Toyota Fortuner Legender 4×4 Manual Launched: A New Powerhouse in the Premium SUV Segment
Toyota Kirloskar Motor has introduced a new variant of its popular premium SUV, the Fortuner Legender, now equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Priced at ₹46.36 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT aims to cater to enthusiasts who prefer a hands-on driving experience while still enjoying the comfort, features, and rugged capability that the model is known for. This latest addition makes Toyota’s flagship SUV more versatile, offering a more engaging driving experience.
Toyota Fortuner Legender: A Brief Overview
The Toyota Fortuner has long been one of the most popular full-size SUVs in India. With its dominant road presence, powerful engine options, and Toyota’s legendary reliability, it has carved out a significant market share. The Legender variant was introduced as a more premium alternative to the standard Fortuner, featuring bolder styling, enhanced features, and additional creature comforts.
With the introduction of a manual transmission in the 4×4 Legender, Toyota now provides more flexibility to its customers, particularly those who prefer the direct control and ruggedness of a stick shift.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT retains the powerful 2.8-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine that has been a hallmark of the lineup. However, while the automatic variant produces 500 Nm of torque, the manual version delivers a slightly lower 420 Nm but maintains the same 204 PS of power. The 6-speed manual transmission allows for better driver engagement, making it an appealing option for off-road enthusiasts who prefer to control gear shifts themselves.
The manual variant continues to be a 4×4 model, offering excellent off-road capability. It is equipped with Toyota’s advanced drivetrain, ensuring superior traction across different terrains, be it rocky trails, sand dunes, or muddy tracks.
Exterior & Design
Toyota has kept the aggressive and sporty styling of the Fortuner Legender intact in the new manual variant. The SUV retains its dual-tone exterior, featuring a striking Platinum White Pearl with a Black Roof. Some other notable design elements include:
- Sleek LED headlamps with sequential turn indicators
- A unique front grille with black and chrome accents
- Sculpted front and rear bumpers with sharp contours
- 18-inch machine-cut alloy wheels
- LED taillights and dynamic indicators
The Fortuner Legender sets itself apart from the standard Fortuner with its more premium styling and exclusive color schemes, making it an attractive choice for buyers looking for an SUV with an upmarket appeal.
Interior & Features
Stepping inside the Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT, one is greeted with a dual-tone black and maroon interior theme, exuding a sense of luxury. Toyota has packed the cabin with a host of premium features, including:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- JBL 11-speaker premium audio system with a subwoofer
- Ventilated and powered front seats for enhanced comfort
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Gesture-controlled powered tailgate
- Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear AC vents
- Ambient lighting for a more sophisticated cabin experience
The Fortuner Legender’s premium feel is further enhanced by its leather upholstery, a sleek dashboard design, and a multi-functional steering wheel with paddle shifters (exclusive to the automatic version).
Safety Features
Toyota has always prioritized safety, and the Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT is no exception. The SUV is equipped with seven airbags, ensuring maximum protection for all occupants. Additional safety features include:
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill Assist Control (HAC)
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) with ABS
- Rear parking camera with sensors
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror (IRVM)
These safety features make the Fortuner Legender one of the safest vehicles in its segment, further reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to providing a secure driving experience.
Price & Variants Comparison
With the addition of the manual 4×4 variant, the Fortuner Legender lineup now offers multiple options catering to different buyer preferences. Below is a comparison of the key pricing of the different variants:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Fortuner Legender 4×2 AT | ₹44.11 lakh |
| Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT (New) | ₹46.36 lakh |
| Fortuner Legender 4×4 AT | ₹48.09 lakh |
The new manual variant sits between the 4×2 AT and 4×4 AT, offering a slightly more budget-friendly option for those who want the off-road capability but prefer manual control over an automatic gearbox.
Competition & Market Positioning
The Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT primarily competes with other premium, full-size SUVs like the MG Gloster, Jeep Meridian, and Skoda Kodiaq. However, what sets it apart is its manual gearbox option, which neither the MG Gloster nor the Jeep Meridian currently offer in their 4×4 configurations.
Here’s how the Fortuner Legender stacks up against its competitors:
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Price Range (₹ Lakh) |
| Toyota Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT | 2.8L Diesel | 6-speed MT | 46.36 |
| MG Gloster | 2.0L Diesel | 8-speed AT | 38.80 – 43.87 |
| Jeep Meridian | 2.0L Diesel | 9-speed AT | 33.60 – 39.66 |
| Skoda Kodiaq | 2.0L Petrol | 7-speed DSG | 39.99 – 41.39 |
Toyota’s decision to introduce a manual variant in the premium SUV segment makes the Fortuner Legender a unique offering, appealing to adventure seekers and driving purists.
Final Thoughts: Is the Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT Worth It?
The launch of the Toyota Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT is a welcome move for SUV enthusiasts looking for a powerful, rugged, and feature-rich SUV with manual transmission. With its tried-and-tested diesel engine, premium features, and Toyota’s bulletproof reliability, it stands out in the competitive premium SUV segment.
Prospective buyers looking for an SUV that offers off-road capability, premium styling, and an engaging driving experience should certainly consider the new Fortuner Legender 4×4 MT. While it sits at a premium price point, its blend of performance, durability, and features makes it a compelling choice in the market.
Would you prefer the manual variant for the added engagement or opt for the automatic for convenience? Share your thoughts!