The Toyota Fortuner mild hybrid has launched in India, with prices starting at Rs 44.72 lakh. Badged as Neo Drive by Toyota India – the same nomenclature is used for the Hyryder and Glanza’s mild-hybrid variants – the mild-hybrid tech has also been introduced in the Legender variant, and is priced at Rs 50.09 lakh. The Japanese brand has confirmed bookings for the mild-hybrid variants open today, and deliveries are scheduled from the third week of this month.
The new mild hybrid variants sit high on the Fortuner’s range, with just the GR-S variant priced higher. Compared to the Fortuner and Legender 4×4 AT variants, their respective mild-hybrid versions are priced Rs 2 lakh more.
Toyota Fortuner mild hybrid tech explained
Same 2.8-litre diesel engine gets 48V hybrid assist
The same 204hp, 500Nm 2.8-litre diesel engine now gets assistance from a 48V hybrid system that includes a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery. The system enables auto start-stop that enhances fuel-efficiency, and is also said to deliver smoother low-end acceleration, along with a quieter drive.
A 360-degree camera is on offer with the mild-hybrid variants
While there are no changes to the exterior– other than a Neo Drive badge – or the interior – the dual-tone leather upholstery, etc continue – the features list has seen an upgrade. Along with 7 airbags, hill ascent and descent assist, a traction control system), and ISOFIX mounts, the Neo Drive variants get a 360-degree camera.