PETALING JAYA: The all-new generations of the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner were jointly launched today. Both are locally assembled with the Hilux priced from RM89,900 and the Fortuner from RM186,900.

The Hilux is available nationwide from today, while the Fortuner will only hit showrooms in June. Distributor UMW Toyota Motor is targeting to sell 27,000 units of the Hilux and 1,400 units of Fortuner by the end of this year.

The Hilux and Fortuner models are part of the Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles project (referred to as the ‘IMV Project’) and shared many parts and systems for cost savings. Under the IMV strategy, all product development and manufacturing are done at specific locations around the world other than engineering R&D in Japan.

READ MORE: Quick drive of Hilux and Fortuner

While based on the same platform, the Fortuner has a different rear suspension. Both models use independent double wishbone in front but the Fortuner uses rear coil springs for better handling and a more comfortable ride. In contrast, the Hilux has typical leaf springs at the back.

Both models have fresh new styling. Aerodynamic performance has also been improved to give better stability at high speeds and reduce wind noise. Their interiors are also even more passenger car-like than before with high-quality materials and additional convenience features. On hand to explain the key features of the two models was Hilux/Fortuner chief engineer Hiroki Nakajima, who is also a Toyota managing officer.

Hilux
With local market share at 52%, the Hilux remains the best-selling model in the 4x4 pick-up segment in the country. The 8th-generation Hilux is offered through six variants in Double Cab and Single Cab configurations with two powertrain options - the 2.4 litre and 2.8-litre. Highlighting its workhorse nature, all versions get a 6-speed manual gearbox except the 2.8G and 2.4G, which come with a 6-speed auto box.

These diesel engines are new and replace the previous 3.0L and 2,5L respectively. Both are part of the recently developed Global Diesel engine series. This series is characterised  by stronger low-end torque delivery, better response for acceleration, greater reliability under high stress and improved fuel efficiency.

The 2.8-litre engine makes 175hp at 3,400rpm, 9% more than the 3.0-litre lump. Peak torque of 450Nm from 1,600rpm to 2,400rpm is also 31% more. The 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine makes 148hp at 3,400 rpm, 4% higher than the outpit of the 2.5-litre engine used before. Torque is higher at 400Nm from 1,600rpm and 2,000rpm, 17% more.

The four-cylinder engine uses a high-pressure commonrail fuel delivery technology together with a turbocharger that has an electronically-controlled variable nozzle (VNT) for responsiveness. Weight and internal friction have been reduced while the intercooler is relocated to the front from the top for more effective cooling. Nakajima said a robust protection system in front minimised the risk of the intercooler being damaged in an accident.

One of the highlights of the new generation is the stronger chassis frame as well as bodyshell. For example, the bodyshell of the new Hilux has 45% more spot weld points to improve body rigidity. High tensile steel plates are also used in the upper and lower body to improve strength and safety but without adding more weight. The latest structural enhancements make the frame more long-lasting while also improving ride comfort and handling. Crash safety is also improved as the chassis frame is stronger and has better impact absorption.

“The Hilux model had maintained its popularity with over 200,000 units of the outgoing generation have been sold throughout Malaysia since launched in 2005.  It became one of the best-selling models for UMW Toyota Motor the past 10 years." said UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk Ismet Suki.

Fortuner
The new Fortuner comes in two variants and the price starts from RM186,900 for Peninsular Malaysia.  Customers have a choice of either the same 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine found in the Hilux or a proven 2.7-litre petrol engine. In its second generation, the model is relatively young in the the Toyota line-up, having been introduced 12 years ago.

It has been restyled and marketed as a premium and classy 7-seat SUV with the robustness of traditional SUVs. It used an all-new ladder frame chassis that has been made more rigid for durability, confident handling, ride comfort and low levels of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH).

It has flared wheel arches and a floating roof appearance due to wraparound styling on the rear roof pillars, similar to the Lexus RX. The 2.4L version gets bi-LED projector headlamps while the 2.4L uses halogen lights. The cabin was designed for greater comfort and convenience in a move to make it more like a premium car interior. Soft-touch materials are used in key contact areas, 4-spoke steering wheel has switches, 8-way power adjustment of driver's seat, and more legroom in second row, with reclining function in third row. There's also plenty of cubby holes and storage spaces to fit a modern, active lifestyle.

The 2.7-litre petrol engine is the same as before but now comes with Dual VVT-i to increase efficiency and responsiveness, It makes 164hp at 5,200rpm with peak torque of 245Nm at 4,000rpm. Both versions are fitted with a 6-speed automatic gearbox; manual selection is available via the sequential function. For the higher grade, the driver can choose gears from the steering wheel using paddle shifters. A Drive Mode switch gives the driver a ECO (for better fuel efficiency) or POWER (for performance) mode. If neither is chosen, the default mode provides a balance of fuel economy and performance.

Both variants have Auto Disconnecting Differential (ADD) which allows engagement of the front differential from 2WD to 4WD while the vehicle is moving. New to the latest Fortuner is an Electronic Transfer Dial, a rotary dial instead of the traditional second lever that direct power to the front axle with High and Low ranges.

Common to both
The interior refinement owes much to Nakajima, whose previous experience was focused on cars rather than pick-ups.

For a more pleasant drive, the levels of NVH have been lowered significantly that Toyota claims occupants won’t believe there are in a pick-up truck or SUV. Considerable effort went into suppression of NVH, starting with an improved body structure that helps prevent road and mechanical noise entering the cabin as well as generous use of insulating materials. As in many premium SUVs nowadays, the new Fortuner has a Smart Entry and Push Start System.

Additionally, a feature which will delight owners is the power rear door on the Fortuner 2.7SRZ that allows the rear door to open and close at the touch of a button.Such feature is usually available only on a more expensive SUV model.

The latest Hilux and Fortuner come with many active and passive safety features which are similar to what is offered in passenger cars. For example, ABS is standard for every variant of the Hilux and Fortuner along with 3 front SRS airbags (the third one is for the driver’s knee) and 3-point auto-retracting seatbelts for every occupant. For the top variants of both models, there are also 4 additional airbags at the outer sides of the front seats and over the windows for a total of 7 airbags (the Hilux is the first in its class with this many airbags).

A new feature is Active Traction Control (A-TRC) which mimics the function of the limited-slip differential (LSD) for maximising traction on challenging terrain or surfaces. This gives the driver confidence to concentrate on driving rather than worrying if he will be stuck.

As with all the latest models offered by UMW Toyota Motor since April 1 this year,  the new Hilux and Fortuner come with a 5-year warranty, subject to terms and conditions. The fully-backed warranty is transferable to the next owner if it is still in effect when sold off.