The much-awaited Fortuner Neo Drive 48V and Legender Neo Drive 48V mild-hybrid variants have been launched by Toyota in India. The Fortuner is priced at ₹44.72 lakh, and the Legender at ₹50.09 lakh (ex-showroom). Pre-orders for both variants have been opened, and deliveries are expected to commence in the third week of June.
Introduction of Fortuner 48V Mild-Hybrid System
The launch concurrently marks the introduction of mild-hybrid technology in the Fortuner model lineup. Both Fortuner Neo Drive and Legender Neo Drive are equipped with Toyota’s well-known 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, rated at 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. A key feature is the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which includes a belt-integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery pack. This system aims to achieve improved fuel efficiency, enhanced low-speed smoothness, and reduced engine start-up noise.
The additional features of the hybrid system include regenerative braking, which captures energy to recharge the battery during deceleration, and an auto start-stop feature, which conserves fuel and reduces emissions by turning the engine off while the vehicle is idling. Upgraded real-world fuel economy, along with enhanced driving refinement, is expected from these changes, according to Toyota.
Features and Equipment
Except for the exterior styling and the primary interior configuration, the Neo Drive variants feature some essential engineering upgrades. Awarded enhancements include the chargeable smartphone holder and the 360-degree panoramic camera for easier parking, manoeuvring, and resting. Further distinguishing the models from their conventional diesel counterparts, both models sport ‘Neo Drive’ badges placed on the tailgate.
Some other notable modern features include ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, rear ambient lighting, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, rear air vents, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a JBL sound system featuring 11 speakers, and auto-dimming interior rearview mirrors (IRVMs). Safety is prioritised as always, with seven airbags, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and front and rear parking sensors, along with a rear camera.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Pricing stands at ₹44.72 for the Fortuner Neo Drive 48V, and Legender Neo Drive 48V is marked at ₹50.09 Lakhs (ex-showroom price). These mild-hybrid variants are positioned as upper-range variants in the Fortuner portfolio, with Legender Neo Drive serving as the new flagship model, testo durable. The advanced features come with an additional price of roughly ₹2 Lakhs when compared to the standard diesel variants.
Conclusion
Toyota further enters into India’s electrification landscape with the introduction of the Fortuner Neo Drive 48V and Legender Neo Drive 48V, responding to the demand for highly fuel-efficient and eco-friendly SUVs. The segment-leading Fortuner SUV is now set to redefine its value proposition in the Indian market. The booster pack–mild hybrid system integrates seamlessly with the existing features to help deliver improved economy, refined performance, and quieter operation. The deliveries of these models are now expected to begin in the third week of June.
Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive 48V and Legender Neo Drive 48V mild-hybrid variants in India:
| Feature/Specification | Fortuner Neo Drive 48V | Legender Neo Drive 48V |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (ex-showroom) | ₹44.72 lakh | ₹50.09 lakh |
| Engine | 2.8-litre turbo-diesel | 2.8-litre turbo-diesel |
| Mild-Hybrid System | 48V belt-integrated starter generator, lithium-ion battery | 48V belt-integrated starter generator, lithium-ion battery |
| Power Output | 204 hp | 204 hp |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Key Hybrid Features | Regenerative braking, Smart Idle Start-Stop, Boost Assist | Regenerative braking, Smart Idle Start-Stop, Boost Assist |
| New Tech Features | 360-degree camera, wireless charger | 360-degree camera, wireless charger |
| Safety Features | 7 airbags, ESC, hill start assist, parking sensors | 7 airbags, ESC, hill start assist, parking sensors |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
| Deliveries Begin | Third week of June 2025 | Third week of June 2025 |
| Distinctive Badge | Neo Drive badge | Neo Drive badge |
Note: This table highlights the similarities and unique features of both mild-hybrid variants, helping buyers compare and choose according to their preferences.
Read: TATA Launches Harrier EV: All Electric SUV Unveiled Flagship with Harrier EV
