If you’re not able to see a flash slideshow above see the images directly at exclusive Toyota Fortuner close-up image gallery
Archive for August, 2009
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. (TKM) today announced the launch of the Toyota FORTUNER, in India.
The internationally acclaimed FORTUNER, which offers an unmatched combination of power and luxury supported by cutting-edge technology, was unveiled in New Delhi today by Mr. Akira Okabe (Senior Managing Director, TMC), Mr. Vikram Kirloskar (Vice-Chairman, TKM), Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa (MD, TKM), Mr. Kaoru Hosokawa (Chief Engineer, TMC) and Mr. Sandeep Singh (DMD, Marketing, TKM).
Available with 5 speed manual transmission, the FORTUNER not only offers unshakeable sturdiness with high ground clearance, long wheelbase, full-time 4WD and excellent drivability on all terrains, but is also loaded with comfort features like Climate Control AC, Optitron meter, Multi-information display, steering control switches, Space-up type 3rd row seats and leather interiors.
The exquisite bodyline and sporty exteriors of FORTUNER are further accentuated by attractive roof rails, rear spoiler, side steps & bonnet scoop. The spacious and comfortable interiors give FORTUNER an unparalleled edge over other SUVs in its segment.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Akira Okabe (Senior Managing Director, TMC) said, “We are delighted to introduce Toyota FORTUNER in the Indian market. Globally, FORTUNER has already sold over 2,50,000 units in more than 60 countries since its launch in 2005. The launch of FORTUNER today is an expression of Toyota’s commitment to provide best in class quality and technology to our customers in India.”
Added Mr. Hiroshi Nakagawa (Managing Director, TKM), “We’re very proud to finally bring FORTUNER to India. The sleek yet rugged FORTUNER delivers superior performance and excellent luxury for Indian customers. We would also like to thank our customers for the extremely encouraging response to the initial announcement of this launch.”
Mr. Kaoru Hosokawa (Chief Engineer, TMC) said, “Toyota’s FORTUNER is fully loaded with advanced features and has been extensively tested to suit Indian conditions. The powerful Common Rail type 3.0 L D-4D Diesel engine with Intercooler Turbocharger delivers superior power and performance.”
Mr. Sandeep Singh (DMD, Marketing, TKM) added “The SUV market in India has witnessed extensive growth due to launches in Mid/Premium SUV segment. We expect that the launch of the FORTUNER will expand the mid-SUV market in India. The FORTUNER will be very competitively priced at Rs 18.45 lakhs ex-showroom New Delhi. We will also implement a focused marketing campaign (including TV, print, magazines, hoardings, direct marketing, internet marketing and SMS) targeted at enhancing the awareness of advanced technology features amongst our Indian customers.”
The FORTUNER will be assembled in India at TKM’s plant in Bidadi.
If you are unable to view the slideshow above, then head to the Toyota Fortuner Image Gallery directly
Here are some of the details discussed during the vehicle’s launch
- 2,000+ Fortuners booked even before price announcement
- TKM (Toyota Kirloskar Motors) targets 52,000 vehicles by the year end in overall sales.
- Fortuner is placed even to attract sedan buyers
- Only manual transmission released; automatic transmission variant by this year end
- free trade agreement with Thailand helps ease matters. The Fortuner is a CBU brought in from Thailand
- On the sidelines, TKM has announced that there will be no Altis diesel in the near future.
- TKM has a 3% market share in the Indian auto market now.
- By 2010 end, the compact car will be launched
- hybrid vehicle Prius is still in the freezer.Talks are on with the government for alternate fueled vehicle benefits.
As our man Ritesh Madhok attends the vehicle’s press conference in Delhi, we bring you a set of images that shows the Indian-spec Fortuner from every angle, taken a while back. We can’t wait to hear what the officials have to say about the product, but we assure you we’ll upload those details as we receive them.
click through for more images
Update 1 - The Toyota Fortuner with the 3.0-liter D-4D engine that puts out 171 PS, 343 Nm is priced at 18.45 lakh (Delhi ex-showroom price). The Fortuner comes with ABS, disc brakes and Airbags to name a few features. The colors are super white, silver mica metallic, grey mica metallic, black mica and light blue metallic.
The Fortuner comes with full time 4WD.
stay tuned for more updates, images, press release and other information
One feature we loved in the Audi A4 we drove a while back, has to be the air circulation feature which fires cold air into your back, through the seat pores, and keeps it sweat free.
You would love such a feature on your daily commuter, wouldn’t you? Unfortunately, not many of us have the cash to buy an Audi A4 to enjoy this feature. For us, there’s a new kid on the block which can make your Alto drive closer to the Audi! In terms of features, at least.
This Cooling Car Summer Seat orders its built-in fan to blow cold air and keep your rear-end cool always. Powered via your vehicle’s cigarette lighter outlet, this device is a plug-and-play type and costs $60 a pop.
