle-spec Fortuner variant.

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

Pricing and features

There are three available grades in the Fortuner range: GX, GXL and Crusade.

The Fortuner GXL is just over $5k over the base GX, at $58,895 before on road-costs.

All versions come equipped with the same 2.8-liter diesel engine, delivering 150kW and 500Nm of torque, while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 7.6L/100km. Buyers have the sole option of the standard part-time 4WD setup.

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

The Fortuner's impressive off-road capabilities stem from a straightforward set of features, which include a low-range setting for its six-speed automatic transmission, a rear differential lock, and a substantial 216mm of ground clearance. Additionally, it can seamlessly switch between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive modes.

In real-world driving scenarios, the Fortuner typically achieves an average fuel consumption of around 11 liters per 100 kilometers, spanning various driving conditions. During relaxed highway cruising, it can even reach as low as 9.0 liters.

The braked towing capacity has been consistent at 3100kg across the range since the 2021 update.

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Standard features from the GX includes 17-inch alloy wheels, grey fabric seats, manual air conditioning, and an 8-inch touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry and start, LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and headlamps, a six-speaker audio system, and body-coloured retractable door mirrors.

Stepping up into the GXL will add:

• Chrome coloured door handles
• Rear privacy glass
• Roof rails
• LED fog lamps
• Wood-grain look stering wheel
• Dual zone climate control
• Paddle shifters

When the third-row seats are folded down and the second-row seats are moved forward, the Fortuner's cargo capacity expands from 654 liters to a generous 716 liters.

Safety

The Toyota Fortuner received a five-star rating after undergoing testing in 2019.

This substantial SUV achieved notably high scores, with a remarkable 95% rating for adult occupant protection and an 84% rating for child occupant protection.

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 benefit from the inclusion of seven airbags, vehicle stability control, downhill assist control, a reversing camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

The top-tier Crusade variant offers even more advanced safety features, including rear cross-traffic alert, a panoramic view monitor, and blind spot monitors.

Key rivals

Notable 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 GXL proves to be a reliable option for individuals in search of a robust SUV that doesn't sacrifice essential qualities.

However, the GX remains our pick between the two with many of the additional spec of the GXL being design changes.

The more desirable features are exclusive to the top of the range Crusade such as the additional safety and creature comforts.