Latest news with #NeoDrive
India Today
4 days ago
- Automotive
- India Today
2025 Toyota Legender mild-hybrid review, first drive: Is this the most fuel-efficient Fortuner yet?
The Toyota Fortuner doesn't need an introduction. It's been India's default big SUV for nearly two decades. Simply put, it's tough, dependable, and immune to trends. While rivals have come and gone (some quietly, some not), the Fortuner has only grown stronger in numbers and street cred. But for all its dominance, there's one thing it's never been known for is efficiency. Until now. Spot the difference? No point, it's exactly the same as before. advertisementToyota has added a 48V mild-hybrid system to the Fortuner's 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine and slapped on the 'Neo Drive' tagname. It's not the kind of hybrid that lets you coast in silence or drive on electric power. This is more subtle. Think smoother engine starts, torque assist at low speeds, and marginally better fuel economy. So, is this mild-hybrid Fortuner the smarter choice? Or just a clever badge and a small bump in numbers?Does it look any different? Any new features?Not at all, honestly, you'll be hard-pressed to find any differences. The only thing that sets both the Legender and Fortuner apart is a badge that reads 'Neo Drive' at the back. That's it. The colours, alloy wheels, and design language are identical. The tired old cliche of 'if it ain't broken...', sits perfectly with the Fortuner. I'd say it's a poster child for it. The cabin layout remains the same, albeit with some minor changes. On the inside, there's now a wireless charger, which was missing from the Fortuner, but was already part of the Legender's feature list. There's also a 360-degree camera added to the mix, which will be extremely helpful given the dimensions. There's also the smart start-stop function, and there's an airbag indicator on the dash, which is also new. There are a total of six different settings to choose from that vary according to four-wheel-drive modes. One of the prominent changes on the inside is the multi-terrain modes, which differ according to the four-wheel drive modes. For example, L4 gets rock, mud, sand and auto. H4 gets deep snow, mud, sand, dirt and auto; while H2 has a choice between sport, normal and eco. However, Toyota has removed the ventilated seats, and there's still no sunroof in it feel different to drive?Before discussing the driving experience, it's essential to understand the components of the 48V infrastructure. Right up front, the alternator has been replaced with a 48V motor generator; essentially, it acts as an assist to the engine and generator to recover energy during deceleration. It also works as a starter motor during engine restart and is connected to the serpentine belt. Under the passenger seat sits the DC-DC converter, which is there to convert high-voltage DC 48V electricity to standard DC 12V electricity, which then supplies power to charge the 12V auxiliary battery. That brings us to the 48V lithium-ion battery, which sits between the second and third row, and stores electrical energy recovered during braking and deceleration or regenerative braking. It also supplies power to the motor generator during acceleration and start-stop operations. FYI, the motor power is rated 8.5kW or 11.5bhp, and the warranty of the 48V battery pack remains the same as the standard warranty of the car (three years/one lakh kilometres). That familiar display between the dials has a new addition for the 48V system. Net result? Acceleration from a standstill feels more spirited, and roll-ons also feel smoother. That distinct clatter of the diesel mill also feels more refined, and the whole experience made the Fortuner, or Legender in my case, more finely distilled. It's still a sledgehammer of a car, one that will do its job well, just like it before this update. But now, the sledgehammer's handle has a comfortable cover on it. There's a neat readout on the tiny LCD in the middle of the two analogue dials displaying the charge going back into the batteries when decelerating, and that does feel odd at first, coupled with this big, burly SUV. The smart start-stop system is also fairly aggressive. I must say, it works well, given the size of the motor. We didn't get a chance to test out the multiple terrain modes on offer, which differ between L4, H4 and H2. This is still the same Fortuner that many have come to love, just with a few mindful upgrades. advertisementAlthough Toyota officials claim that this 48V setup will aid off-roading to some extent. There's also no change to the water wading capacity, which still sits at 700mm. One thing that did feel a bit odd was the spongy feel from the brakes, but that could've been because of the brake testing at the track earlier. Most importantly, Toyota states that this new mild-hybrid variant will give 43km more than the standard equivalent variant. It's important to note that there are no changes to power or torque figures, and it still sits at 204bhp and 500Nm. In the long run, with that extra price that one pays, one should be able to recover that money. Overall, the driving