For the adventure-seeker

there is no compromise!

Toyota has announced the introduction of the Fortuner “Epic”, a limited edition model of South Africa’s top selling SUV. The introduction of the Fortuner “Epic” follows on the styling changes incorporated in the diesel models introduced earlier this year and adds a number of cosmetic elements to that package for the 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine Raised Body Automatic and 4X4 Automatic “Epic” models.

The Fortuner "Epic" is visually enhanced by a front Nudge Bar finished in black with "Epic" logo, stainless steel side steps with “Epic” logo, a black grille, towbar finished in black, and a Fortuner “Epic” logo at the rear. The rear bumper sill protector and number plate backing are finished in black. Paint colours are limited to Glacier White, Sterling Silver Metallic, and Sahara Gold Metallic.

Added to the interior package is an embroidered carpet set with contrasting stitching and binding, and an embroidered load area mat in the same theme.

The limited edition Fortuner "Epic" package builds on the interior and exterior specification changes incorporated on the Diesel models earlier this year and now made available on the 4.0 V6 Fortuner “Epic” as well. These offer both styling and functional improvements and include a revised frontal treatment with a new headlamp design and a new design for the rear combination lamps. Side mirrors are now power retractable and the size of the alloy wheels in increased from 16 inch to 17 inch diameter fitted with 265/65 R17 tyres.

Functional items added to the interior specification include 6-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat; a dual system (split front and rear) auto-airconditioner with climate control and improved air distribution to the third seat position; and steering wheel mounted satellite controls for the audio system. Cruise control is also included in the specification.

Aesthetic improvements include wood panel inserts for the centre cluster and power window switch surrounds, and a larger vanity mirror with cover. Seat covers are "Sand Beige".

Side and curtain shield airbags are fitted to all models in the range. Fuel tank capacity is increased by 23% for extended range, a feature that will be welcomed by those owners that use their vehicles in remote areas. Fuel tank capacity is now 80 litres, a 15-litre improvement over the original tank capacity.

The Fortuner has established itself as South Africa’s most popular SUV based on its no compromise configuration and specification together with its strong family ties to the Hilux and that vehicle’s proven record of quality, durability, and reliability.

During 2008 the Fortuner recorded sales of 7193 to rank ninth in the top ten list of passenger vehicles for the year. The popularity of the Fortuner is perhaps best gauged by the fact that it outsold its nearest competitor by a factor of more than 3,5:1. The continued demand for the Fortuner has taken total sales in South Africa since introduction in 2006 past 20 000 units.

The Fortuner Epic is incorporated in the core 5-model range that offers a choice of 4.0 litre V6 petrol or 3.0 litre D-4D diesel engines and choice of Raised Body 4X2 or 4X4 driveline. Both the Fortuner Epic Raised Body and 4X4 V6 4.0 models are fitted with an advanced 5-speed electronically controlled “intelligent” automatic transmission.

The 1GR-FE 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine produces 175 kW with maximum torque of 376 Nm. The 3.0 D-4D diesel engine produces 120 kW with maximum torque of 343 Nm.

“Since its arrival on the South African market in 2006 as an element of Toyota Motor Corporation’s global IMV project, the Fortuner has established itself as the most popular SUV in South Africa,” says Andrew Kirby, Toyota’s Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “This popularity is based on the exceptional value proposition offered by the Fortuner, with its no compromise format, together with Toyota’s solid reputation for low whole life ownership costs, including high retained value on resale.

"The Fortuner has distinguished itself with its ranking in the top ten best selling passenger vehicles in South Africa and has been in strong demand since introduction. This popularity extends to the demand for the Fortuner in export markets as well."