Fortuner Gets Fresh Face For 2020 – New Toyota Fortuner Epic
The Toyota Fortuner is our country’s top selling SUV and this could be attributed to various reasons. Perhaps it’s the comfort, practicality or maybe even the fact that its built on the solid foundation of its bakkie-sibling, the Toyota Hilux. Either way, the 7-Seater SUV has become a roaring success in South Africa and Toyota is not slowing down. Introducing the new Toyota Fortuner Epic and Epic Black.
Both models are based on the 2.8-litre GD-6 derivatives and feature a host of upgraded styling elements. The Fortuner Epic Black distinguishes itself by making use of sleek black style accents. Toyota SA says the Epic package will be applied to 100% of Fortuner 2.8 models, thereby offering customers enhanced value. An interesting point to note – Toyota South Africa has discontinued their 4.0-litre V6 petrol model along with the announcement of the Epic models.
The Epic range is available in four exterior colours to complement the new nudge and tow bar - Glacier White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey or Avant-Garde Bronze. The Epic Black models feature a bi-tone design with black roof, black roof rails, black side-view mirrors and unique, all-black 18-inch alloy wheels creating a lot of good contrast with the bright paintwork.
The interior receives metal scuff plates and ‘Epic’ branded carpets. A leather interior, expanded across the second and folding-third row of seats, and soft touch dashboard trim complete the package. The usual Fortuner creature comforts also make an appearance, like the dual-zone climate control, smart entry and push start, touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, reverse camera, TFT Multi-Information Display (MID), blue Optitron instrumentation, cruise control, steering switches, power-adjustable driver seat and power back door.
Pricing
Fortuner 2.8 RB Epic 6AT – R 660 000
Fortuner 2.8 Epic Black 6AT – R 670 100
Fortuner 2.8 4X4 Epic 6AT – R 729 000
Fortuner 2.8 4X4 Epic Black 6AT – R 739 100
All Fortuner models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan and 3-year/100 000 km warranty.
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Fortuner Epic cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Fortuner 2.8 RB Epic 6AT starts at R660,000, making it one of the pricier seven-seater SUVs on the South African market but you get proper leather seats and all the bells and whistles for that money.
Q: Is the Toyota Fortuner Epic worth buying?
Yes, the Fortuner Epic is worth buying if you need a reliable seven-seater that can handle everything from school runs to weekend camping trips, plus it holds its value better than most SUVs in South Africa.
Q: What's the difference between Fortuner Epic and Epic Black?
The Epic Black gets a bi-tone design with black roof, black roof rails, black mirrors and unique all-black 18-inch alloy wheels, while the standard Epic keeps the body-coloured accents throughout.
Q: Which Toyota Fortuner engine is best in 2020?
The 2.8-litre GD-6 diesel is your only choice now since Toyota ditched the 4.0-litre V6 petrol, but honestly the diesel is better anyway with proper torque and much better fuel economy.
Q: Does the Toyota Fortuner Epic come with a tow bar?
Yes, both Epic models come standard with a nudge bar and tow bar, so you can hook up your boat or trailer without any extra drama or dealer add-ons.
Should You Buy It?
The best seven-seater SUV under R700,000 in South Africa is definitely the Toyota Fortuner Epic at R660,000. Yes, you should buy it if you need something that can carry the whole family, tow your toys and still start every morning for the next decade. The Epic package adds proper value with leather everything, all the tech you actually need and that unbeatable Toyota reliability that makes other SUV owners jealous at the petrol station. Sure, it's not the cheapest option out there, but when you factor in resale value and the fact that every mechanic in the country can fix a Fortuner with their eyes closed, it's money well spent.