experience isn't very different from Fortuner or Legender before this, but these subtle and mindful updates make an already well-rounded proper SUV even speak about price first. The Toyota Fortuner 4x4 AT Neo Drive costs Rs 44.72 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Legender costs Rs 50.09 lakh (ex-showroom). Also, these variants will replace the 4x4 AT variants available, and this will be the default choice. The price difference is about Rs 2 lakh, and that could feel like a lot. That 'Neo Drive' badge is the only change on the outside. advertisementTo me, the Fortuner is a kind of vehicle wherein people won't mind paying top dollar, simply because there's an understanding of the value Toyota brings to the table. I'd love to see a strong hybrid petrol version, and the mild-hybrid tech coming to the 4x2 variants as well. What's not to like about a more efficient Fortuner or Legender? Fuel savings FTW!Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
NDTV
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
Toyota Hyryder Prestige Package Launched; Gets Ten Dealer-Fitted Accessories
Toyota Kirloskar Motor has introduced a limited-period 'Prestige Package' for its popular self-charging hybrid SUV- the Urban Cruiser Hyryder. The brand claims that the package has been designed to elevate the SUV's already bold and sophisticated appeal. This exclusive accessory bundle offers customers an added layer of style, presence, and functionality for everyday driving. Available from July 2025, the Prestige Package includes 10 high-value, dealer-fitted, and genuine accessories that perfectly complement the strong, urban design of the Hyryder: Door Visor - Premium with SS Insert Hood Emblem Rear Door Lid Garnish Fender Garnish Body Cladding Front Bumper Garnish Head Lamp Garnish Rear Bumper Garnish Rear Lamp Garnish - Chrome Back Door Garnish Each accessory has been curated to seamlessly blend with the Hyryder 's distinct SUV character-amplifying its muscular stance, chrome highlights, and striking silhouette, while also offering added protection and durability. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder is a first-in-segment self-charging strong hybrid electric powertrain that combines petrol and electric power for exceptional fuel efficiency and smooth, silent performance. It is powered by Toyota's 1.5L TNGA Atkinson cycle engine and an advanced electric motor, the hybrid variant is ideal for both city and highway drives. The Neo Drive (mild-hybrid) variants come with a 1.5L K-series engine, offered with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. For added capability, select trims also feature an intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. On the outside, the Hyryder features a bold Crystal Acrylic Grille, twin LED DRLs, sculpted character lines, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin blends comfort and convenience with ventilated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a 360-degree camera. Practical touches like rear reclining seats, rear AC vents, USB ports, a 60:40 split rear seat, and more. The brand insists prospective buyers visit their nearest dealership to explore the Prestige Package and experience the enhanced suite for the Toyota hybrid SUV.
India Today
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Prestige Package unveiled
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has unveiled a special edition accessory bundle dubbed the 'Prestige Package' for its popular hybrid SUV, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Aimed at enhancing the SUV's road presence and premium appeal, the limited-period package includes a curated set of 10 accessories, available at Toyota dealerships starting this to elevate the Hyryder's SUV character, the Prestige Package includes:Door Visor with Stainless Steel InsertHood EmblemRear Door Lid GarnishFender GarnishBody CladdingFront Bumper GarnishHeadlamp GarnishRear Bumper GarnishRear Lamp Garnish (Chrome)Back Door GarnishadvertisementToyota says each component has been thoughtfully selected to amplify the Hyryder's urban styling while also offering added protection and durability for daily usage. Launched in 2022, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has cemented its place in India's B-SUV segment, particularly due to its first-in-segment strong hybrid electric powertrain. The hybrid variant combines Toyota's 1.5-litre TNGA Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an advanced electric motor, offering an optimal blend of power, fuel efficiency, and near-silent on offer are Neo Drive (mild-hybrid) variants powered by Suzuki's 1.5L K-series engine, available with both manual and automatic transmissions. For added versatility, select trims are equipped with an intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Hyryder's exterior design boasts Toyota's global SUV DNA, featuring a Crystal Acrylic Grille, twin LED DRLs, sculpted body lines, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the SUV offers segment-leading features like ventilated leather seats, panoramic sunroof, 9-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a 