After nearly ten years, the Toyota Fortuner is finally getting a full redesign. Test mules have been spotted, and they point to a boxier, more modern SUV that takes a lot from the new Hilux pickup. If you've been holding off on a Fortuner, here's the real question: buy the current one now, or wait for the 2027 model? Let's break down what's coming.
Why this update matters to you
The current Fortuner has been on sale since 2016. That's a very long run by modern car standards. Over that decade it stayed India's default big body-on-frame SUV (built on a tough truck-like frame, not a car platform). Rivals like the MG Majestor and Kia Sorento have tried to chip away at it. A full redesign means Toyota wants to keep that crown for another decade. For buyers, it means fresher looks, more features, and likely a cleaner hybrid option, but also a higher price.
Toyota Fortuner
SUVWhat the 2027 Fortuner will look like
Expect a big design change. The new Fortuner moves to a squarer, boxier shape with a more upright front pillar, giving it a tougher, SUV-truck look. Up front, there are slim LED headlamps with LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and a large honeycomb-style grille, straight off the Hilux. The 'TOYOTA' lettering may even replace the usual logo on the grille. At the back, a connected LED taillamp strip running the full width is expected, plus a flatter, more square tailgate. New alloy wheels, roof rails, and a sharkfin antenna round off the look.
Cabin and features: finally a big screen?
The inside is where the current Fortuner feels its age the most. The 2027 model is expected to fix that in a big way. Look for a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, a fully digital instrument cluster (the screen behind the steering), and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A sunroof, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats are also likely. On safety, Toyota is expected to add a Level-2 ADAS suite (safety tech that can brake and steer-correct for you), a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, and ESC and TPMS (tire pressure monitoring). None of the safety kits are confirmed yet, so treat them as expected.
Toyota Innova Hycross
MUV/MPVEngine and hybrid: what's under the bonnet?
The big mechanical question is the hybrid. The 2027 Fortuner may keep the current 2.8-liter diesel engine, which is proven and strong. But a strong hybrid version (petrol engine paired with an electric motor for better mileage) is also expected to be on offer. The current 2.7-liter petrol's future is unclear. Given the Fortuner's rugged image, Toyota should keep offering four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case (extra gearing for serious off-road and steep climbs). So it should stay a proper go-anywhere SUV, not a soft road-only one.
Price and launch: when and how much
The new Fortuner is set for a global reveal in early 2027. India should get it in the second half of 2027. Expected pricing starts from about ₹40 lakh (ex-showroom), which means on-road prices will be higher once you add road tax, registration, and insurance (this varies by state). That's a step up from where the Fortuner has sat, but in line with the current car's upper trims. The Fortuner Legender, the fancier version, already costs ₹43.35 to ₹48.77 lakh, so the new model simply shifts the whole range up.
2027 Fortuner vs. its rivals
The next Fortuner will take on the MG Majestor, priced at ₹42.49 to ₹44.99 lakh, which sits right in Fortuner territory. It also becomes an alternative to car-platform (monocoque) SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Kia Sorento (₹27.99 to ₹40.39 lakh). Here's the real split: the Fortuner and Majestor are tough body-on-frame SUVs built for bad roads and towing. The Kodiaq and Sorento ride smoother and feel more car-like inside but can't match the Fortuner off-road or in resale. So your choice comes down to whether you value ruggedness or ride comfort.
MG Majestor
SUVBuy now or wait for the 2027 model?
If you want a Fortuner and don't need it urgently, waiting makes sense. The 2027 car brings a modern cabin, likely a cleaner hybrid and ADAS, all areas where the current SUV lags. But that's still a year away, with the India launch only in late 2027. If you need a big, reliable SUV today, the current Fortuner remains a solid, dependable buy with rock-solid resale. Just know a redesigned version is coming, which may soften resale on the outgoing model slightly.
FAQs
When will the 2027 Toyota Fortuner launch in India?
A global reveal is expected in early 2027, with the India launch likely in the second half of 2027. Toyota has not confirmed an exact date yet.
How much will the new Fortuner cost?
Pricing is expected to start from about ₹40 lakh (ex-showroom). On-road prices will be higher after road tax, registration, and insurance, which vary by state.
Will the 2027 Fortuner get a hybrid?
A strong-hybrid version (petrol engine with an electric motor) is expected to be on offer, alongside the current 2.8-liter diesel. This isn't confirmed yet, so treat it as likely.
Should I buy the current Fortuner or wait?
If you can wait, the 2027 model brings a modern cabin, ADAS, and likely a hybrid. If you need a dependable big SUV now, the current Fortuner is still a strong, proven buy.
