Toyota Fortuner GR Sport: It has been reigning as the king in India’s full-size SUV segment. Hardcore, dependable, purpose-built, equipped to clear-up any highway first, it’s been the default choice for anybody lusting after presence and dominance.
But for those who’ve never felt the regular Fortuner is sporty and exclusive enough, Toyota has cooked up something more radical – the Fortuner GR Sport.
This version is adorned with Toyota’s motorsport-influenced Gazoo Racing (GR) badge and it isn’t simply the old model with with a thicker layer of make-up applied.
It receives performance adjustments along with a racier appearance, and an interior that shouts exclusivity. But at a price that nudges into luxury turf, is the GR Sport worth the premium? Let’s dive into it.
Bold Design with GR DNA
The Fortuner has always shown a strong road presence. But the GR Sport dials it up a bit with sporty cosmetic tweaks.
The front section is provided with a revised front bumper with a black gloss grille, aggressive air dams and GR badging that distinguishes it from the regular trims.
Blacked-out mirrors, roof rails, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels contribute to the attitude.
Around back, the updates are minimal but nice — LED taillights that are smoked out, a GR Sport badge, and a more aggressive diffuser.
It’s not overdone, but it still somehow demands attention in all the best ways.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by all-black interiors with red contrast stitching, GR-branded seats, and a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The cabin feels sporty and is inspired by the performance theme, but has not lost the genes of its rugged Fortuner predecessor.
Cabin Comfort and Features
Sure, the Fortuner GR Sport may have a sporty slant, but it is far from compromised in comfort.
The seats are cushy and supportive and there is room for five adults — with a somewhat usable third row for short trips.
The black theme is carried throughout the interior creating a strong unified feel.
It adds a big touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (albeit wired, still), JBL surround sound, power front seats, dual-zone climate control and a power tailgate.
You also receive a multi-info display that is set off by GR graphics, paddle shifters and ambient lighting to complete the performance vibe.
It’s well-apointed, but some stuff you’d expect at this price—stuff like a panoramic sunroof, or ADAS—still isn’t there, to the possible disappointment of buyers who are after the killer edge.
Powertrain and Performance
Powering the Fortuner GR Sport is the familiar 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine which makes 204 PS and 500 Nm of torque.
Coupled with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and capable of 4×4 drive, the GR Sport is full of the power you’d want it to be.
The only news here is the tang ajusted suspension, giving the car better high-speed stability and even sharper handling than the regular Fortuner.
It’s not like it magically becomes a corner carver of an SUV, however I did notice the better ride quality and less body roll.
The steering is still a little heavy at low speeds, but that’s a trade-off, the company says, for better highway manners and confidence off-road.
Whether you’re travelling on the highway or struggling through off-roading, the GR Sport is unfazed.
Safety and Assurance
Toyota has not sacrificed safety. The GR Sport is also equipped with 7 airbags, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. The body is still rock-solid and the SUV feels as strong as a tank.
Toyota’s reputation for bulletproof reliability gives even greater peace of mind for long term ownership, especially if you live in a remote location.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
GR-inspired Design sporty and aggressive
Unbeatable 4×4 and trusty 2.8L diesel power
Sharper dynamics with better suspension
Plenty of features Large interior
Toyota reliability and resale value
Cons:
High price ( ₹ 51 lakh+on road)
Misses out on panoramic sunroof, ADAS
No petrol or manual gearbox available
Urban ride can be a bit bumpy
Some interiors still look a bit dated
Toyota Fortuner GR Sport: Performance versus Purpose
What it isn’t, is a tarted-up SUV. It is, in short, an interest-crafted performance edition that offers incremental yet effective improvements in terms of driving dynamics, styling and interior desirability.
It is targeted, head-on, at those who love the Fortuner’s heritage and want something a little more exclusive, a little more exciting.
Yes, it’s pricey. Yet for enthusiasts pining for a rugged, go-anywhere S.U.V. with a whiff of motorsport pedigree, the GR Sport delivers a punchy balance of muscle and poise.
It’s not for everyone — but for the right buyer, it’s a power-packed statement on wheels.
