2023 Toyota Fortuner Crusade: Quick Review

The Toyota Fortuner has solidified its reputation as a distinctive model since its introduction in 2015, renowned for its reliable and rugged nature, capable of conquering both urban roads and challenging off-road terrains.

This substantial SUV, constructed on the foundation of the best-selling Hilux ute, is exclusively offered in a seven-seat configuration.

The Fortuner GX, serving as the entry-level choice in the lineup, embodies a fusion of durability, practicality, and Toyota's renowned reliability.

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Within Toyota's SUV range, the Fortuner positions itself between the city-focused Kluger and the higher-priced Prado and LandCruiser models, catering to families seeking an off-road-capable vehicle.

However, in a competitive segment filled with numerous contenders, let's explore what the range-topping Fortuner variant has to offer.

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Pricing and features

Sitting as the most premium variant in the range, the Fortuner Crusade is available at $66,755 before on road-costs.

All grades are equipped with the same 2.8-litre diesel engine, producing 150kW and 500Nm of torque, while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 7.6L/100km. Buyers are limited to the standard part-time 4WD setup.

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The Fortuner's impressive off-road capabilities stem from a straightforward set of features, including a low-range setting for its six-speed automatic transmission, a rear differential lock, and a substantial 216mm of ground clearance. Additionally, it seamlessly transitions between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive modes.

In real-world driving scenarios, the Fortuner typically maintains an average fuel consumption of around 11 liters per 100 kilometers, spanning various driving conditions. During relaxed highway cruising, it can even achieve as low as 9.0 liters.

The braked towing capacity has remained consistent at 3100kg across the range since the 2021 update.

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Standard features from the GX includes an 8-inch touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry and start and LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and headlamps.

Stepping up into the GXL adds chrome coloured door handles, rear privacy glass, roof rails, LED fog lamps, wood-grain look steering wheel, sat nav, dual zone climate control and paddle shifters.

And at the pinnacle, the Crusade offers:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 11 JBL speaker audio system
• Door courtesy lamps
• Leather accented seats
• Front heated seats
• Electrochromatic rear view mirror
• Power back door

Safety

The entire Toyota Fortuner range received a five-star rating after testing conducted in 2019.

This encompasses high scores, with a remarkable 95% rating for adult occupant protection and an 84% rating for child occupant protection.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite of features is available across the range, which includes high speed active cruise control, lane departure alert and road sign assist.

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Buyers also benefit from the inclusion of seven airbags, vehicle stability control, downhill assist control, a reversing camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

The top-tier Crusade variant packs in additional advanced safety features, such as rear cross-traffic alert, a panoramic view monitor and blind spot monitors.

Key rivals

Competitors include other popular ute-based large SUV's:

• Ford Everest
• Isuzu MU-X
• Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 Toyota Fortuner is a reliable option for individuals seeking a robust SUV that maintains its essential attributes.

For a vehicle of this size, the more desirable features are exclusive to the top of the range Crusade such as rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitor.

The Crusade packs in all you'd need in a family SUV, with the creature comforts of a luxurious car.