The Toyota Fortuner has always been a favorite among SUV lovers in India, known for its powerful performance, bold looks, and reliability. Now, Toyota has launched the Fortuner in a new avatar with mild hybrid technology called “Neo Drive.” This new version brings advanced features, better fuel efficiency, and a smoother driving experience, making it even more attractive to buyers looking for a premium SUV. The Fortuner Mild Hybrid is not just about eco-friendliness; it also offers enhanced comfort, safety, and technology, making it a complete package for families and adventure seekers alike.
With the introduction of the 48V mild hybrid system, the Fortuner now stands out in its segment, offering a blend of traditional diesel power and modern hybrid efficiency. The new variant is available for booking, and deliveries will start from the third week of June 2025. The price for the Fortuner Neo Drive starts at ₹44.72 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Legender Neo Drive starts at ₹50.09 lakh, making these the most feature-rich and technologically advanced Fortuners yet.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the new Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid so special, its features, specifications, and why it’s creating so much excitement in the Indian SUV market.
Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid 2025
The Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid (Neo Drive) is a significant upgrade in the Fortuner lineup. Toyota has added a 48-volt mild hybrid system to its trusted 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine. This system includes a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery, which work together to improve fuel efficiency, provide smoother engine starts, and offer a slight electric boost during acceleration.
The hybrid system is not a full electric drive but assists the diesel engine, especially at low speeds and during idling. This results in a claimed 5% improvement in fuel economy and lower emissions, making the Fortuner Mild Hybrid a smarter and greener choice for buyers.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel |
| Power | 204 bhp |
| Torque | 500 Nm |
| Hybrid System | 48V Mild Hybrid (Neo Drive) |
| Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drive Type | 4X4 Automatic Only |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹44.72 lakh (Fortuner) / ₹50.09 lakh (Legender) |
| Booking Status | Open (June 2025) |
| Fuel Efficiency | Claimed 5% improvement over standard model |
| Key Features | 360° Camera, Wireless Charger, Multi-terrain Selector, Smart Idle Start/Stop |
| Safety | 7 Airbags, ESC, Hill Start Assist, Parking Sensors |
| New Additions | Neo Drive Badge, Regenerative Braking |
Key Features
The new Fortuner Mild Hybrid is packed with features that make it stand out in the full-size SUV segment. Here are some of the most important highlights:
- 48V Mild Hybrid System: Improves fuel efficiency and provides smoother, quieter engine starts.
- 204 bhp Power & 500 Nm Torque: Maintains the strong performance Fortuner is known for.
- 6-Speed Automatic Transmission: Ensures smooth gear shifts and easy driving in all conditions.
- 4X4 Capability: Perfect for off-road adventures and tough terrains.
- 360-degree Panoramic Camera: Offers a bird’s-eye view for easy parking and maneuvering.
- Wireless Smartphone Charger: Convenient charging on the go.
- Multi-terrain Selector: Adjusts vehicle settings for different road conditions.
- Smart Idle Start/Stop: Saves fuel by switching off the engine during idling.
- Regenerative Braking: Recharges the hybrid battery during deceleration.
- Neo Drive Badge: Unique branding to differentiate the hybrid variant.
- Premium Interiors: Leather upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen, JBL sound system, ambient lighting.
- Advanced Safety: 7 airbags, electronic stability control, hill start assist, front and rear parking sensors.
What’s New?
The biggest change in the new Fortuner is the addition of the 48V mild hybrid system. This system includes:
- Belt-Integrated Starter Generator: Helps in smooth engine starts and provides electric assist during acceleration.
- Lithium-ion Battery: Stores energy recovered during braking (regenerative braking) and powers the hybrid system.
- DC-DC Converter: Manages power distribution between the battery and the vehicle’s electrical systems.
The hybrid system enables features like auto start-stop, which turns off the engine when the vehicle is idling (for example, at a traffic light) and restarts it automatically when needed. This helps save fuel and reduces emissions.
Detailed Specifications
Let’s look at the technical specifications of the new Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.8L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel |
| Displacement | 2,755 cc |
| Maximum Power | 204 bhp @ 3,400 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,600-2,800 rpm |
| Hybrid System | 48V Mild Hybrid with Belt-Integrated Starter Generator |
| Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drive Type | 4X4 |
| Fuel Efficiency | Claimed 5% higher than standard diesel |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Braking System | Regenerative Braking |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | Double Wishbone / 4-Link with Coil Spring |
| Wheel Size | 18-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Ground Clearance | 225 mm |
| Boot Space | 296 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
Pricing and Variants
- Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V Mild Hybrid: ₹44.72 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive 48V Mild Hybrid: ₹50.09 lakh (ex-showroom)
These prices make the hybrid variants the most expensive in the Fortuner lineup, just below the GR-S variant. The mild hybrid system is currently available only with the 4X4 automatic transmission models. The hybrid variant costs about ₹2 lakh more than the non-hybrid counterpart, but the additional features and improved efficiency justify the price increase.
Booking and Delivery
- Bookings: Open now at all Toyota dealerships across India.
- Deliveries: Scheduled to start from the third week of June 2025.
Exterior and Design Changes
The new Fortuner Mild Hybrid keeps the bold and muscular design of the standard Fortuner. The only visible change is the addition of the Neo Drive badge on the tailgate, indicating the hybrid technology. The SUV continues to feature:
- LED headlamps and DRLs
- Chrome highlights and bold grille
- Alloy wheels
- Skid plates and roof rails
There are no major cosmetic changes, keeping the iconic Fortuner look intact.
