Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive 48V versions introduced by Toyota Kirloskar Motor

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has introduced Neo Drive 48V models of its iconic Fortuner and Legender SUVs, marking a significant development in the luxury SUV category with the use of 48-volt hybrid technology. Announced on June 2, 2025, in Bangalore, this segment-first innovation aims to enhance fuel efficiency and deliver smoother performance. The Fortuner Neo Drive 48V is priced at ₹44.72 lakh, while the Legender Neo Drive 48V comes in at ₹50.09 lakh, both ex-showroom. Bookings began on the launch date, with deliveries scheduled to start by the third week of June.

Toyota’s 2.8-liter, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine powers these new models, which are combined with a 48-volt hybrid powertrain that includes a belt-integrated starting generator and a lithium-ion battery. This hybrid assist setup enables refined low-speed acceleration, better efficiency through regenerative braking, and quieter operation. Toyota has also included Smart Idle Start-Stop functionality, which shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, offering added fuel savings during city commutes.

The Neo Drive badge on these models signifies the presence of the hybrid system, which supports Toyota’s larger vision of offering diverse powertrain solutions aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, spoke at the event and stressed Toyota’s commitment to fulfilling changing consumer needs via innovation, style, and a multi-path approach to sustainability.

Both the Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive 48V retain their unique appeal, with the Fortuner maintaining a rugged, off-road-ready design and the Legender continuing its urban, premium styling with features like dual-tone body colors, sleek split LED headlamps, and refined aesthetics. Inside, both models offer an upscale experience, featuring dual-tone leather interiors, soft-touch panels, and ergonomically designed seating.

Toyota has outfitted these models with a 360-degree panoramic camera to improve visibility, wireless smartphone charging, and Multi-Terrain Select, which changes speed, braking, and traction control according on off-road situations. On the safety front, both SUVs come with seven airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Assist Control, Traction Control, and several advanced features like WIL Concept Seats and pre-tensioner seatbelts.

To support the new launch, Toyota offers tailored financing options, including eight-year funding plans, Smart Balloon Finance, and bundled Value-Added Services. Buyers also receive five years of free roadside support and a standard three-year/100,000-kilometer warranty, which can be extended to five years/220,000 kilometers. The Fortuner, a longstanding leader since 2009, continues to set the benchmark in durability and reliability. Toyota’s robust production capabilities at its Bidadi plants further reinforce its strong presence in the Indian automotive market.