Toyota Fortuner GR-S In-Depth Review: Tuned by Gazoo Racing
Born from decades of motorsport dominance, from the grueling 24 Hours of Nürburgring to the harshest rally stages, Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) embodies the commitment to push every limit to make ever-better cars. This racing DNA now comes to India’s most legendary SUV with the all-new Fortuner GR-S (Gazoo Racing Sport). It is more than just a badge; it’s a masterpiece of automotive leadership infused with the spirit of motorsport. The GR-S variant takes the Fortuner’s formidable power and presence and enhances it with a GR sports-tuned suspension featuring mono-tube shock absorbers for superior high-speed stability and handling. Complemented by exclusive sporty styling inside and out, the Fortuner GR-S delivers an exhilarating, race-like feeling, ensuring every drive is a winning one.
Awesome Racing Touches
The Fortuner GR-S is distinguished by exclusive performance and styling features.
GR-Tuned Suspension:
Fitted with exclusive mono-tube shock absorbers for enhanced stability and superior handling.
GR Exclusive Seats:
Crafted from a combination of suede and genuine leather with red stitching and embroidered GR headrests.
Powerful 2.8L Engine:
A diesel engine producing 204 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed AT.
Bi-Toned GR Grille:
A special sporty black and bi-toned radiator grille inspired by Gazoo Racing sets the GR-S apart.
All-Black GR Alloys:
Multi-layered sporty 18-inch alloy wheels finished in all-black to enhance the aggressive stance.
Red Brake Calipers:
The front and rear ventilated disc brakes feature bright red calipers proudly displaying the GR emblem.
GR Steering Wheel:
A special genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel with a GR badge and red stitching for unmatched control.
GR Push Start Button:
Even starting the engine is a sporty experience with the GR monogrammed start/stop button.
GR Combination Meter:
A unique startup animation and GR branding on the instrument cluster further enhance the exclusive feel.
Sequential Shift & Paddles:
Take manual control of the 6-speed automatic transmission for a more responsive drive.
Uncompromised Safety:
Retains top-tier safety with 7 airbags, VSC, HAC, DAC, and a tough ladder-frame chassis.
Kick Sensor for Back Door:
Enjoy hands-free convenience with the fully automatic power back door opened by a simple kicking motion.
What Does “Tuned by Gazoo Racing” Mean?
The “GR-S” badge signifies that this Fortuner isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade; it has been mechanically enhanced by Toyota’s official motorsports division, Gazoo Racing. The key upgrade is the GR sports-tuned suspension system.
- Mono-Tube Shock Absorbers: Unlike the standard Fortuner’s twin-tube shocks, the GR-S uses higher-performance mono-tube units on both the front and rear suspension.
- Improved Dynamics: This setup provides better damping force, resulting in enhanced steering feedback, superior high-speed stability, and a more controlled, confident feel during cornering.
- Race-Bred Engineering: This technology is a direct result of learnings from conquering the world’s toughest races, bringing a touch of the track to your daily drive without compromising the Fortuner’s inherent off-road capability.
Full Technical Specifications
Engine & Chassis
- Fuel Type:Diesel
- Displacement:2755 cm³
- Max Output:150 kW (204 PS) @ 3000-3400 rpm
- Max Torque:500 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm
- Transmission:6-Speed Automatic with Paddle Shift
- Front Suspension:Double Wishbone w/ Mono-tube Shock Absorber
- Rear Suspension:4-Link w/ Coil Spring & Mono-tube Shock Absorber
- Brakes:Front & Rear Ventilated Discs w/ Red GR Calipers
Safety & Off-Road Features
- 4×4 System:High (H4) & Low (L4) Range
- Traction Aids:Active Traction Control (A-TRC)
- Driver Assists:VSC, Brake Assist, Hill Assist, Downhill Assist
- Differential:Lockable Rear Differential
- Airbags:7 SRS Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Driver Knee)
- Frame:Tough Frame with Torsional & Bending Rigidity
- Security:Anti-Theft Alarm with Ultrasonic Sensor
Interior & Comfort
- Seats:GR Exclusive Sporty Black Leather + Suede
- Steering Wheel:GR Exclusive Leather Wrapped
- Dashboard Accents:Smoke Silver Metallic + Matte Carbon
- Climate Control:Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Audio System:8.0 DA Touch Screen with 6 Speakers
- Connectivity:Android Auto / Apple CarPlay, Connected Car Tech
- Convenience:Wireless Charger, Power Back Door with Kick Sensor
Performance Analysis: Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros: What We Love
- Improved On-Road Dynamics: The GR-tuned suspension significantly improves handling and high-speed stability, making it a more confident and engaging SUV to drive.
- Exclusive Sporty Styling: The GR-S specific exterior and interior touches give it a unique, aggressive, and premium look that stands out.
- Retains Core Fortuner Strengths: It keeps the legendary toughness, powerful engine, and go-anywhere 4×4 capability that the Fortuner is known for.
Cons: Points for Consideration
- Firmer Ride Quality: The trade-off for better handling is a slightly stiffer ride, which might be less comfortable for some passengers on rough city roads.
- Significant Price Premium: The GR-S commands a high price for what is primarily a suspension upgrade and cosmetic package.
- No Power Increase: The engine performance is identical to the standard Fortuner Legender, with no power bump from Gazoo Racing.
Who Should Buy The Fortuner GR-S?
The Fortuner GR-S is the ultimate choice for:
- The Driving Enthusiast: Buyers who love the Fortuner’s presence but desire a more engaging and stable driving experience on highways and winding roads.
- The Fortuner Loyalist: Existing owners who want to upgrade to the most exclusive, top-of-the-line variant that the brand offers.
- The Statement Maker: Individuals who want a vehicle that combines immense road presence with the unique prestige and sporty DNA of the Gazoo Racing brand.
Final Verdict: The King of SUVs, Now with a Racing Edge
The Toyota Fortuner GR-S is a masterful fusion of two worlds: the unstoppable, go-anywhere spirit of the Fortuner and the performance-honed precision of Gazoo Racing. It successfully injects a welcome dose of driving pleasure into a vehicle celebrated for its toughness. The GR-tuned suspension is a meaningful upgrade that transforms the SUV’s on-road manners, making it a more composed and enjoyable machine to pilot. While it commands a significant premium, the GR-S offers a unique blend of exclusivity, sporty aesthetics, and enhanced dynamics that no other variant—or rival—can match. For the discerning buyer who demands the ultimate Fortuner experience, this is it.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)