Just months after Toyota officially unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux in November 2025, the next big development is already underway. The first spy photos of the new generation Toyota Fortuner have now surfaced online, which has been spotted testing in Thailand. Given that the Fortuner shares its underpinnings with the Hilux, this scene was only a matter of time. The heavily camouflaged test mule suggests Toyota is preparing for a global debut later this year.
Built on New Hilux Platform
The new Fortuner is expected to be based on the same advanced IMV ladder-frame architecture that underpins the latest Hilux. With the Hilux entering the electrified era offering diesel, petrol, 48V hybrid, BEV and even hydrogen fuel-cell variants globally, the Fortuner is also likely to follow a multi-path powertrain strategy – at least in international markets. However, for India, Toyota may stick to conventional petrol and diesel engines initially, with hybrid or electrified variants possibly coming at a later stage.
Design – evolution, not revolution
Although the test mule is heavily hidden, some details still emerge:
– More straight and square rear profile
– Revised tail lamp design
– broad stance
– Newly designed rear bumper
– slightly higher muscle ratio
The front end is expected to adopt Toyota’s latest design language, which will likely feature slimmer headlamps and a more aggressive grille similar to the new Hilux. Staying in line with the strong SUV DNA of the Fortuner, the overall silhouette is expected to remain boxy and imposing.
Internal and technical upgrades required
Just as the new Hilux gets a comprehensively upgraded cabin, the new Fortuner may also get a 12.3-inch fully digital driver display and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. It also benefits from the updated Toyota Safety Sense suite with advanced driver assistance features, electric power steering for improved maneuverability and over-the-air (OTA) software updates to keep the system operational throughout the vehicle’s entire life cycle.
The next-generation Fortuner is also expected to get similar updates, which will be one of the biggest interior upgrades in its history. ADAS features, better connectivity and more premium content are likely. The current Fortuner, although a best-seller, is often criticized for its lack of technology and features, including ADAS. The new Fortuner is expected to come in a modern avatar as a fully feature-packed SUV.
powertrain expectations
Internationally, the new-generation Hilux is offered with a wide range of powertrain options including a 2.8-litre diesel, 2.7-litre petrol, 48V mild-hybrid diesel system, a fully electric (BEV) version and even a hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) version as part of Toyota’s multi-path strategy.
However, for the Indian market, the new Fortuner is likely to be initially launched with the familiar 2.8-litre diesel engine, available with both manual and automatic transmissions, as well as the 2.7-litre petrol paired with an automatic gearbox. Electrified variants such as mild-hybrid may be introduced at a later stage depending on the market response and regulatory requirements.
Depending on market response and regulatory requirements, Toyota may introduce a 48V mild-hybrid diesel at a later date. A full EV Fortuner is unlikely in the immediate future for India, although Toyota’s global strategy indicates that electrification will eventually expand to all major models.
Launch Timeline
Already undergoing testing in Thailand, the global debut of the new generation Fortuner is expected by mid-2026. The India launch could happen soon, possibly by the end of 2026. Given the strong dominance of the Fortuner in the full-size SUV segment in India, this generational update is highly anticipated. More details are expected to emerge as additional test mules hit the road in the coming months.
