Fortuner is one of the biggest SUVs found outside the US. The truck-based vehicle is looking tough, but it also delivers excellent performance thanks to a 2.8-liter diesel engine. Now, there is a special high-end version that draws even more attention, the 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender. The package is new, but it already receives positive feedback. There are also a few issues that have to be fixed in the 2023 edition.
The vehicle is going to be available at a limited market. The Fortuner SUV is not coming to the US, that is for sure. However, its fan’s core is in Pacific Asia. The 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender offers both 4×2 and 4×4 drives. A 2.8-liter engine is one of the most used engines in the world. Reliability and durability are guaranteed. The trim level is packed with some advanced options and it is the most expensive in the lineup. Still, buyers complain about missing parts at a high price.
Why Buy 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender? (Pros and Cons)
The first impression of the Legender package is positive. The SUV looks like an upscale version of the standard offer, with more quality materials used inside the cockpit. Well, the entire fleet of Fortuner will be one of the best-built SUVs in the world. The ground clearance promises a lot of fun off the road. Acceleration is crispy and the range is not bad having in mind the size and weight of the 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender. The ride is pretty cozy, thanks to the powerful engine, suspension setup, and interior room.
On the other hand, the SUV can become even better. Legender is a high-end option but lacks some basic features, such as rear window sunshades. Also, the SUV should have more advanced driver-assistance systems. The overall build of the cabin is really cool, so we are surprised to see details showing poor design. The third row doesn’t offer power-folding. Surprisingly, auto wipers are not an option. There are also a few other details that we don’t like, but those are more personal impressions, rather than some serious lacks.
Under the Hood
Fortuner is powered by both petrol and diesel engines. But, for the Legender, the company picked the most reliable and popular option. Still, it doesn’t mean that the new version is not going to add some of the powertrains available in the rest of the lineup.
A 2.8-liter D-4D diesel is the main source of power. It delivers 200 hp and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The automatic transmission sends power either to 4×2 or 4×4 drives. The SUV consumes more than 10 liters every 100 kilometers. That is about 22 mpg in the US. The fuel tank takes 80 liters (21 gallons). That means the range of the SUV is about 800 km (500 miles).
A 2.4-liter turbodiesel is another interesting setup. It was not available for the initial model, but the 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender could introduce this configuration. The four-cylinder engine can produce 150 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Both automatic and manual transmissions are options for this one. Nevertheless, the general opinion is that 150 horsepower is not enough for the Fortuner. Petrol engines we can find in the rest of the lineup are a 2.7 and 4.0 displacement. Those are going to increase power outputs (165 and 235 hp), but the torque is not so impressive as with diesel plants (245-375 NM / 180-280 pound-feet).
2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender Highlights
The first thing you will notice on the 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender is the unique grille. Also, finishes at the rear end make this package different from the rest of the lineup. Toyota is using the so-called “waterfall” design for front lights. The contrasting dual-tone roof brings more sportiness. Turn indicators are in a new position, right under the bumpers at both ends of the SUV. Alloy 18-inch wheels are standard, but you can purchase even bigger rims. A power tailgate is activated by sensors, so you can open it with a leg move.
Inside, the Legender package includes ventilation. Front seats are already heated at lower trim levels. Ambient lighting also boosts an overall impression, making the SUV a luxury vehicle. Contrast stitching makes the interior more elegant. The wireless charger is also added, although it is not too fast. Extra USB ports are available in the second row.
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Price and Availability
The 2023 Toyota Fortuner Legender will be available in Southeast Asian countries. For the rest of the world, you need to visit an official Toyota dealer and make an inquiry. Check HERE for the latest updates.