The Japanese car marque keeps bringing minor updates to the iconic off-roading SUV consistently
In this post, we take a look at the updates to the new 2025 Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition. Fortuner has been a legendary 3-row SUV in our market. It has attained immense popularity and appeal among buyers ever since it was first launched back in 2009. Over the years, Toyota has kept refreshing it bit by bit to ensure that the appeal doesn’t fade away. Also, due to the reliability associated with Toyota cars, people have found limited alternatives, especially after the departure of the Ford Endeavour from India. For now, let us check out the specifics of this new model.
2025 Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition Launched
As a part of the 2025 model year update, the Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition gets a slew of aesthetic modifications with limited new features. On the outside, this variant comes with a redesigned grille, sporty spoilers, dual-tone roof, signature hood emblem and sleek glossy black alloys. These ensure that the external appearance of the new model tells it apart from the outgoing version. On the inside, the SUV boasts dual-tone seats, door trims, smart auto-fold mirrors, illuminated scuff plates and an advanced Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for additional safety. Note that the SUV continues to be on offer in 4×2 configuration with a manual transmission. One can choose between Attitude Black, Super White, Pearl White and Silver paint schemes.
Being a minor upgraded iteration of the original Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition, the powertrain options remain identical to the regular range. This means it draws power from the familiar 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbo diesel mill with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger, which generates a massive 201 hp and 420 Nm (500 Nm w/ AT) of peak power and torque. The transmission duties are carried out by a 6-speed manual transmission in the Leader Edition and a 6-speed torque converter automatic in higher variants.
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My View
Despite launching the 2025 version of the Toyota Fortuner Leader Edition, I strongly feel that it is high time the Japanese auto giant starts focusing on a comprehensive new-gen model. We have seen Toyota launching numerous limited-edition versions of the Fortuner with minor updates. Nevertheless, I am of the opinion that the customers are really waiting for a thorough update with the new-gen model, particularly to experience a revolution in terms of the in-cabin amenities and the latest tech and connectivity functionalities. Also, we see cars like the Mahindra Scorpio N have more features and hardcore off-roading capabilities at a much lower price. Hence, Toyota will need to up its game to remain reasonable with all the competition around. Hence, a new-gen model has been long overdue. I am excited to see how modern it will be in comparison to the current-gen model.
Editor’s Note
Yatharth Chauhan, Managing Editor
Having tracked the Fortuner’s journey since its debut in 2009, I’ve seen how Toyota hasn’t exactly mastered the art of keeping it relevant with timely updates. A lot of this could be attributed simply to the stellar success of the SUV. After all, you don’t mend what ain’t broke, right? But with lower segment SUVs evolving rapidly, I believe the time has come for the T-Fort to receive a proper next-gen overhaul. While the 2025 Leader Edition adds minor visual flair, enthusiasts like me are eagerly waiting for a true generational leap, We really need to have a full-fledged upgrade, especially on tech, features, and overall value proposition.
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