Toyota has launched the mild hybrid Fortuner in top-spec Legender and in standard Fortuner form. Now, the question is whether the Fortuner Neo Drive mild hybrid is worth spending the extra two lakh over the standard one. The obvious change over the standard model is the 2.8l diesel coming with a 48v mild hybrid system including a lithium ion battery.

 

That brings in smoother low speed acceleration, better efficiency and more refinement. Toyota has also thrown in extra features like 7 airbags, 360 degree camera, traction control system and more to sweeten the deal. So, is the Neo Drive variant worth the money? We will reserve our judgement on the car till the time we drive it but as on paper, the mild hybrid will bring in more refinement and smoother acceleration which would be the bigger highlight since fuel efficiency has never been the main reason why anyone buys the Fortuner.

 

 

The extra features also help which brings the Fortuner update in some areas since other SUVs have brought in a lot of technology at this price bracket or below. While there is a price increase, the tech does promise a change in the driving experience while it ultimately depends on your usage whether the mild hybrid makes sense or not. However, this variant is clear step towards electrification of the Fortuner while it also extends the viability of diesel engined SUVs. Going forward in the future we can expect more such mild hybrid diesel SUVs to come to the market.