2006 Toyota Fortuner 2.7V 2.7 I4 DOHC VVTi
Summary:
Overall the best SUV, if you don't care about its mediocre fuel consumption
Faults:
Perhaps too early to say this considering my short ownership, 2 years... but there is nothing wrong with the car. Maybe the previous owner is some kind of a CEO, not often traveling long distance... my friends were also shocked that I really got a 'like new' 11 year old Fortuner...
Sluggish when climbing high hills with pavement... maybe air filter/spark plug/head gasket needs replacing.
General Comments:
2 years of ownership, all I can say is I love my Fortuner. No major repairs so far, only wear and tear parts replaced. Also general maintenance like engine oil replaced every 10000km, 10w-40 for protection. Also the 2TR-FE engine is really reliable; there's reason Toyota used the SAME engine again on their 2nd gen 2016 Fortuner.
Design wise, a very macho look. It's a looker even for a 2005 SUV. Many on the road would 'give way' to the Fortuner due to amazing road presence. My black Fortuner, the windows tinted black, put that state logo on plate number; a 'VIP' indeed. Besides, this car earned its reputation here in Malaysia as an official government car. Anyone would mistake any passing Fortuner as one of the government cars. Also it dwarfs even big MPVs such as the 1st gen Innova with its great road presence.
Comfort wise, among the best I ever sat in; the similar Innova can't provide such comfort. But the Fortuner's comfort can't compete with the Harrier's.
Middle seat is shockingly, very spacious. Even when the rear seat is occupied with middle sized adults. Rear seats are comfortable enough for middle sized adults.
Sound insulation could be better though.
Also the ride can very bumpy on very uneven roads, but my friends that have sat in my Fortuner praise the ride quality.
Boot space, with rear seats folded, is as close as enclosed Hilux SR rear storage.
Handling, among the sharpest turning angle of all SUVS, but don't try sudden sharp cornering at high speeds (70-80kmh). You will end up cornering at a bigger angle, resulting in possible 'offroading' to the other side. That only sedans can do that, normally.
Normal circumstances, it's a pleasure to handle.
High speed cruising also great. I heard about instability due to its very high ground clearance, but I don't feel any.
Fuel consumption is its worst aspect. 65L gives 500km or less, mixed driving. But overtaking performance is a breeze, so I don't worry much about that.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 11th September, 2019