Interior and Comfort Features
The Fortuner Mild Hybrid offers a premium and comfortable cabin with several advanced features:
- Leather Upholstery: Adds a touch of luxury.
- 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment: Supports smartphone connectivity.
- Wireless Phone Charger: Easy charging for compatible devices.
- JBL 11-speaker Sound System: Delivers high-quality audio.
- Ambient Lighting: Enhances the cabin atmosphere.
- Powered Front Seats: For added comfort and ease of adjustment.
- Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control: With rear AC vents for all-row comfort.
- Gesture-controlled Powered Tailgate: Hands-free boot access.
Notably, the ventilated front seats have been removed in the mild hybrid variants, possibly to accommodate the hybrid battery under the seat.
Safety Features
Toyota has equipped the Fortuner Mild Hybrid with a comprehensive safety package:
- 7 Airbags: For maximum occupant protection.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Maintains vehicle stability in tricky situations.
- Hill Start Assist: Prevents rollback on inclines.
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors: For easier parking.
- Rear Parking Camera: Assists in reversing.
- Emergency Brake Signal: Alerts other drivers during hard braking.
- Tough Frame Structure: Designed for high torsional rigidity and crash safety4.
Technology and Convenience
The Fortuner Mild Hybrid is loaded with the latest technology to make driving easier and more enjoyable:
- 360-degree Camera: Provides a complete view around the vehicle for safer maneuvering.
- Multi-terrain Selector: Adjusts the vehicle’s settings for different surfaces like mud, sand, or snow.
- Smart Idle Start/Stop: Saves fuel by shutting off the engine during stops.
- Regenerative Braking: Charges the hybrid battery during braking.
- Smart Key Entry and Push Start: For keyless access and ignition.
- Auto-dimming IRVM: Reduces glare from headlights behind you.
Performance and Driving Experience
Despite the addition of hybrid technology, the Fortuner Mild Hybrid retains its strong performance:
- The 2.8L diesel engine delivers 204 bhp and 500 Nm of torque, ensuring powerful acceleration and easy overtaking.
- The mild hybrid system adds an electric boost at low speeds, making city driving smoother and more responsive.
- The 4X4 system and multi-terrain selector make the Fortuner capable of handling rough roads and off-road trails with ease.
- The auto start-stop system and regenerative braking help improve fuel efficiency, especially in city traffic.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
One of the main benefits of the mild hybrid system is improved fuel economy. Toyota claims a 5% increase in fuel savings compared to the standard diesel model. This means lower running costs and fewer emissions, making the Fortuner Mild Hybrid a better choice for the environment.
For example, if the standard Fortuner gives around 10 km/l, the mild hybrid variant could deliver approximately 10.5 km/l. Over a year, this can result in significant fuel savings, especially for buyers who drive long distances regularly.
Why Choose?
Here are some reasons why the new Fortuner Mild Hybrid is a great choice:
- Better Fuel Efficiency: Save more on fuel with the hybrid system.
- Smoother Drive: Electric assist makes driving in traffic and at low speeds more comfortable.
- Advanced Features: Get the latest technology, safety, and comfort features.
- Strong Performance: No compromise on power and off-road capability.
- Premium Feel: Luxurious interiors and a commanding road presence.
- Lower Emissions: Contribute to a cleaner environment.
Fortuner Mild Hybrid vs Standard Fortuner
| Feature | Fortuner Mild Hybrid | Standard Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8L Turbo Diesel + 48V Hybrid | 2.8L Turbo Diesel |
| Power | 204 bhp | 204 bhp |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed AT (4X4 only) | 6-speed AT/MT (2WD/4WD) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 5% higher | Standard |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹44.72 lakh (from) | ₹42.72 lakh (from) |
| Key Features | 360° Camera, Wireless Charger, Multi-terrain Selector, Smart Idle Start/Stop | Standard Features |
| Hybrid System | Yes | No |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes | No |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes |
Market Impact and Competition
The launch of the Fortuner Mild Hybrid is a big step for Toyota in India’s SUV market. It is one of the first full-size SUVs in the country to offer a mild hybrid system, giving it an edge over competitors like the Ford Endeavour, MG Gloster, and Mahindra Alturas G4, which do not offer hybrid technology in this segment.
With rising fuel prices and stricter emission norms, more buyers are looking for vehicles that offer better efficiency without compromising on power or comfort. The Fortuner Mild Hybrid meets these needs perfectly, making it a strong contender in its class.
Customer Response and Future Outlook
Since bookings opened, the response to the Fortuner Mild Hybrid has been very positive. Buyers appreciate the combination of Toyota’s reliability, the SUV’s ruggedness, and the added benefits of hybrid technology. With deliveries starting soon, the Fortuner Mild Hybrid is expected to boost Toyota’s sales in the premium SUV segment.
Toyota’s move also signals a shift towards more electrified vehicles in India, with the company already offering hybrid options in other models like the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Glanza.
Conclusion
The Toyota Fortuner Mild Hybrid brings together the best of both worlds: the proven power and toughness of the Fortuner with the latest in hybrid technology for better efficiency and lower emissions. With advanced features, a premium cabin, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the new Fortuner Neo Drive is set to become the top choice for SUV buyers in India.
If you are looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and future-ready SUV, the new Fortuner Mild Hybrid is definitely worth considering. Bookings are open, and with deliveries starting soon, this new avatar of the Fortuner is ready to take on Indian roads with style, strength, and sustainability.
