New-Generation Toyota Fortuner has been spotted testing for the first time, signalling the early stages of development for one of India’s most popular full-size SUVs. The test mule was photographed in Thailand and shows the rear section of a heavily camouflaged vehicle, believed to be the upcoming Fortuner based on Toyota’s latest global product cycle.
The sighting follows the global debut of the ninth-generation Hilux in November last year. Given Toyota’s long-standing strategy of pairing the Hilux and Fortuner on shared platforms, the appearance of a new Fortuner prototype was widely expected.
Toyota is likely to unveil the New-Generation Toyota Fortuner globally by mid-2026, with an India launch expected towards the end of the same year.
Also Read: 7-Seat Renault SUV Spotted Testing in India Ahead of Expected 2026 Launch
New-Generation Toyota Fortuner- What the Spy Shot Reveals
Although the test mule is fully camouflaged, a few design cues are visible. The new Fortuner appears to have a wider stance than the outgoing model. The rear profile looks more upright and squared-off, suggesting a stronger and more imposing road presence.
The tail-lamp cluster seems to be completely new, with the possibility of a connected LED light bar, a feature now common in newer SUVs. The rear bumper also appears to be redesigned.
The boxier proportions at the rear hint at improved interior space and possibly better boot usability, an area where three-row SUV buyers place high importance.
Front Design Likely Inspired by the New Hilux
Toyota is expected to align the Fortuner’s front design with the ninth-generation Hilux, which introduced a sharper and more aggressive look. The new Hilux features what Toyota describes as a “Cyber Sumo” design philosophy, with sleeker headlamps, a bold grille, and a muscular bumper.
A similar treatment on the Fortuner would modernise its appearance and help it stay competitive against newer rivals in the D-segment SUV space.
Details of the side profile are not yet visible, but it is expected to retain a boxy and upright silhouette, consistent with the Fortuner’s rugged image.
Big Cabin Upgrades Expected
One of the biggest expectations from the New-Generation Toyota Fortuner is a significant interior upgrade. The current model has often been criticised for lacking features that are now common in more affordable SUVs. The upcoming version is likely to address this gap.
Expected upgrades include a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, improved connected car technology, over-the-air updates, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Toyota may also introduce electric power steering to improve ease of driving, especially in urban conditions.
Platform and Powertrain Outlook
While there has been speculation about a shift to Toyota’s TNGA platform, the New-Generation Toyota Fortuner is more likely to be based on the upgraded IMV platform that underpins the latest Hilux. This revised architecture is expected to offer improved ride comfort, safety, and overall refinement, along with a reworked suspension setup.
For India, Toyota is expected to continue with familiar petrol and diesel engines. These include the 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and the widely preferred 2.8-litre turbo-diesel.
Manual and automatic gearboxes are likely for the diesel, while the petrol may remain automatic-only. Toyota could also introduce a 48V mild-hybrid diesel option, aligning with its broader electrification strategy.
Conclusion
The New-Generation Toyota Fortuner is shaping up to be a much more modern and feature-rich SUV while retaining its proven mechanical package.
For Indian buyers, this update could finally bridge the gap between the Fortuner’s strong brand value and the feature expectations of today’s SUV market.
More details are expected as additional test mules surface in the coming months.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on spy images and publicly available details at the time of publication. Specifications, features, and timelines may change at the manufacturer’s discretion before the official launch.
Also Read: Hyundai Bayon-Based Compact SUV Spotted Testing in India, Launch by 2026
Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.