Pure Performance Package
The Toyota Fortuner is a rugged SUV, well respected in Costa Rica’s rural and coastal areas for its durability and capability in off-road situations. It offers superior clearance compared to other SUVs of this size and larger, and all models have 4×4 low range capability. If you will commonly tackle river crossings or steep hills on bad roads, then the Fortuner will not let you down. It can be easily equipped with aftermarket off-road accessories that will improve on the already solid performance as well.
On the other hand, it won’t disappoint you in highway and urban situations either, it is sporty and nimble when called upon to pass a truck or bus in the hills, and a fairly comfortable ride around town. The common rail diesel engine gives it plenty of pep with either manual or automatic transmission, and the 7 passenger capacity offers ideal seating configurations for families on the go. The rear wheel drive SUV can be switched on the fly to all-wheel drive (4 high) and has 4×4 low range capacity too.
AWD versus 4x4 Low Range
Click to see our article: Do I need 4×4 low range or All Wheel Drive Traction?
Toyota Fortuner History / Features
The Toyota Fortuner was introduced in Costa Rica in the 2007 year model. Prior to this Toyota offered the Land Cruiser Prado and 4runner here, and the Fortuner basically replaced the 4runner in that segment. The Land Cruiser Prado is more stylish and intended to appeal more to clients that want comfort and performance on highway driving and around town, whereas the Fortuner will appeal to the younger and more adventure oriented segment.
The Toyota Fortuner is the same platform as the 4 door Toyota Hilux pickup that received a makeover at the same time, the main difference of course being the cabin configuration and the rear suspension, which on the Hilux is tuned for cargo capacity and in the Forturner set up for passenger comfort and better handling.
The 2007 Toyota Fortuner was equipped with the DiD4 common rail injection engine at 3000cc of displacement, the turbo charged engine offers superior torque for situations where you need to use the 4×4 low range, and at the same time offers superior acceleration from a stop or in highway driving.
This is due to the common rail technology, that improves fuel economy and performance at the same time, a very unusual innovation in that respect as most modifications that improve performance sacrifice fuel economy.
With diesel fuel being 20 to 30% less than gasoline, the Fortuner is less expensive to operate and the range on a full tank can approach 700 kilometers.
The 2007 models have 5 passenger capacity, but 2008 and later models offer 3rd row seats that fold up to the side when not in use. The Fortuner is offered with 2 options packages available, the base version and the limited version, often designated SRV.
All versions will have a minimum of creature comforts in an SUV that is in the luxury category price-wise – power windows and door locks, adjustable mirrors, A/C, dual air bags (SRS), ABS brakes, 12v power plug, center console and a basic factory radio head unit. Otherwise the base version is very utilitarian, with not much wow factor other than the modernized dash and sleek design.
The limited edition, which sometimes carries the SRV badge, offers improved instrument panel display, digital A/C often with dual zones and roof top vent for 2nd and 3rd row passengers, leather seats, and power assisted driver’s seat.
Later models do get some important features even in the base version, additional SRS, steering wheel controls for calls and music, Vehicle Stability Control functions and improved upholstery.
2007 Fortuner Gallery
2016 Fortuner Gallery
2020 Fortuner Gallery
Toyota Fortuner Parts and Repairs
These SUVs are hugely popular in Costa Rica. Purdy Motors is historically one of the best dealers, if not the best. Parts are readily available nationwide and mechanics know them very well. Parts are a good value, being reasonably priced and high quality in general. more expensive than some brands, but higher quality.
Pricing
This is a good value, particularly compared to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. When new, they are generally about $10,000 less (comparing both base versions)
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport offers more options for similar pricing and similar performance, but parts are more expensive which is a factor when considering the value as a used car.
Advantages:
Superior off-road capability compared to most SUVs, 7 passenger capacity and ample rear cargo area, easy to maintain and inexpensive to operate, sporty look and feel when driving.
Disadvantages
The early models have less leg and head room than other options for tall or large drivers, the 3rd row seating configuration is good for kids, but not comfortable for adults particularly for longer trips.
It has fewer included options than many other SUVs, given the price range. Some find the Fortuner name sounds a bit corny.