In the Toyota Fortuner variant hierarchy, the G serves as the entry-level model. That said, base models these days should still be well equipped. Given current customer demands, a totally stripped down model won’t fly in the competitive midsize SUV class.
Which is why Toyota decided to add a new value-packed variant that slots even below the G, at least in Thailand. Dubbed the Fortuner S, it packs the essential features with the promise of a low(ish) price.
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In essence, the Fortuner S is the G with the Q and LTD’s front end. The alphabet soup of variant names aside, it gives the base model the same look as its more expensive counterparts. The Fortuner S also gets the same bumper from the higher trim levels, although the 17-inch wheels are carried over from before.
This variant still has most of the features you’d expect in a modern midsize SUV. On the tech front, there’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a reverse camera with guidelines. It also benefits from bi-beam LED headlights, and dual automatic climate control.
So, what’s been deleted to lower the price? Aside from the smaller wheels, the Fortuner S doesn’t come with roof rails. The leatherette seats have been replaced with cloth, Toyota Safety Sense isn’t included, and there's also no cruise control. It also loses the push to start button, meaning you’ll have to use a good ol’ key to crank the engine.
As it’s the entry-level model, it uses the familiar 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine. Thankfully, it isn’t detuned so power is still rated at 148hp and 400Nm. Power and economy modes are present, of course. The lone transmission choice is a six-speed automatic. The manual transmission is no longer available in Thailand.
Think of the Fortuner S as the Innova XE. It’s relatively basic, but it has most of the features that many folks actually value. In Thailand, this model is 149,000 Baht less than the Fortuner G, or about P255,000 at current exchange rates. Put that into local context and it’s like getting the least expensive automatic Fortuner for just a hair over P1.6-M.
Currently, entry-level 4x2 midsize SUVs with an automatic start at almost P1.8-M. Should Toyota Motor Philippines consider this variant, it will easily be the most affordable model in its class. It might be difficult to make that happen, though, as Philippine-market Toyota Fortuner is sourced from Indonesia.