360-degree practical highlights include rear reclining seats, rear AC vents, multiple USB ports, and a 60:40 split rear seat, making it ideal for Indian families seeking space and backs the Hyryder with a comprehensive ownership package including:66 official accessoriesA standard 3-year/1,00,000 km warranty, extendable to 5 years/2,20,000 kmAn 8-year/1,60,000 km hybrid battery warrantySince its debut, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has resonated strongly with Indian consumers, recently surpassing the 1,00,000-unit sales mark. This milestone underscores growing trust in Toyota's hybrid technology and the brand's vision for sustainable mobility in to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Toyota Kirloskar June sales rise 5% to 28,869 units; H1 2025 sales up 16%
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) continued its growth trajectory in June 2025, posting a 5 per cent year-on-year increase in total sales. The automaker sold 28,869 units during the month, up from 27,474 units in June 2024. This includes 26,453 units sold domestically and 2,416 units exported. For the first half of calendar year 2025, TKM recorded cumulative sales of 1,74,885 units, marking a strong 16 per cent growth compared to the 1,50,250 units sold during the same period in 2024. Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President – Sales, Service & Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said 'TKM sales in June 2025 were 5 per cent higher than the same month last year. We continue to engage closely with our customers through robust after-sales support and value-added offerings designed to enrich the ownership experience. As we move ahead, our focus remains firmly on serving evolving customer needs.' A notable product milestone for the month was the introduction of the Fortuner and Legender in their new 'Neo Drive' avatars, equipped with an advanced 48-Volt system that improves fuel efficiency, driving performance, and comfort. On the corporate front, TKM also signed an MoU with Ohmium International to explore scalable green hydrogen solutions in India, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable mobility and clean energy technologies.
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
2025 Toyota Fortuner Neo Drive: How the 48V Mild-Hybrid System Works
Toyota Kirloskar Motor recently launched the 2025 Toyota Fortuner with mild-hybrid technology . The mild-hybrid tech is available in both the standard Fortuner and the Legender with prices starting from Rs 44.72 lakh and Rs 50.09 lakh (ex-showroom, respectively). Interested customers can book the SUV online or by visiting their nearest Toyota dealership, with deliveries set to begin in the third week of June. Toyota India calls it 'Neo Drive', a label also used for the mild-hybrid versions of the Hyryder and Glanza. Talking about the engine, the Fortuner continue to get tried and tested 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine which puts out 204hp of power and 500Nm torque. A 48V mild-hybrid system has been added to the diesel engine, incorporating a belt-driven starter generator and lithium-ion battery. It brings auto start-stop capability for better mileage and contributes to refined low-speed performance and reduced cabin noise. So how exactly does this system work? This mild-hybrid system was first introduced in South Africa back in 2023 with a Toyota Hilux pickup. And later in April 2024, the Fortuner with the same tech was launched in South Africa. In India, the Fortuner Neo Drive gets the same tech with a 2.8-litre diesel engine found in the Hilux, along with a 48V hybrid system comprising a lithium-ion battery, motor generator, and DC-DC converter. Under the Neo Drive system, the Fortuner uses an 8.5kW/85Nm permanent magnet synchronous motor. While peak output remains at 204hp and 500Nm, the hybrid assist enhances performance during low-speed driving. The Hilux and Fortuner in South Africa, meanwhile, benefit from a more powerful 12kW (16hp) unit. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Defender's most Towering version: India plans, electric Defender and more | TOI Auto Toyota also claims that the Neo Drive system will improve fuel efficiency by around five per cent and this gain primarily comes from regenerative braking , which captures energy typically lost during deceleration. The efficiency is further boosted by a 20% drop in engine idling speed—from 720rpm to 600rpm. The drivers can also customise the start-stop system to prefer either a standard or extended stop; in the extended setting, air conditioning operation is also enhanced. The 48V battery, made up of 13 cells and weighing 7kg, is located beneath the seat, while the DC-DC converter is positioned inside the cabin for protection. The motor generator is mounted high to avoid water exposure, and the belt-drive system has been specially reinforced for off-road durability. A dual-arm tensioner minimises noise and vibration, while the ribbed belt incorporates a high-strength cotton fabric to further suppress noise levels. Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India .
