Toyota’s most iconic SUV is getting a major makeover. After being on sale for over a decade, the current-generation Toyota Fortuner is finally nearing the end of its life. Toyota is preparing an all-new, next-generation Fortuner, known in India as the “mafia car,” and it’s shaping up to be a serious response to rivals like the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, and Toyota’s own Land Cruiser Prado 250.
Here’s everything we know about the 2026 Toyota Fortuner so far, including its platform, design, engine options, interior upgrades, off-road capabilities, and expected launch timeline.
Platform: Familiar but upgraded
The 2026 Toyota Fortuner will continue to use Toyota’s proven and well-known IMV ladder-frame platform, with the same architecture that underpins the current Fortuner and Hilux. While this platform isn’t new, it’s known for its durability and reliability.
Toyota is expected to improve ride comfort with updated suspension tuning, possible hydraulic body mounts to reduce vibration, and a move towards electric power steering for better maneuverability. While the robust body-on-frame nature remains, comfort and refinement should be significantly better than before.
Exterior design: Tougher and more modern
Apparently, the next-gen Fortuner is being significantly redesigned. The front is expected to feature slimmer LED headlights, a bold trapezoidal grille with prominent Toyota branding, and a sharper, more aggressive bumper.
At the rear, you can expect a full-width LED light bar, a clean tailgate design, and strong off-road cues like flared wheel arches and reinforced skid plates. Overall, the SUV will look more modern, muscular, and in line with Toyota’s latest global design language.
Engine and Transmission of 2026 Toyota Fortuner
Under the bonnet, Toyota’s trusted 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine returns, but with a significant update. It will be paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system (Toyota’s V-Active technology), which is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
The system will come with an integrated starter-generator that helps reduce turbo lag, smooth throttle response and slightly improve low-end torque. Power figures are expected to start around 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque, with rumours suggesting a higher-output version producing up to 165 kW and 550 Nm to better compete with the Ford Everest V6.
One major upgrade will be the introduction of a new 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the old 6-speed unit. This will improve fuel efficiency, highway cruising and towing performance. Toyota is also expected to add AdBlue for emissions compliance in certain markets.
Towing and off-road capability
One of the Fortuner’s biggest weaknesses was its low towing capacity. The new model is expected to fix this, with Toyota reportedly strengthening the chassis to support a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which matches its main rivals.
The off-road hardware is familiar but effective. The Fortuner will likely retain a part-time 4WD system with low range and a rear locking differential, enhanced by improved terrain management modes for sand, mud and ruts. Ground clearance should remain at around 225 mm, with approach and departure angles close to the current figures.
Interior: Much-needed overhaul
The biggest improvement that is expected will be inside the cabin. The current Fortuner’s interior feels dated, and Toyota knows it. The 2026 model will feature a modern layout inspired by the Land Cruiser Prado and the new Camry.
Expect higher-quality materials, more soft-touch surfaces, improved seat comfort and better ergonomics. A large 10-12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard on higher trims, along with a digital instrument cluster and wireless phone charging.
Importantly, the third-row seats are expected to fold flat onto the floor instead of folding against the sides, significantly improving boot space and usability.
Safety and Technology
Safety will see a major improvement with the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite. This includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering, semi-autonomous driving assist and improved collision avoidance systems.
Structural improvements include additional airbags and possibly a front-center airbag, which will help the new Fortuner achieve a strong crash safety rating.
Rivals comparison
There is no direct competitor to the Fortuner available in India, but looking at the global market, the Fortuner may still lack a V6 engine, but it competes with the Ford Everest with better fuel efficiency, proven reliability and excellent resale value. The Isuzu MU-X remains affordable and reliable, but lags behind in refinement and technology.
Compared to the Land Cruiser Prado 250, the Fortuner offers almost the same off-road capability at a significantly lower price, making it a better value choice for most buyers.
Launch timeline and expected price
Toyota is expected to introduce the next-generation Fortuner globally in early 2026, after the debut of the new Hilux. Sales in markets like Australia and India are likely to begin in mid-to-late 2026.
Pricing is expected to increase slightly, with base variants starting in the ₹50 lakh (or mid-$50,000 AUD) range, while top-spec trims could reach around ₹70 lakh (or $70,000 AUD).
