The Toyota Fortuner GR Sport (GR-S) now sits at the top of the Fortuner range in South Africa, offering more power, sporty visual enhancements, and unique suspension tuning. We spent a week with the dynamic new Fortuner, stretching its legs from Cape Town to Darling to Scarborough.
Pricing and Positioning
Priced at just under the R1 million mark, the Fortuner GR Sport is the most expensive variant in the line-up. It slots in above the VX mild-hybrid model, commanding a premium for its uprated engine, bespoke suspension, and GR-branded styling inside and out. The various changes aim to capture the attention of buyers looking for a sportier, more distinctive take on a familiar favourite.
Engine and Performance
As with the Hilux GR-Sport, the Fortuner derivative is powered by a revised version of Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine. In GR Sport trim, output climbs to 165 kW and 550 Nm, up from the 150 kW and 500 Nm of the standard Fortuner. Power is delivered to either the rear wheels or all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission and a selectable four-wheel-drive system.
The throttle response and overtaking performance are notable improvements from the standard Forutner, and while Toyota has not published official acceleration figures, the extra torque is especially useful when towing, carrying passengers, or navigating off-road terrain. The extra power adds comfort on longer drives, and as we wound up the N7, we definitely picked our way past the various trucks taking up the road. We averaged 9.7 L/100 km, with a good combination of urban and highway driving over the week of testing, including daily runs around town, and trips from Cape Town to Darling and Scarborough.
Suspension and Handling
One of the key upgrades in the GR Sport is the use of GR-tuned monotube shock absorbers, which aim to improve ride quality, high-speed stability, and handling precision. Body roll is slightly reduced compared to other Fortuner variants, and the SUV feels more composed through corners. Given that our trip to Darling took place on a particular rainy day, the Fortuner’s improved handling was noticeable – stable on wet roads, firmly planted when overtaking.
Importantly, the changes don’t compromise off-road ability. Ground clearance remains high, and the robust ladder-frame chassis paired with low-range gearing ensures the GR-S retains the Fortuner’s go-anywhere character that has made it favoured in South Africa since it first hit the market in 2006.
Exterior Styling
Visually, the Fortuner GR Sport gets several distinguishing features: a unique front bumper with sportier detailing, black 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black exterior mirrors and subtle GR badging
The changes are tasteful and athletic without being aggressive. While the silhouette remains instantly recognisable, the GR Sport trim adds a degree of road presence, making it less conservative than other Fortuner models.
Interior and Features
The GR Sport receives interior enhancements that lean toward a sportier, more premium look: Leather and suede sports seats with red contrast stitching, a red centre stripe on the steering wheel, GR logos on the headrests, alloy sports pedals and dark metallic trim. While the changes are far from an overhaul, they definitely distinguish the cabin from a standard interior.
Equipment levels are comprehensive, though, as with Toyota’s general Hilux and Fortuner range, they are in need of a modern upgrade soon. Dual-zone climate control, touchscreen infotainment, smart entry, and push-button start come as standard, while seven airbags, stability control, trailer sway assist, and traction management complete a full suite of safety systems.
Practicality and Versatility
Despite its sporty focus, the GR Sport remains a family-oriented SUV with a 7-seat configuration with flexible fold-flat seating. Ample ground clearance and approach/departure angles for off-roading, combined with a strong towing capacity and large luggage space, mean that the GR-Sport remains firmly rooted in Fortuner’s dual-purpose nature – comfortable enough for long trips yet capable in rough terrain. An enduring South African favourite
Competitors
The GR Sport’s ladder-frame contemporaries include the Ford Everest Sport, Wildtrak and Platinum variants, the Isuzu mu-X and the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Among these, the Fortuner GR Sport offers a unique blend of mechanical upgrades and premium design touches without pushing into luxury-SUV pricing territory.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extra power and torque for better driveability
- Improved handling through GR-tuned suspension
- Sportier, more distinctive exterior styling
Cons
- No major infotainment or tech upgrades
- Premium pricing close to R1 million
- Fuel economy slightly affected by increased outputs
Verdict
The Toyota Fortuner GR Sport is not a radical departure from the Fortuner formula, but it definitely distinguishes itself from the familiar Fortuner models that carry, despite great capability, a conservative air about them. It delivers on its promise of being a sportier, more premium version of an already proven SUV, and offers a nice niche for Fortuner loyalists looking for something with more presence and performance, that is still grounded in off-road capability and family practicality.
While the changes are not revolutionary, they mark a clear distinction between the GR-S and other Fortuner models – a bit more fun and dynamic, without sacrificing its historical tenets.
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