Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed the removal of the flagship V6-powered variant from its locally built Fortuner range.

In our earlier story (with pricing) revealing the addition of new Epic and Epic Black derivatives to the local Fortuner line-up, we noted the absence of the 4,0-litre V6 petrol variant from the company's price list. And now Toyota SA has confirmed the news.

The Fortuner 4,0 V6 4x4 had been priced at R752 300 before its discontinuation, with its naturally aspirated six-cylinder petrol unit directing 175 kW and 376 N.m to all four corners via a six-speed automatic transmission.

Interestingly, the Japanese firm’s local arm also announced the removal of all manual models from the Fortuner line-up. Previously, the 2,4-litre turbodiesel engine could be paired with a six-speed manual cog-swapper, a transmission also offered with the 2,8-litre oil-burner (in either rear- or four-wheel drive).

While the aforementioned Epic and Epic Black packages have been applied to the remaining (automatic) 2,8 GD-6 models, the self-shifting 2,7-litre petrol and 2,4-litre turbodiesel variants continue unchanged.

The rejigging of the range comes ahead of an expected facelift for the popular bakkie-based SUV.

Original article from Car