Toyota has just made a surprise announcement with the new Fortuner GR-Sport, which will arrive in the first quarter of 2025.
The GR-Sport moniker is reserved for the brand’s range-topping entries and adds numerous cosmetic and technical enhancements themed around its Gazoo Racing (GR) division.
However, while the GR-Sport treatment has been afforded to the Corolla Cross and the Hilux, the current-gen Fortuner hasn’t been so lucky, until now.
What to expect
Toyota has yet to provide a detailed breakdown of the new Fortuner’s specifications, merely stating that it will boast “sport-inspired features and aesthetics, an aggressive stance as well as performance-focused upgrades.”
However, the automaker’s GR-Sport (GR-S for short) formula is well established at this point, and we can look to other vehicles in the Toyota family to get a better sense of what’s in store for us next year.
The most logical comparison is the Hilux GR-Sport, as the Fortuner shares the same platform and engines as the bakkie.
As a reminder, the GR-Sport designation is not to be confused with the full-fledged GR models like the GR Corolla or the GR Supra, which are built from the ground up as performance cars.
The GR-S logo, in contrast, is meant for comparatively minor upgrades to Toyota’s mass-market vehicles, giving them the appearance of a racing model with one or two mechanical tweaks thrown in as well.
This usually translates to various Gazoo Racing-themed cosmetics from a new colour scheme to decals, and units like the Corolla Cross have also benefitted from sport-tuned suspension.
The Hilux is actually a bit of an exception in this regard, as the double cab got a small bump to its power output when it received the makeover.
While the standard Hilux 2.8GD-6 turbo-diesel engine produces 150kW and 500Nm, the GR-Sport’s powertrain is uprated to generate 165kW and 550Nm.
The natural conclusion we can take away from this is that the new Fortuner GR-S will feature the same over-tuned 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, giving it that performance-focused upgrade that Toyota has alluded to.
As for cosmetic details, teaser images of the sporty SUV show an alternate honeycomb grille, front bumper, and alloy wheels – all with a black finish.
It also comes with red brake calipers, GR badges, aluminium pedals, and a black-and-red leather interior with Gazoo Racing logos for items like the push-start button.
Toyota will announce the pricing of the Fortuner GR-Sport in early 2025, but considering that it will likely be positioned as the new flagship of the range, we expect a price point of around R961,800 or more upon its debut.
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