Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched the Fortuner NEO Drive and Legender NEO Drive variants in India, introducing a 48V mild-hybrid system for the first time in this segment. Priced at ₹44.72 lakh for the Fortuner and ₹50.09 lakh for the Legender (ex-showroom), these new variants aim to inject a fresh dose of tech into the long-standing Fortuner lineup, which has remained largely unchanged since its 2021 facelift.
The Fortuner NEO Drive uses the same 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that puts out 204hp and 500Nm of torque. However, this engine is now assisted by a 48V mild-hybrid setup, which includes a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery. While this isn’t a full hybrid, the system adds idle start-stop, regenerative braking, and improved low-end torque—contributing to a smoother and quieter drive.
Toyota Fortuner NEO Drive – Powertrain and Efficiency
The Fortuner NEO Drive variants are offered only with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 4×4 drivetrain. Toyota has not introduced a manual or 4×2 option for these models. Although Toyota claims improved fuel efficiency, no official mileage figures have been revealed at launch.
The mild-hybrid system is a notable mechanical upgrade that enhances driveability in urban environments. It’s worth noting that this isn’t a dramatic mechanical overhaul but rather a smart update to keep the Fortuner relevant in a market moving towards electrification.
Toyota Fortuner NEO Drive – Design and Features
Visually, the Fortuner NEO Drive maintains its iconic butch and upright SUV stance. There are no drastic exterior changes, which means it still appeals to fans of its traditional design language. Both the Fortuner and Legender variants sit on 18-inch alloy wheels, with the Legender getting a dual-tone diamond-cut finish.
The cabin remains familiar, with the same dashboard layout and seating for seven. The Fortuner NEO Drive is available with leather upholstery in black or chamois tones, while the Legender version adds a red-black dual-tone option.
New additions include a 360-degree camera and wireless phone charging—two features long overdue in this segment. Other notable features are ventilated front seats, an 11-speaker JBL sound system, an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (still not wireless), and connected car tech that includes vehicle tracking and geofencing.
Toyota Fortuner NEO Drive – Safety and Equipment
In terms of safety, both Fortuner NEO Drive and Legender variants come equipped with seven airbags, ABS, vehicle stability control, and traction control. These SUVs remain underpinned by a robust ladder-frame chassis, known for its strength and off-road capability.
Despite the tech enhancements, Toyota has retained the core strengths of the Fortuner—rugged performance and versatility. The Legender continues to offer a dual-tone exterior option, while the Fortuner gets a broader palette with seven colour choices.
Toyota Fortuner NEO Drive – Ownership, Finance & Warranty
Toyota is backing the Fortuner NEO Drive with extensive financing options such as the Smart Balloon Finance scheme and long-term funding for up to eight years. A standard warranty of 3 years/100,000 km is offered, which can be extended to 5 years/220,000 km. Additionally, Toyota provides five years of roadside assistance and value-added services via the Toyota Smiles Plus program.
Deliveries for the new Fortuner NEO Drive variants will begin in the third week of June 2025. Bookings are now open both online and at Toyota dealerships across India.
Toyota Fortuner NEO Drive – Market Position and Rivals
While the Fortuner NEO Drive doesn’t have a direct rival offering mild-hybrid tech, it competes with the MG Gloster (diesel), and petrol-powered SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line. The Gloster is its closest diesel rival, but none of them offer Toyota’s new 48V system.
There are strong indications that a new-generation Fortuner is undergoing global testing. While Toyota hasn’t confirmed launch timelines, the Fortuner NEO Drive appears to be a strategic stopgap before that next-gen debut.