The new Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4 was launched in March 2018 to create a new benchmark in Pakistan’s SUV market.
Not only is the Fortuner a popular automotive variant within the country, but it also has a vast global demand from enthusiasts who wish to own a vehicle where style meets power and luxury.
Sporty. Powerful. Elegant.
Toyota Pakistan set-up a 3-day experiential drive across the nation including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to showcase what the mighty Toyota Fortuner 2.8 Sigma 4 can deliver.
We got to be a part of it!
The experiential drive was held at Karachi. The objective of the event was to test the capability of the new Fortuner through the obstacle course specially designed for this purpose.
It officially commenced with an introduction of the SUV and its highlights. The automotive giant also highlighted the importance of safety and each of the participants present was given a detailed brief.
We were offered to take a test drive. However, it was mandatory for drivers to have their license before hopping on into the vehicle. Those who did not have their license on them also got to experience the ride from the passenger seat.
After checking for seatbelts, the drivers were given the green signal to take over the track.
Ultimate Test Course
A fun fact we came across was that before we hit the course, the driver had switched the Differential Lock ‘on’.
When we asked him as to it’s purpose, he shared that the option ‘locks’ both front and back wheels forcing them both to turn in unison, regardless of the traction. If this feature was off, each wheel would rotate at a different speed.
Thus, a locked differential can provide significant traction advantage over an open differential, only when the traction under each wheel differs significantly.
Obstacle 1- Bumpy Starts
This one reminded us of the bumpy roads of Karachi. However, we did not feel them much, as the car had the necessary balance to perform with high-efficiency, without compromising or damaging its suspension. Only if, all the cars were designed for Karachi’s roads.
Obstacle 2- Rocky Surface
Bumpy Starts was nothing compared to the rocky surface. The idea of this obstacle was to portray how the surface of the street become harsh after rainfall, sewage gunk, mud, all make it difficult to drive.
Thinking that this will be a tough one for the Fortuner, we were wrong. The SUV danced through it as if it was not a big challenge with its silent engine.
Obstacle 3- Side Incline
The third obstacle, side incline, got our hearts in our mouth. With two wheels on the ground and the other two on a sharp incline, all of us sitting in the car were holding on to our roof handles.
The Fortuner’s firm grip on the ground ensured its tolerance and stability on such a tricky track, making it cross through to the second course smoothly.
Obstacle 4- Rumble Steps
We soon found ourselves at the Rumble Steps. Excited, frightened, and adrenaline pumping through our veins, we advanced through the course.
It is noteworthy that the control the driver had over the vehicle was truly commendable. Not once it felt that like things can go south. The Sigma-4 had once again outshined with its capabilities.
Obstacle 5- HAC & DAC
Going up the hill and coming back down is surely a challenge when one wants to go on thrilling adventures.
It came to us as a shock how easy it was for the driver to do the obstacles thanks to the Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) features, which give it an edge over its rivals.
HAC supports drivers on steep hills, while DAC (Downhill Assist Control) supports drivers when descending slopes. There may be unexpected cases for the driver where the vehicles may slide when starting on sudden hills which is why this technology is the perfect addition.
Obstacle 6- Water Pit
For drivers, it is very important to be careful when driving on wet surfaces. Often, the slippery roads can cause major incidents as the vehicle starts to go out of hand. Luckily for us, when we arrived at the water pit, that was not the case.
The drive is commendable as it proves it can perform in different conditions, be it 500-700mm rainfall. For drivers, slotting in the gears will not be difficult as its quite accurate.
Obstacle 7- Slush Pit
The slush pit was also a challenge we wanted the Fortuner Sigma-4 to take on to see how the car performs on the road for travel in the winter, especially up north. Once again, smooth performance, no jerks, no sliding, the Fortuner was flawless.
Under The Hood
Inside, the new Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4 is equipped with a new generation 1GD engine (2800cc) with a compact high-efficiency turbocharger and intercooler. The SUV gives higher power, and torque with a quiet engine as compared to its rivals.
The latest Toyota Fortuner Sigma 4 is truly no less than a trend-setter in the SUV market. With advanced technology, it is a must-have for large families and those who enjoy discovering new sites on long road trips.
Are you ready to unleash this powerful mammoth on the roads? We are!
