Toyota has launched the mild hybrid variant of the Fortuner and Legender called Neo Drive 48V. The talking point here is the 48 volt system which features a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. This hybrid assist aims to give smoother low-end acceleration, more refinement and better efficiency. This is a mild hybrid and the battery is charged during deceleration while there is a new Smart Idle Start-Stop function which will also increase fuel efficiency. There is also a torque assist which means better acceleration.

 

 

Plus the Neo 48V variants also  have a new Multi-Terrain Select system which adjusts throttle response, braking, and traction control for better performance across various terrains. Other additions include a 360 degree camera and a wireless charger. The Fortuner Neo Drive hybrid 48V is priced at Rs 44.7 lakh while the Legender Neo Drive 48V is priced at Rs 50,09,000. This variant will mean more efficiency and better performance although the exact numbers have not been revealed. This would be sold alongside the existing Fortuner variants while the extra feature additions also help here.

 

 

The mild hybrid Fortuner is the first step towards electrification for the brand in terms of its diesel SUV range. The price difference between the standard Fortuner diesel and this new variant is quite high though but the extra feature list does justify it to some extent although how refined and how much better the fuel efficiency  efficiency is when compared to the standard model is something we will see when we drive it.