As soon as I got behind the wheel of the GR‑Sport Fortuner, I felt a rush of confidence, this isn’t just any SUV, it’s a statement on the road. From the moment I drove past other cars, I could feel the presence it commands: the bold grille, muscular stance, black accents, and sporty 18‑inch GR wheels make it impossible to ignore. People notice, and honestly, that adds to the thrill of driving it.
Under the hood, the 2.8‑litre GD‑6 turbo-diesel engine produces 165 kW and 550 Nm of torque, flowing through a 6-speed automatic to all four wheels. Every time I accelerate, especially when overtaking or climbing inclines, I feel grounded and in control, it’s powerful, yet composed.
What impresses me most is how the GR-tuned suspension strikes the right balance. It’s firmer than a standard Fortuner, but not so stiff that it’s uncomfortable, I still feel composed over corrugated gravel or pothole-strewn suburban roads. On twistier stretches, the body roll is typical for a tall SUV, but there’s noticeable composure when you lean on Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response.
Inside, the GR‑Sport is a smart mix of ruggedness and racier touches. The black-and-red theme, GR sports seats in suede and leather with red stitching, and a red-marked centre on the steering wheel give you the feeling of driving something tuned for performance. The GR start button is a fun reminder every time you fire it up.
On the road, that added power gives real confidence. When towing or hauling, the torque lets me feel fully in control. On long highway trips, the adaptive tech and solid 4×4 system make me feel secure; the GR‑Sport still has that classic Fortuner DNA of being capable off-road. Fuel consumption isn’t cheap, around 10–11 L/100 km, but I’m willing to pay that for the driving confidence and road presence it brings.
Safety-wise, it doesn’t disappoint: Toyota Safety Sense, seven airbags, and off-road aids like downhill assist and traction control give peace of mind on any terrain.
If I were to sum it up: driving the GR‑Sport Fortuner makes me feel powerful and in control. It’s not a stealthy cruiser, it’s bold, sporty, and fully aware of its own strength. For anyone who loves the practicality of a Fortuner but craves a performance edge, this feels like the perfect finale to this generation.