A test mule of the eighth generation Toyota Hilux has been sped undergoing hot weather testing in Southern Europe. Alright, we don’t have provisions for lifestyle pickup trucks yet, but, the Fortuner is built on the Hilux platform.
According to the source, Toyota was benchmarking the Hilux against the Volkswagen Amarok truck. The test mule was heavily camouflaged, but a few styling elements were visible. The new model seems to ape the existing model’s simple design; however, it gets headlamps with incorporated LED units and a thin grille that makes it look less truck-like.
Although, the front of the Fortuner will look very similar to the Hilux, the rear styling will be totally different. Details are scarce, but we expect the Fortuner to get the same 3-litre engines in India as the outgoing model.
The Fortuner was a runaway success for Toyota when they launched it in 2009 with a waiting period exceeding six months. It is the most sought-after SUV in the Rs 22-25 lakh range and Toyota will expect to cash in on this following for the new model.
Source: Carscoops