New Generations of the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner Launched in Malaysia
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NEW GENERATIONS OF THE TOYOTA HILUX AND FORTUNER LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA Shah Alam, 5 May 2016 - UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT), the sole authorised importer and distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, today introduces the all-new generations of Toyota Hilux and Toyota Fortuner. The Toyota Hilux –best-selling pick-up truck in Malaysia for the past 10 years – goes into its 8th generation while the Fortuner SUV begins its second generation. As before, both models are assembled at UMWT’s own plant in Shah Alam, Selangor. “We are confident that the new generation of both the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner will be just as well accepted by Malaysian customers as their predecessors have been. They come with not just fresh new designs, new technology and better performance but also continue to be good value for money, which has been a strong point of the Toyota brand for decades. Whichever model is chosen, rest assured that the drive will be an enjoyable and safe one,” said Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMWT. The Hilux and Fortuner models are part of the Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles project (referred to as the ‘IMV Project’) and shared many parts and systems. “The Hilux model had maintained its popularity with over 200,000 units of the outgoing generation have been sold throughout Malaysia since launched in 2005. It became one of the best-selling models for UMW Toyota Motor the past 10 years, continued Datuk Ismet.” He also said that the Hilux market share is about 52% and remains as the best- selling model in the 4x4 pick-up segment in the country for many years. The all new Hilux comes with 6 variants in Double Cab and Single Cab configurations with two powertrain options, the 2.4 litre and 2.8-litre. On-the-road prices start from RM89,900 in Peninsular Malaysia (please refer to the attached pricelist). The new Fortuner comes in two variants and the price starts from RM189,900 for Peninsular Malaysia (please refer to the attached pricelist). Customers have a choice of either a newly- developed 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine or a proven 2.7-litre petrol engine. One of the highlights of the new generation of Hilux is the new Global Diesel (GD) engine series with 2.4 litre and 2.8-litre versions. Key objectives in the development of the new engine series were to provide stronger low-end torque delivery, better response for acceleration, greater reliability under the most extreme conditions and, of course, improved fuel efficiency. Although they have smaller displacements than the engines they replace, outputs (both power and torque) are higher, thanks to new technology being used. All engines are now equipped with 6-speed manual or electronically-managed automatic transmissions. With the extra ratios for a wider spread, better acceleration is available at the lower end while at higher cruising speeds, there is reduced noise as well as fuel- saving. One of the highlights of the new generation is the stronger chassis frame as well as bodyshell. For example, the bodyshell of the new Hilux has 45% more spot weld points to improve body rigidity. High tensile steel plates are also used in the upper and lower body to improve strength and safety but without adding more weight. The latest structural enhancements make the frame more long-lasting while also improving ride comfort and handling. Crash safety is also improved as the chassis frame is stronger and has better impact absorption. Both models have fresh new styling and for the Fortuner, the change in the design is quite startling as the model now has a more premium appearance. In view of greater use on highways and at higher cruising speeds, aerodynamic performance has also been given attention. This has not only helped to give better stability at high speeds but also reduces wind noise. Their interiors are also even more passenger car-like than before with high-quality materials and additional convenience features. The refinement owes much to the appointment of Hiroki Nakajima - whose previous experience was focused on cars rather than pick-ups - as Chief Engineer. Mr. Nakajima led the team which developed the iQ compact model which was praised for its interior packaging. For a more pleasant drive, the levels of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) have been lowered so significantly that the occupants won’t believe there are in a pick-up truck or SUV. Considerable effort went into suppression of NVH, starting with an improved body structure that helps prevent road and mechanical noise entering the cabin as well as generous use of insulating materials. As in many premium SUVs nowadays, the new Fortuner has a Smart Entry and Push Start System. Additionally, a feature which will delight owners is the power rear door on the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ that allows the rear door to open and close at the touch of a button. Such feature is usually available only on a more expensive SUV model. Being a leading manufacturer of automobiles, Toyota has always been conscious of the need to ensure that its vehicles are safe to use. Should there be an accident, the occupants should have the best possible protection against injuries. With this in mind, the latest Hilux and Fortuner come with many Active and Passive safety features which are similar to what is offered in passenger cars. For example, ABS is standard for every variant of the Hilux and Fortuner along with 3 front SRS airbags (the third one is for the driver’s knee) and 3-point auto-retracting seatbelts for every occupant. For the top variants of both models, there are also 4 additional airbags at the outer sides of the front seats and over the windows for a total of 7 airbags (the Hilux is the first in its class with this many airbags). A new feature is Active Traction Control (A-TRC) which mimics the function of the limited-slip differential (LSD) for maximising traction on challenging terrain or surfaces. This will give the driver confidence to concentrate on driving rather than worrying if he will be stuck. As with all the latest models offered by UMW Toyota Motor since April 1, 2016, the new Hilux and Fortuner come with a 5-year warranty, subject to terms and conditions. The fully-backed warranty is transferable to the next owner if it is still in effect when sold off. UMW Toyota Motor is targeting to sell around 27,000 units of the Hilux and 1,400 units of Fortuner by the end of this year. The All New Toyota Hilux will be available at all showrooms nationwide from today onwards. However, the Fortuner will only available at Toyota showrooms sometime in June. Customers can locate the nearest showroom by visit the Toyota Malaysia website at www.toyota.com.my or calling the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682). .