Suspense crime, Digital Desk : The Toyota Fortuner is an icon on Indian roads, a symbol of power and presence. But with a price tag that has climbed well out of reach for many, it remains an aspirational dream. Now, the rumor mill is buzzing with exciting news: Toyota is reportedly developing a smaller, more affordable 7-seater SUV, which is already being dubbed the “mini-Fortuner.”

This new vehicle is strategically designed to plug the massive gap below its flagship big brother. While the full-size Fortuner commands a price upwards of ₹50 lakh, this new SUV is expected to launch at nearly half that price, potentially starting around the ₹25 lakh mark. This would place it in direct competition with some of the most popular vehicles in the country, including the Mahindra Scorpio-N, Tata Safari, and MG Hector Plus.

So, what can we expect from this new contender? Reports suggest it will inherit the Fortuner’s muscular and aggressive design language, ensuring it has a commanding road presence. While not a direct scaled-down version, it will likely feature a rugged, butch aesthetic that Indian buyers love.

Under the hood, Toyota is expected to leverage its expertise in hybrid technology. The new SUV will likely be offered with both petrol and a powerful strong-hybrid engine option, a feature that would give it a significant edge in fuel efficiency and performance over its diesel-dominated rivals. It is rumored to be based on a modified version of Toyota’s globally successful TNGA-C platform, which also underpins the Innova Hycross.

If these reports hold true, Toyota could have a game-changer on its hands. By offering the prestige and reliability of the Toyota badge combined with Fortuner-inspired styling and an aggressive price point, this “mini-Fortuner” could be the perfect answer for families dreaming of a big, bold SUV without breaking the bank.

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