Toyota to release three new Sub-Fortuner SUVs in India is now not just speculation. It seems like a calculated move. A quiet build-up. And honestly, it makes perfect sense.
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The Fortuner has enjoyed almost cult-like status in India for years. Waiting periods. Strong resale. Street presence that turns heads. Now, Toyota seems ready to recreate that formula but in slightly smaller, more accessible packages. Smart strategy. Very smart. Instead of chasing every segment blindly, Toyota appears to be filling the gaps just below its flagship SUV. Not rushing. Planning.
New Hilux Pickup With Strong SUV Appeal
Let’s start with the Toyota Hilux. Technically a pickup. But in India, it plays more like a lifestyle SUV with a cargo bed. The ninth-generation model is expected this year. And this time, it looks different. Noticeably. Toyota calls its new face the “Cyber Sumo Face.” A bit dramatic? Maybe. But the sharper grille, slimmer LED DRLs and a more aggressive bumper give it a stronger personality. It doesn’t look shy anymore. It looks ready.
Underneath, things stay familiar. The 2.8-litre turbo-diesel continues. Around 201hp. 500Nm torque. Strong numbers. 4WD hardware stays. Which means serious off-road credibility remains intact. The suspension is said to be improved too better comfort, less bounce. Or so we expect. Globally, there’s even an electric version floating around. For India? Not so soon, probably. Diesel still rules here. Especially in this segment.
Also read : Toyota Hilux 2025: The Monster Truck That Laughs at Limits
Land Cruiser FJ Compact Yet Hardcore Off-Roader
Now this one is interesting. The upcoming Land Cruiser FJ is expected around 2028. Smaller than the Fortuner. But don’t confuse smaller with weaker. It will likely share the IMV roots. That’s important. Platform matters. Initially, a 2.7-litre petrol engine could power it. Diesel may arrive later the familiar 2.8L unit that Indian buyers already trust. A safe bet.
Production is expected at Toyota’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility. Local manufacturing usually means sharper pricing. And sharper pricing means serious competition. India’s appetite for rugged SUVs is growing. Weekend trails. Mountain trips. Social media off-road reels. The FJ fits into that lifestyle narrative almost perfectly. It could quietly become a favorite among adventure-focused buyers. If priced right. Big if.
Also read : Toyota Land Cruiser FJ Smaller Size, Serious Off-Road Promise — Worth the Hype?
7-Seater Hyryder Hybrid Focused Family SUV
Then comes the extended version of the Toyota Hyryder. Spotted testing. Longer wheelbase. Camouflage everywhere. Something is cooking. This three-row version will likely retain the petrol and strong hybrid engines. And that hybrid tech is its real advantage. Fuel efficiency sells. Especially when fuel prices refuse to calm down. An AWD option is also being discussed, which would give it a subtle edge.
Competition will not be easy though. The Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens Clavis already sit strong in the segment. Even the Mahindra XUV 7XO offers AWD in certain trims. Toyota knows this. They usually don’t enter unprepared. For families wanting space, efficiency and long-term reliability this could become a very practical choice. Not flashy. But sensible. And sometimes, sensible wins.
Also read : Toyota Hyryder After the Price Hike Is It Still Worth It?
Why This Strategy Matters
Toyota India is clearly playing the long game. SUV demand in India isn’t slowing down. Compact. Mid-size. Lifestyle. Everything is expanding. Buyers want presence, practicality and technology. All at once. These three upcoming models aren’t random launches. They feel connected. Thought-out. A layered strategy below the Fortuner badge.
If execution goes right pricing, features, availability Toyota may once again dominate conversations in showrooms and highways alike. Not loudly. But steadily. And that’s usually how they win.
