Introduction: A New Era for the Fortuner
Toyota has officially launched the much-anticipated Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive 48V Mild Hybrid in India on June 2, 2025, introducing electrified performance to its iconic SUV lineup. Priced at ₹50.09 lakh (ex-showroom), the Legender Mild Hybrid blends power, efficiency, and sustainability like never before. As the first Fortuner to feature Toyota’s 48V mild-hybrid technology, this launch positions Toyota as a serious player in India’s evolving green mobility space, just a day ahead of the Tata Harrier EV’s debut.
Let’s explore why the Fortuner Legender Hybrid is creating buzz and how it reshapes the future of diesel SUVs in India.
Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive Hybrid: Launch, Price & Variants
- Launch Date: June 2, 2025
- Model Launched: Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive 48V
- Ex-Showroom Price: ₹50.09 lakh
- Bookings: Open now
- Deliveries: Begin in mid-June 2025
Fortuner Mild Hybrid Pricing Overview:
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Fortuner Neo Drive 4×2 AT | ₹44.11 lakh |
| Fortuner Neo Drive 4×4 MT | ₹46.36 lakh |
| Legender Neo Drive 4×4 AT 48V (Hybrid) | ₹50.09 lakh |
The Legender Hybrid commands a ₹2 lakh premium over the standard 4×4 AT model—well justified by added technology and fuel efficiency gains.
Powertrain, Mileage & Hybrid Tech Explained
The Fortuner Legender Neo Drive is powered by the trusted 2.8L diesel engine (204 PS/500 Nm), now assisted by a 48V mild-hybrid system comprising:
- Belt-Integrated Starter Generator (ISG)
- Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
- Regenerative Braking System
- Idle Start-Stop Functionality
Key Benefits:
- Mileage Boost: Claimed 5% improvement over standard diesel (~13.15 kmpl, up from 12.65 kmpl)
- Smoother Driving: Enhanced low-speed acceleration and refined stop-start transitions
- Greener Footprint: Reduced emissions with hybrid assistance in urban driving
Features & Technology Upgrades
The 2025 Fortuner Legender Hybrid packs a premium set of features:
New Additions:
- 360-degree camera system
- Wireless charging pad
Existing Premium Features:
- 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Dual-zone climate control
- Ventilated front seats
- Powered tailgate with kick sensor
- Leather upholstery
- LED projector headlamps with DRLs
Safety Suite:
- 7 airbags
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Hill Start Assist
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Note: ADAS features (like adaptive cruise control) are missing—a possible drawback at this price point.
Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive vs Rivals: Competitive Comparison
| Model | Fuel Type | Powertrain | Price (Ex-showroom) | AWD Option | Claimed Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Fortuner Legender Hybrid | Diesel + Mild Hybrid | 2.8L 48V Hybrid | ₹50.09 lakh | Yes | ~13.15 kmpl |
| Tata Harrier EV | Electric | AWD Dual-Motor | ₹25–30 lakh (Est.) | Yes | 500–610+ km |
| Hyundai Creta EV | Electric | FWD Single Motor | ₹17.99–24.38 lakh | No | 473 km |
| MG Gloster Diesel | Diesel | 2.0L Twin-Turbo | ₹38–44 lakh (Est.) | Yes | ~12.5 kmpl |
Verdict: While the Harrier EV and Creta EV are greener, the Fortuner Hybrid targets those preferring diesel power with enhanced fuel efficiency and off-road capability.
Why This Launch Matters
The Fortuner Legender Hybrid is more than a new variant—it’s Toyota’s first step into diesel electrification in India. The mild-hybrid system provides a smart, scalable bridge between traditional engines and full EVs as the country pushes for cleaner alternatives amid rising fuel costs and stricter norms.
According to Toyota VP Varinder Wadhwa:
“This segment-first innovation underscores our commitment to delivering ever-better cars aligned with evolving customer lifestyles.”
Should You Buy the Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive Hybrid?
Buy it if you want:
- A full-size, rugged SUV with improved fuel economy
- Proven diesel reliability with a touch of hybrid refinement
- A premium, feature-loaded cabin with great resale value
Consider alternatives if you want:
- Full electric mobility (Harrier EV or Creta EV)
- ADAS and more advanced driver assistance features
- A petrol option (currently not offered for Fortuner Hybrid)
Conclusion
The Toyota Fortuner Legender Neo Drive Mild Hybrid, launched on June 2, 2025, offers the perfect middle ground between traditional diesel power and sustainable innovation. With enhanced fuel efficiency, premium features, and Toyota’s bulletproof reliability, this hybrid SUV is an ideal pick for urban families, highway travelers, and off-road lovers alike.
As the SUV market evolves with the rise of EVs and hybrid tech, Toyota’s Fortuner Hybrid stands tall—ready to lead with a blend of muscle and mindfulness.
Call to Action:
What do you think of the new Fortuner Hybrid? Is it worth the ₹50 lakh price tag? Let us know in the comments!
Bookmark this page and stay tuned for our side-by-side comparison: Fortuner Hybrid vs Harrier EV – Which SUV is Better for You in 2025?
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