Recently, it was reported that the Toyota Hilux could soon gain a turbo-gas engine soon. Slated for the next-generation model, it is said that it will use the upcoming 2.0-liter engine that Toyota is currently developing as part of its commitment to keep internal combustion around for longer.
Now, there are reports from India saying that its SUV counterpart, the Toyota Fortuner, could get it as well. Interesting times, we say.
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On top of that, it has also been rumored that this engine will replace the 2.8-liter turbodiesel that currently sits at the top of the Fortuner range. That said, we reckon it’s unlikely to happen given the strong sales of that engine in various markets, as well as diesel being the norm in its segment. Of course, it’s speculation for now, but we still believe that diesel power will remain in the popular SUV.
That aside, there are a few details that were shown in the report. It is claimed that it will produce around 300hp and 400Nm of torque, much higher figures compared to the long-running 2.7-liter VVT-i and 4.0-liter V6. For reference, the 2.7-liter makes 161hp and 245Nm, while the 4.0-liter puts out 267hp and 377Nm.
With figures like that, is it possible that the future Fortuner could get a ‘proper’ GR Sport version? It’s hard to answer that, but there is another good reason for the new engine. It’s likely for markets where customers prefer gasoline over diesel, particularly the Middle East. There’s also a good chance that this engine will be installed in other Toyota pickups and SUVs such as the Prado and 4Runner.
As for the all-new Toyota Fortuner launch, it has been locked in for 2025, although it wasn’t mentioned when specifically. With that in mind, the redesigned Hilux will also be shown sometime next year.
