2012 Toyota Fortuner launched in Thailand, pictures and all the details

Toyota have officially launched the new, 2012 version of their Fortuner SUV in Thailand. The next destination for the face lift upgrade is India, where the brawny looking SUV will land sometime early in 2012.
In its latest version, the Fortuner witnesses cosmetic upgrades in the front and rear sections, along with some enhancements within the cabin. The mechanicals remain largely the same with some tweaks being applied to the engine for better efficiency. Here’s a list of all the changes that have been incorporated in the new Fortuner along with an image gallery.

Exterior

• New radiator grille with tons of chrome
• New headlmaps, moe swept back
• Changed bumper with a black hosing for the entire central air dam and fog lamps
• New design for the air scoop on the bonnet
• New roof rails
• New design for rear bumper
• New design tail lamps
• Chrome slat above the rear number plate with Fortuner engraved on it
• No changes made to the side profile

Interior
•    New seats
•    Darker trim for the wooden trim
•    New backlight for the instrument console
•    Better ergonomics for steering mounted controls
•    New power windows panel

Engine and mechanicals

The specifications for the engine remain unchanged, with power and torque still rated at 171 PS @ 3600 rpm and 343 Nm @ 1400-3400 rpm respectively from the 3.0-liter D4-D common rail diesel engine. In Thailand the vehicle is available with an auto transmission. There is very high probability of the tranny making it to India.

What’s new, however, is what Toyota is calling ‘Diamond tech’ in marketing lingo. Apparently the system features diamond like carbon coating which facilitates more precise fuel injection, this boosting efficiency. The new tech is also said to have a favourable effect on the injectors’ life. There is some buzz that when the new Fortuner lands in India, it will be produced with increased localization.
The price of the new model on its India entry is expected to remain unchanged. Expect the new vehicle to make its first Indian appearance at the 2012 Auto Expo at New Delhi, and get launched soon thereafter.