Toyota Malaysia recently introduced the all-new Fortuner SUV in the local market. However, unlike our neighbors that received two iterations of the SUV - the Fortuner facelift and Fortuner Legender, we just received one, called 2021 Fortuner. Fret not, though it's called the 2021 Fortuner, it is the all-new Legender model. So, what are we really missing here? Let's find out -

Note, we'll be comparing Indian-spec 2021 Fortuner facelift with Malaysian-spec 2021 Fortuner (known as Legender in other countries). While comparing the two, we'll refer to the former as Fortuner facelift and the latter as Fortuner Legender.

Exterior

The Fortuner Legenger looks more aggressive than the Fortuner facelift model. The former features new quad-LED headlights, while the latter gets bi-LED units. One of the most significant changes comes in the form of grille design, which in Legender is sleeker with the bumper getting a large air dam at the centre accompanied by sleek fog lamp casing. The Fortuner facelift gets a massive grille with wave-like patterns and a big mesh-pattern fog lamp case. The former also gets dynamic turn indicators.

On the side, both the SUVs look identical, except for the 18-inch dual-tone machine finish alloys seen on the Legender. The Fortuner facelift, on the other hand, gets a monotone look.

At the rear, the Fortuner Legender model features an updated LED taillight, a revised rear bumper with L-shaped inserts, full-width black trim connecting the lighting units.

Interior

Toyota Malaysia is yet to reveal the car's interior fully. However, taking clues from the Thai and Indian markets, it seems the Fortuner Legender and Fortuner facelift model feature the same layout. The only difference is of the upholstery colour scheme - its dual-tone Black Maroon in Legender and all-black or dual-tone in Fortuner facelift.

Comfort & convenience

The Malaysian-spec 2020 Fortuner gets additional features compared to the Fortuner standard facelift. For instance, it benefits from Variable Flow Control Power Steering, Kick-sensor power tailgate, Vehicle Telematics System, luxurious ambient illumination, wireless charger for Qi devices, and Apple CarPlay & Android Auto support.

The Fortuner facelift gets auto-dimming IRVM, dual-zone air-con system, an 8-inch touch infotainment system, push-button start, power & ventilated front seats, cooled upper glove box, and cruise control.

Engine

The specs differ slightly across the 2021 Fortuner in different countries. The Malaysian-spec Fortuner is offered in three trim options each powered by a separate powerplant. For instance, the base 2.4 AT 4X4 is expected to get the carry forward 2393cc diesel mill churning 150 PS and 400 Nm, mid-spec 2.7 SRZ AT 4X4 is also expected to feature the tried & tested 2694 cc petrol mill pumping 166 PS and 245 Nm of torque. The most significant update is the inclusion of an all-new 2.8-litre turbo diesel mill that powers the range-topping 2.8 VRZ AT 4X4 model.

The Indian-spec Fortuner facelift is offered in two mill options - a 166 PS/245 Nm 2.7-litre petrol and a 2.8-litre diesel unit pumping 204 PS and 420/500 Nm of torque.

Safety

The Fortuner Legender benefits from the brand's Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety and driver-assist features. It includes features like Lane Departure Alert with Yaw Assist, Pre-collision System, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Other common safety features are seven airbags, anti-lock braking system with EBD, traction control, ISOFIX, hill launch assist, and traction control.

 

Conclusion

The Malaysia-spec Fortuner (Legender in other countries) is blessed with better styling, powerful engine, and advanced features. And likewise, is pricer than the standard Fortuner facelift which is no less either.

Also Read: 2021 Toyota Fortuner: New vs Old