Toyota Fortuner — would I buy it again? Honest answer after a year
Toyota Fortuner II Facelift, 2025, 238 hp (J / 4.0 AT / V6)
Toyota Fortuner II Facelift, 2025, 238 hp (J / 4.0 AT / V6)•
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My name is Nasser, I've lived in Dubai for 7 years. Work in logistics. Bought a Fortuner VXR 4.0 V6 a year ago. Done 22,000 km. Had a couple of moments of regret, but mostly — happy. Sharing whether I'd buy it again or not.
Do you regret not choosing a Prado or Land Cruiser instead?
Had a couple of moments. When it bounces on speed bumps — I think about the Prado. When it's noisy on the highway — same. But the price! Prado is 50-70 thousand more expensive. Land Cruiser is a different league entirely. For the money — Fortuner is the best option. Regret only when my wallet feels light, otherwise — no.
What would you choose now if you went back to the purchase moment?
Would take the same Fortuner. VXR trim and 4.0 V6 engine — just like now. No alternatives. Maybe a different color. But the car — the same. Hasn't disappointed in a year. Price-quality ratio — perfect balance.
Is the Fortuner comparable in comfort to German SUVs — like the BMW X5?
No. Not at all. Different worlds. X5 is comfort and premium. Fortuner is reliability and capability. German cars are softer, quieter, more expensive. But Fortuner doesn't break down. I choose reliability. Comparing them is pointless — they're not competitors.
How does the Fortuner fit into the Dubai lifestyle — is it "the" car for Dubai?
Yes. For Dubai — perfect. The climate, the roads, the desert, high curbs in parking lots — all its natural habitat. You don't worry about the car. It just works. In Dubai, confidence behind the wheel matters — the Fortuner gives that. It is the car for the Emirates.
Does the Fortuner have "character" or is it just a boring reliable Japanese car?
It has character. It's tough, stubborn, honest. Not a gentle German car. It's a workhorse, but with a soul. You feel it, it responds to your inputs. Boring? No. Predictable — yes. And that's its strength.
Would buy again. Prado is more expensive, Land Cruiser is a different universe. Fortuner — best value for money. Don't compare it to Germans — it's different. For Dubai — perfect. Has character. Recommend.
