The next chapter of the Toyota Fortuner story is beginning to unfold. A heavily camouflaged prototype of the full-size SUV has been spotted testing in Thailand, offering the first substantial glimpse at what appears to be a generation upgrade rather than a routine facelift.
The timing of these sightings is significant. Toyota recently introduced the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux globally, and with both models sharing the same ladder-frame roots, it comes as no surprise that the Fortuner is now lining up for a major transformation.
Sharper design, split lighting signature
Even under thick camouflage, the test mule reveals a noticeably evolved stance. The new Fortuner appears more upright, with a flatter bonnet line and a broader-looking nose that enhances its road presence.
Up front, Toyota seems to be embracing its latest global SUV design language. Slim LED daytime running lamps sit high on the fascia, while the primary headlamp units are positioned lower in the bumper, creating a distinct split-headlamp arrangement. The grille looks larger and more vertical than before, likely featuring a bold mesh pattern, while the bumper appears more sculpted with fog lamps integrated into the lower section.
At the rear, although details are still well hidden, the silhouette suggests a squarer tailgate and a more chiselled bumper design. The tail-lamps appear slimmer than those on the current model and may feature a wraparound layout, possibly connected by a light strip depending on the final specification.
Overall, the next-generation SUV seems set to retain its tough, body-on-frame identity while adopting cleaner surfacing and more contemporary styling cues.
Updated ladder-frame underpinnings
The new Fortuner is expected to move to an updated version of Toyota’s IMV ladder-frame platform, the same architecture that underpins the latest Hilux. This revised base is designed to support multiple powertrain options globally, including electrified variants.
For India, however, Toyota is likely to continue with conventional internal combustion engines at launch, while keeping electrified options under consideration for the future.
Major cabin and tech upgrade on the cards
While the interior was not visible in the latest spy images, clues from the new Hilux provide a strong indication of what to expect. The upcoming Fortuner is likely to receive a comprehensive cabin overhaul with a far more modern layout.
Expect a fully digital driver’s display paired with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Improved connectivity, over-the-air (OTA) update capability and a more premium dashboard design are also anticipated.
Importantly, spy shots clearly show an ADAS radar module mounted in the lower bumper, along with cameras positioned behind the windscreen. This confirms the addition of Toyota Safety Sense with Level 2 driver assistance features, a significant leap forward for the Fortuner, which has often been criticised for lagging behind rivals in active safety and in-cabin technology.
Features such as a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, ventilated and powered front seats, and an electric sunroof are also expected on higher variants.
Familiar engines likely to continue
Under the bonnet, the India-spec model is expected to retain its proven engine lineup. This includes the 2.7-litre petrol and the 2.8-litre diesel, with the latter likely continuing in 48V mild-hybrid ‘Neo Drive’ form.
Transmission options should include a 6-speed manual and a torque-converter automatic, with four-wheel drive offered on select diesel variants.
Although Toyota is experimenting globally with battery-electric and even hydrogen-powered versions of its ladder-frame vehicles, the Indian market is expected to prioritise petrol and diesel powertrains, at least in the initial phase.
Launch timeline
With testing already underway and both front and rear design elements now surfacing in quick succession, development appears to be in an advanced stage. A global debut is expected around mid-2026, with the India launch likely to follow by late 2026 or early 2027.
