In the world of SUVs, few names are as recognizable as the Toyota Fortuner. Known for its robust off-roading capabilities, reliability, and elegant design, the Fortuner has carved a niche for itself, especially in markets like Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. But how does it compare to the growing number of competitors in the mid-size SUV segment for 2024?
In this comprehensive review, we will dive into the key strengths and weaknesses of the 2024 Toyota Fortuner, comparing it with major rivals such as the Ford Everest, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Isuzu MU-X, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Whether you’re seeking adventure on rugged trails or comfort on city streets, this comparison will help you decide which SUV is right for you.
Design and Exterior
Toyota Fortuner
The 2024 Toyota Fortuner features a bold, muscular exterior that echoes its rugged performance. With its elevated stance, chrome accents, and sleek LED headlights, the Fortuner projects an aura of strength and elegance. Its high ground clearance and body-on-frame construction are tailored for off-road adventures, yet it retains the sophistication needed for urban environments.
Competitors
- Ford Everest: The Ford Everest is one of the strongest rivals when it comes to exterior design. It has a similarly tough and rugged appearance, but with more modern curves and a less boxy design. The Everest’s sporty front grille and adaptive LED headlights provide it with a more contemporary feel, especially for city driving.
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: The Pajero Sport, on the other hand, adopts a more streamlined look. Its “Dynamic Shield” design philosophy gives it a futuristic front-end but lacks some of the robust features of the Fortuner, particularly for off-roading.
- Isuzu MU-X: Known for its no-nonsense design, the Isuzu MU-X leans toward functionality over flair. It has a utilitarian aesthetic that appeals to buyers looking for durability, but its visual appeal falls short compared to the more stylish Fortuner.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee stands out with its iconic seven-slot grille and a more luxurious exterior. It’s less off-road focused and more about making a statement in both urban and semi-rugged environments.
Verdict:
When it comes to design, the Toyota Fortuner strikes a balance between ruggedness and elegance, making it an ideal choice for those who want an SUV that can handle the wild without sacrificing looks. The Jeep Grand Cherokee edges it out in luxury, but the Fortuner’s off-road-ready look remains unrivaled among many competitors.
Performance and Engine Options
Toyota Fortuner
The 2024 Fortuner comes with two engine options: a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, which delivers an impressive 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and a 2.7L petrol engine. The diesel engine is a favorite for off-road enthusiasts thanks to its torque-heavy performance, making it ideal for towing and rough terrain. The Fortuner also features a part-time 4WD system with differential lock, a combination designed to tackle any off-road challenge with ease.
Competitors
- Ford Everest: The Everest also offers diesel powertrains, including a 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 that boasts higher power (250 hp and 600 Nm of torque). It edges out the Fortuner slightly in power and is paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, offering superior on-road and off-road versatility.
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Equipped with a 2.4L turbo-diesel engine, the Pajero Sport offers less power (181 hp and 430 Nm of torque) compared to the Fortuner. However, it compensates with excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Isuzu MU-X: The MU-X is powered by a 3.0L turbo-diesel engine, delivering 190 hp and 450 Nm of torque. While it lacks the power of the Fortuner, it’s renowned for its durability and efficiency.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee offers multiple engine options, including a 3.6L V6 petrol engine and a plug-in hybrid variant. While the Grand Cherokee focuses more on luxury and comfort, it can hold its own in moderate off-road conditions but falls behind in extreme off-roading compared to the Fortuner.
Verdict:
In terms of performance, the Toyota Fortuner’s balance of power and off-road capability makes it a strong contender. However, if you’re looking for even more torque and power, the Ford Everest offers slightly better performance, though at a potentially higher cost.
Off-Roading Capabilities
Toyota Fortuner
When it comes to off-road capabilities, the Toyota Fortuner has long been a favorite among adventurers. The 2024 model features robust 4WD technology, including hill descent control, active traction control, and a locking rear differential, making it ideal for navigating rocky terrain, sand dunes, or muddy trails. Its impressive ground clearance of 279 mm and a wading depth of 700 mm give it an edge over many competitors in water-crossing and difficult terrains.
Competitors
- Ford Everest: The Everest offers a Terrain Management System with four drive modes (Normal, Snow/Grass/Gravel, Sand, and Rock). It’s an excellent off-road machine but slightly lacks the rugged simplicity of the Fortuner.
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: The Super Select 4WD II system in the Pajero Sport is advanced but can feel complicated for less-experienced off-roaders. It’s capable but lacks the ease-of-use found in the Fortuner’s setup.
- Isuzu MU-X: Known for its reliability, the MU-X holds its own in off-road conditions with a ground clearance of 230 mm and solid 4WD options. However, it doesn’t match the Fortuner in extreme off-roading due to its more basic 4WD system.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Trac II 4WD system is excellent, especially for moderate off-road conditions. However, it leans more toward luxury and comfort, making it less suited for extreme off-roading compared to the Fortuner.
Verdict:
For pure off-roading capabilities, the Toyota Fortuner is tough to beat. Its combination of advanced 4WD technology, ground clearance, and rugged construction makes it the superior choice for off-road adventurers.
Interior and Comfort
Toyota Fortuner
Inside, the 2024 Fortuner balances comfort and practicality. The spacious cabin can seat seven, with premium leather upholstery in higher trims. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher variants offer features like wireless charging and a 9-speaker JBL sound system. However, the Fortuner focuses more on durability than luxury, which is evident in its somewhat utilitarian interior design.
Competitors
- Ford Everest: The Everest’s interior is more refined, with soft-touch materials and an expansive 12-inch infotainment display. It also offers more tech features like adaptive cruise control and a panoramic sunroof, which the Fortuner lacks.
- Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: The Pajero Sport’s interior is modern and tech-focused but feels less premium compared to the Fortuner, especially in terms of seat quality and space.
- Isuzu MU-X: The MU-X, like the Fortuner, leans toward practicality over luxury. The cabin is spacious, but the interior materials are not as refined as those in the Ford Everest or Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee takes the crown for luxury, with leather-trimmed seats, ambient lighting, and a high-end Uconnect infotainment system. However, this comes at a significantly higher price point.
Verdict:
If luxury is your priority, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Everest offer more opulent interiors. However, for those who prioritize a blend of comfort and practicality, the Toyota Fortuner offers excellent value, especially for adventurers who don’t mind a more rugged interior design.