Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines review: Bold stance and macho looks

Updated Mar 01, 2021

User's: 4.5/5
Find out latest price, specs, interior, exterior, pros & cons and release date in our full-scale review for the Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines.

In this review...

  1. Introduction
  2. Exterior
  3. Interior
  4. Safety & Security
  5. Performance
  6. Specsheet
  7. Price list
  8. Pros & Cons
  9. Verdict

1. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines: Introduction

Famed for reliable and highly stable vehicles all over the world as well as in the Philippines for years, Toyota has never let fans down. In a big family full of celebs, today, Philkotse would like to introduce you to a remarkable SUV in the name of Toyota Fortuner.

In the Philippine car market, the Fortuner is now available in five variants with different equipment and engine options. However, in this in-depth Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines Review, we want to put all our focus on the Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V 4x2 AT. In spite of not being the top-spec model, it has still accumulated praise and fondness of many Pinoys thanks to its performance, attainability and reliability.

So, let’s analyze together what the all-new Toyota Fortuner exactly has to offer.

first generation toyota fortuner angular frontsecond generation toyota fortuner angular front

First generation vs. Second generation Toyota Fortuner

The All new Toyota Fortuner 2018

>>> Recommended for you: Toyota Fortuner 2019 Philippines: Rumor has it that…

2. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines: Exterior Review

Toyota has managed to give the Toyota Fortuner 2018 exterior a more macho and premium appearance, which manifests an amalgamation of toughness and elegance. If having to choose a word to depict that look, perhaps “modern” is enough. Not as futuristic as others SUVs, the Fortuner impresses us with its practical traits that hide an amazing capacity.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 front fascia

The Fortuner 2018 owns a modern look

Let’s start your gaze on the side. Two athletic characters flowing along the car’s length underline the commanding stance besides the help of new “floating” windows and brawny 18-inch alloy wheels.

Paying much attention to the Fortuner, many of you must have realized the handsome boy now has a longer bonnet and a new “nose.” Accordingly, the front-end receives a redesigned grille decked with a massive “Toyota” emblem in the center. On top of that, sophisticated headlamps also donate “large sums” to the good-looking face.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 angular front

 

The Fortuner impresses us with its practical traits that hide an amazing capacity

As for the rear profile, the Fortuner knows the way to follow the current trend. That means it also features a single strip along the width of the vehicle. In the same way, the chrome one over the number plate is combined perfectly with the taillight cluster. All extremely look good.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 angular rear

The rear features a single strip along the width of the vehicle

YOU MAY WANT TO READ

Subaru Outback

Subaru Outback

Model Price Philippines

₱ 2,480,000

Ford Expedition

Ford Expedition

Model Price Philippines

₱ 4,479,000 - ₱ 4,612,000

Audi Q8

Audi Q8

Model Price Philippines

Price available upon request

3. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines: Interior Review

For the most part, the Toyota Fortuner 2018 interior is one of the most purified in SUV segment. To be honest, pushing back Japanese brands in the matter of luxury is a hard task. What should we say when everything here is nice: leather, stitching and even plastic? These soft materials make the cabin soothing in each and every bit.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 interior

The Fortuner 2018 interior is one of the most purified in SUV segment

However, what really whets our appetite is the center console’s faux wood. It’s fake in essence, you know? But in fact, it does not look and feel fake at all. This actually differentiates the Fortuner from most of its rivals in the market. A perfect knockoff, we think so.

As well as that, a strapping 3-spoke steering wheel, modern and legible gauges along with polished trim complete the Fortuner’s premium makeover.

High-tech features contains a 6.5-inch capacitive touch control compatible with CD, DVD, Tuner, Call Function System alongside Audio Streaming with a set of 6 speakers. Besides, Aux, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports are fully set up.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 seating

This "Fortune" can carry up to seven passengers

A premium cabin doesn’t signify that it is not comfortable and spacious. As compared to the previous Fortuner, the 2018 model has gone far beyond. To cite an example, this "Fortune" can carry up to seven passengers. Concerning the front seats, it can be automatically adjusted for propel reach and height. Moving to the second row, legroom is enough, even for tall adults. Thanks to the center armrest, this row can comfortably cater two passengers.

