The Toyota Fortuner, launched in 2005, quickly became a popular choice in the mid-size SUV segment, particularly in markets outside of North America. The first generation (often referred to as the Fortuner I) underwent a significant facelift in 2008, bringing updated styling and minor mechanical revisions. This article focuses on the 2.7-liter, 158 horsepower (HP) version of the facelifted Fortuner, equipped with a four-wheel drive (4WD) system and an automatic transmission, produced between 2008 and 2011. This configuration represented a middle-ground offering within the Fortuner lineup, balancing capability with relative affordability and ease of use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Fortuner |
| Generation | Fortuner I (facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (158 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 85.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 158 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 241 Nm @ 3800 rpm (177.75 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2TR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2694 cm3 (164.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.1 l (8.56 US qt | 7.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 221 mm (8.7 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 23° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2008 facelift of the Toyota Fortuner brought a refreshed look and subtle improvements to Toyota’s popular body-on-frame SUV. Built on the Hilux platform, the Fortuner was designed to offer the ruggedness and reliability of a pickup truck with the comfort and practicality of an SUV. The 2.7-liter 4WD Automatic variant occupied a middle position in the Fortuner range, appealing to buyers who desired all-wheel drive capability for occasional off-road excursions but didn’t require the higher performance of the 4.0-liter V6 engine. It was primarily sold in markets like Southeast Asia, Australia, South Africa, and parts of South America, where demand for robust, seven-seater SUVs was high.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fortuner variant is the 2TR-FE engine, a 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system, which optimizes valve timing for improved fuel efficiency and power delivery. The 2TR-FE employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produces 158 HP at 5200 rpm and 241 Nm (177.75 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm.
The engine is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission by today’s standards, it was a reliable unit designed to handle the Fortuner’s weight and torque. The automatic transmission was chosen to provide ease of use, particularly in urban driving conditions, and to broaden the Fortuner’s appeal to a wider range of buyers. The 4WD system is a part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is reasonably brisk for everyday driving, but the Fortuner doesn’t feel particularly quick. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and smooth operation rather than outright performance. Compared to the 4.0-liter V6, the 2.7-liter feels noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the 2.7-liter offers a more manageable fuel consumption figure. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it suitable for light off-road driving, but it’s not intended for serious rock crawling or extreme off-roading. The Fortuner’s body-on-frame construction results in a somewhat truck-like ride quality, with noticeable body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7-liter 4WD Automatic Fortuner typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system (often with CD player and AM/FM radio), and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a sunroof, leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, and upgraded audio systems with more speakers and connectivity options. Safety features typically included ABS brakes and dual front airbags. The interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Fortuner’s chassis is a traditional body-on-frame design, providing robust strength and durability. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle with coil springs. This suspension configuration is designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. While adequate for most driving situations, the rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure and didn’t offer the same stopping power as disc brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.7-liter 4WD Automatic Fortuner was generally well-received in its target markets. Critics praised its reliability, ruggedness, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the somewhat dated four-speed automatic transmission. Compared to the 4.0-liter V6, the 2.7-liter offered better fuel economy but significantly less performance. Compared to competitors like the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Isuzu MU-X, the Fortuner was often seen as a more reliable and durable option, although some competitors offered more refined interiors or more advanced features.
Legacy
The 2TR-FE engine has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powerplant, and examples of this engine continue to operate reliably with proper maintenance. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern transmissions, is also known for its robustness. In the used car market, the 2008-2011 Fortuner 2.7 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and capable SUV. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it easier and less expensive to maintain compared to more complex modern SUVs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters or coastal environments.
