The Toyota Fortuner GR Sport presents a powerful, performance-packed profile, reimagining the beloved Fortuner SUV with a strikingly aggressive appearance, refined handling capabilities, and a wealth of advanced features.
By Dumi Xaba
As we all anxiously await Gazoo’s grand reveal of the Detroit dynamo, the formidable Ford Ranger V6 Raptor, Toyota Motor Corporation has unveiled a thrilling twist with the performance-packed Fortuner GRS Sport.
Arriving in South Africa in 2025, the Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport boasts a breathtakingly bold build, transforming the treasured Fortuner SUV into a fiercely formidable figure, with finely tuned handling finesse and a treasure trove of top-tier technologies.
Toyota summoned their skilled speed specialists to refine the familiar 2.8L engine, squeezing out a smidge more power. Additionally, the suspension underwent a dynamic makeover, transforming this steadfast family vehicle into an exhilarating machine when adventure beckons.
The new GR Sport engine has been elevated from 150kW to an impressive 165kW, and the latest Hilux has surged from 150kW to 165kW, with torque climbing from 500Nm to a mighty 550Nm.
Toyota’s head office has not confirmed the crucial power statistics, but as this marvel will be manufactured at the eThekwini Prospecton industrial hub alongside its sibling, which shares the same foundational framework, we predict it will receive parallel performance polish.
The Fortuner, radiating an aggressive GR sport appearance, will be equipped with attention-grabbing red callipers, elevating its status among the herd. While Toyota has not yet revealed the details of the GR branding for the car’s interior, we can speculate based on the current GR models. Anticipate the GR badge to appear on the start-stop button, the front seat headrests, and the steering wheel.
These features will not only elevate the car’s aesthetic but also remind the driver that they are experiencing the ultimate iteration of the Fortuner.
This model, introduced in Australia—the bakkie capital of the world—features a sumptuous leather and suede interior. The bold red stitching and aggressive red callipers add a touch of flair. The leather framework has been enhanced to provide the Fortuner with a sportier feel on the road.
Toyota South Africa has confirmed that this refreshed best-selling SUV will launch in the first quarter of 2025.
Following closely in the footsteps of the formidable sales leaders, the VW Polo and Toyota Corolla—whose sales are significantly spurred by the rental sector— the Fortuner triumphantly crossed the 10,000 mark for the very first time in November 2024. The Japanese manufacturers are leaving nothing to chance, especially with Chery nipping at their heels, having clinched over 9000 sales.
Specifications
The following is the current list of specs for GR sport in overseas markets:
Engine Options:
⁕Engine Type: 2.8-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel engine
⁕Power Output: Around 150 kW we are expecting 155kW
⁕Torque: Approximately 500 Nm we are expecting 550Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission (with manual mode)
⁕Drive Type: 4WD (4×4) or 2WD, depending on the variant
Performance:
⁕0-100 km/h: Approximately 10.5 seconds (varies by market and specific configuration)
⁕Top Speed: Around 180 km/h
Dimensions:
⁕Length: Around 4,795 mm
⁕Width: 1,855 mm
⁕Height: 1,835 mm
⁕Wheelbase: 2,745 mm
⁕Ground Clearance: 279 mm
⁕Curb Weight: Approx. 2,100 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity:
⁕Tank Capacity: 80 litres
Interior and Features:
⁕Seats: 7 passengers (3-row seating)
⁕Infotainment System: 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display (depending on region),
⁕Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity
⁕Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control
⁕Upholstery: Leather upholstery with sport-specific finishes and a bit of suede confirmed
for the South African Market.
⁕Driver Assistance Features: Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision system, and more
⁕Cargo Space: Approximately 200-400 litres, depending on seat configuration
Suspension and Handling:
⁕Front Suspension: Independent double-wishbone with coil springs
⁕Rear Suspension: 4-link with coil springs
⁕Brakes: Disc brakes on all four wheels, ventilated for better cooling
⁕Wheels: 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on variant
Exterior Features:
⁕GR Sport Design Elements: Aggressive front grille, sporty bumpers, blacked-out accents, special badging, and unique alloy wheels
⁕LED Lighting: LED headlights and taillights
⁕Roof Rails: Available on select variants
Safety Features:
⁕Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags
⁕Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
⁕Hill start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC)
⁕Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
⁕Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
⁕Off-road Capabilities (on 4WD versions):
⁕Transfer Case: Part-time 4WD with low-range gearing
⁕Differential Lock: Available for better traction on rough terrains
Pricing details are still pending, but with the current Hilux trends, a six-figure sum seems inevitable. Toyota fans have made it clear that they’re ready to spend, as shown by the successful rollout of the new Hilux GR S. It’s essential that sales remain robust, even amidst market challenges.
On the suspension front, the Hilux has had its share of criticism during the moose test, but there’s hope that the enhanced ladder frame will finally put this long-standing problem to rest.