Sadly, occupants at the third row can only park themselves when the armrest has been folded. Nevertheless, it still has some good points. For instances, accessing to the third row is very easy and the legroom is somehow enhanced (but it’s not very commodious except when you let the second row down). Whatever, air is enough for all passengers at all three row seats owing to large and big windows. To a great extent, cushions at vital positions are definitely a plus point for the SUV, which again give the car a premium feel.

There is nothing to worry about the cargo space, even with the third row used.

Other extra features include air-conditioning system with automatic climate control, cup holders, paddle shifters for sport mode and cruise control.

4. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Review: Safety & Security

Toyota always gives prominence to safety aspect, so the all-new Fortuner is built to protect and withstand passengers from inside. Therefore, feel assured when you’re behind the wheel under the protection of a wide host of features, including:

  • Airbags (Driver’s, Front Passenger’s and Knee Airbag)
  • Electronic Brake Distribution
  • Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
  • Immobilizer
  • Security Alarm
  • Electronic Door Locks
  • Speed Sensing Door Locks
  • ISOFIX

Toyota Fortuner 2018 airbags system

The 2018 Toyota Fortuner is built to protect and withstand passengers from inside

5. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Review: Performance

The Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V 4x2 AT, as its name evokes, packs a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder diesel mill which doles out 147 hp and a peak torque of 400 Nm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic with sequential control. Though the total output is not as high as that of other contenders, the engine still provides smooth, even performance and acceleration.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 engine bay

The Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V 4x2 V AT packs a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder diesel mill

As the saying goes, the new Fortuner is actually a talented player in SUV segment when it comes to ride and handling. Maybe the first-gen Fortuner did make you bitterly disappointed by its ride quality. Nonetheless, for 2018, it’s a markedly different story.

Toyota Fortuner 2018 front view

The new Fortuner is actually a talented player in SUV segment

Point by point, the noise level is remarkably reduced. Plus, occupants at the back will feel more comfortable on bumpy roads. You might be surprised when looking at the way our “Fortune” handles: far more nimble and agile than you’ve expected. It could be said with certainty that the Fortuner’s ride is illustrative of a standard mid-size SUV in the market today.

If you want to challenge the Fortuner to harsher terrains, turn the Power Mode on and enjoy the ride. On the other hand, if you’re an eco-friendly driver, try the Eco Mode. On average, the car gives decent fuel consumption of 11.2 km/L in mixed city and highway. Not bad, right?

6. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Specs in the Philippines

Toyota Fortuner 2018 Specs in the Philippines
Overall
Name Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V Diesel 4x2 AT
Body Type SUV
Price ₱1,833,000
Transmission Type Automatic
Dimensions
Length 4,795 mm
Width 1,855 mm
Height 1,835 mm
Wheelbase 2,745 mm
Ground Clearance 193 mm
Turning Circle 11.6 mm
Numbers of Doors 5
Numbers of Seats 7
Engine
Engine Size 2.4 L
Displacement 2,393 cc
Numbers of Cylinders 4
Numbers of Valves 16
Transmission Category 6-Speed Automatic with Sequential Control
Performance
Powertrain Rear Wheel Drive
Max Output 147 hp @ 3,400 rpm
Max Torque 400 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity 80 L
Features
Cruise Control Yes
Rear Parking Sensors Yes
Leather Upholstery Yes
Push Start Button Yes
Wheel Size 18 inches
Wheels Material Alloy
Airconditioning System Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control
Entertainment System
  • 6.5-inch Capacitive Screen
  • DVD
  • CD
  • Tuner
  • Call Function
  • Audio Streaming
  • 6 Speakers
Connectivity
  • AUX
  • USB
  • Bluetooth
  • iPod
Navigation System Yes
Keyless Entry Yes
Roof Rack Yes
Power Steering Yes
Power Windows Yes
Power Outlet Yes
Power Liftgate Yes
Steering Wheel Audio Control Yes
Safety Features
Driver's Airbag Yes
Front Passenger's Airbag Yes
Knee Airbag Yes
Electronic Brake Distribution Yes
ABS Yes, with EBD
Immobilizer Yes
Security Alarm Yes
Electronic Door Locks Yes
Speed Sensing Door Locks Yes
ISOFIX Yes

7. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Price list & Release date in the Philippines

Back in September 2017, only by giving the Fortuner a few refinements, Toyota has increased its pricing by as much as P100,000. You can read our article here for further details of what improvements have been added to the current generation Fortuner.

Below are the latest price of the Toyota Fortuner in the Philippines:

Toyota Fortuner 2018 price in the Philippines
Model Price
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 G Diesel 4x2 MT P1,592,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.7 G Gas 4x2 AT  P1,597,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 G Diesel 4x2 AT  P1,682,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V Diesel 4x2 AT  P1,906,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V Diesel 4x2 AT (White Pearl)  P1,921,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 TRD Diesel AT (White Pearl) P1,791,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 TRD Diesel AT P1,776,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 V Diesel 4x4 AT  P2,245,000
 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 V Diesel 4x4 AT (White Pearl)  P2,260,000

By the way, we want to discuss a little bit the Fortuner 2018 (facelift) in Australian market. Worth noting is that the Australia-spec Fortuner will be spoiled with a bevy of extra equipment while the price is slightly cut down. In detail:

  • The entry-level trim will receive 17-inch alloys, projector headlights, LED taillights, 6 speakers, fabric trim, 3 12V sockets, a multi-function steering wheel and air-conditioned cool box.
  • The mid-range model comes with all of the features above in addition to enhanced infotainment system with Toyota link app compatibility, digital radio and satellite navigation system.
  • The range-topping grade is coddled the most with LED fog lamps, bi-LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, a full-size spare tire, a power tailgate, leather trim, heated 8-way adjustable front seats, climate control, 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 220V socket.

The Australia-spec Fortuner has already been kicked off from $42,590 - $56,990 (P1,714,021 - P2,293,545). Concerning the Toyota Fortuner 2018 release date of the facelift version for the Philippine market, details of it has remained secret but we’ll immediately reflect on the 2018 model year as soon as it lands on our shores. Stay tuned!

>>> Recommended for you: Toyota Fortuner 2018 for sale

8. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Review: Pros & Cons

 Toyota Fortuner 2018 Review: Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Responsive engine
  • Good visibility
  • Commodious cabin
  • Appealing design
  • Great on- and off-road performance
Cons
  • Need much room for the last row bench
  • The ride is bouncy and not very firm compared to other competitors

>>> You may also read: Toyota Fortuner 2017 Review

9. Toyota Fortuner 2018 Philippines: Verdict

Overtly, the ride quality of the Toyota Fortuner 2.4 V 4x2 AT somehow does not live up to expectations. However, it’s might be the only shortcoming. The rest of the car is indeed the best in class. Macho look, functional and premium cabin, impressive handling and performance are what make you can’t resist the all new Toyota Fortuner 2018, not to mention Toyota’s reliability.

In our country, the Isuzu MU-X is a serious competitor to the Fortuner. Offered with a wider price range, the 7-seater from Isuzu is also worth of your consideration if you are into large-sized vehicles. Click here to find our comparison review of Isuzu MU-X vs. Toyota Fortuner.

At last, hope that our Toyota Fortuner 2018 Review has given you enough words on this lovable SUV. If you intend to set your heart on it, rush to the nearest dealer right now, or else refer to the complete list of Toyota Fortuner for sale in the Philippines on Philkotse.com to find a good one.

ALTERNATIVE REVIEWS TO THE 2024 Toyota Fortuner