In his in-depth review of the Toyota Fortuner GR-Sport (GR-S), Ciro De Siena helps prospective buyers understand what sets this flagship variant of South Africa’s top-selling Adventure SUV apart from its stablemates and competitors.
This is the Toyota Fortuner GR-S!
The current (2nd) iteration of the Toyota Fortuner was introduced in Mzansi in 2016. The Hilux-based Adventure SUV, which is produced at Prospecton in KwaZulu-Natal, notably underwent a facelift in 2023, gained 48V mild-hybrid variants in 2024, and earlier this year, welcomed a new GR-S flagship variant.
See also: Toyota Fortuner (2023) In-Depth Review
The packaging and spec of the GR-S, ostensibly the swansong of the 2nd-gen Fortuner, befit a range-topping variant. At R999 000 (July 2025), it commands a R48k premium over the 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX.
Ciro puts the Toyota Fortuner GR-S through its paces on tar and dirt roads, during which he discusses the flagship variant’s features, driving experience, practicality and where it now sits in the SUV market.
Performance Upgrades
The most significant mechanical upgrade of the Toyota Fortuner GR-S is its beefed-up suspension, which includes monotube shock absorbers. Ciro finds that the new setup delivers a marked improvement in both ride comfort and road-holding on challenging gravel roads. This upgrade is a clear differentiator, promising improved on and off-road refinement, which has not always been a strength of the Fortuner.
Under the bonnet, Toyota’s dependable 2.8-litre 4-cylinder GD6 engine has been given a performance boost. Its peak outputs of 165 kW and 550 Nm are the same as those found in the Hilux GR-Sport.
See also: Hilux GR Sport III – Toyota SA’s Best Bakkie?
Available in either Attitude Black or Pearl White, the Toyota Fortuner GR-S is distinguished by a sportier front-end styling, GR-Sport badging and black 18-inch GR-S alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres.
Interior Features
Inside, the cabin features a new Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible infotainment system, which is a welcome modern touch. Ciro (shown above) also chats about the practical aspects of the 2nd and 3rd rows, including the convenient USB ports and a 220V outlet for charging devices on the go.
See also: Toyota Fortuner – Top 5 Accessories to Consider
Ciro notes that while the 3rd-row seats, which fold in from the sides of the load bay, are a point of debate, this design does, in fact, maximise cargo space (unlike rivals, where they fold into the floor).
Opinion: The zero-cost trick Toyota is missing with Fortuner
Beyond the vehicle’s features, Ciro lists 2 key ownership considerations for South African consumers: depreciation and theft risk. A key advantage is that the Toyota Fortuner maintains a strong resale value with a lower depreciation rate compared with key rivals, such as the Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X.
See also: Car Depreciation – Which Adventure SUV Holds Value Best?
A significant disadvantage, however, is that the 7-seat SUV is a desirable target for criminal elements due to the high demand for its components, many of which it shares with the popular Hilux. Therefore, prospective buyers need to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of Fortuner ownership.
How much does a Toyota Fortuner cost in South Africa?
| Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 manual | R679 100 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 auto | R705 800 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 4×4 | R739 100 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 | R826 400 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 48V | R834 800 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 VX | R870 900 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 48V VX | R879 300 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 4×4 | R907 700 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 48V 4×4 | R918 600 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX | R950 900 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 48V 4×4 VX | R961 800 |
| Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 4×4 GR-Sport | R999 000 |
Prices (July 2025) include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 9-services/90 000 km service plan.
New Toyota Fortuner Specs & Prices in South Africa
Find a new/used Toyota Fortuner listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Summary
The Toyota Fortuner GR-S is a compelling, if pricey, new-vehicle option that combines a more refined driving experience with the 2025 CarsAwards: Brand of the Year‘s reputation for reliability. Ciro gives potential buyers a clear understanding of what they are getting for their money, distinguishing the GR-S as a range-topper with notable enhancements and a strong value proposition in its segment.
Now in the twilight of its product cycle, the once all-conquering Fortuner faces stiffer competition than ever before. See articles about the Japanese Adventure SUV’s new and well-established rivals below.
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Toyota Fortuner GR-S review: More Power, Worth the Price?
Toyota Fortuner (2023) In-Depth Review
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Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 (2016) Review
Comparisons
Ford Everest vs Toyota Fortuner: What to buy?
Comparative Review: Ford Everest 3.2 4×4 XLT vs Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 6At
Buyer’s Guide
