2016 Toyota Fortuner AT Vs Toyota Innova Crysta AT: Diesel autos compared

Most SUVs end up spending their lifetimes on tarmac, be it city or the highway. And that is why the guzzling four-wheel drive option is given a boot and automatic transmission is pounced upon. At the end of the day, all we want is a cruiser that is convenient and of course economical. So here is the question many of us would be asking ourselves – what would be a better buy – the new Fortuner 4x2 AT or the Innova AT? Here are a few factors you need to consider.

Desirability - The Fortuner wins this one single-handedly. There is no denying the macho image of the Fortuner. Though the looks have become modern and more sophisticated, the sheer butch of its size is undeniable. Also the feeling of being in control at that riding height cannot be matched by an Innova. But, take a step back and think about the Innova. The new Innova Crysta gets the SUV-ish fascia and you do drive at decent height above the ground.

Convenience - The Fortuner is properly tall and getting in and out if it day in and day out might turn out to be tiresome. The ingress and egress is much more convenient in case of the Innova. Even in case of the third row, getting in and out of the third row of an Innova is much easier than in a Fortuner. If you are going to be chauffeur driven, you can opt for captain seats for the second row of the Innova. In case of the Fortuner, you cant. 

Equipment – In terms of equipment, the Innova almost matches the Fortuner. Both get similar touchscreen display entertainment system with steering mounted audio controls. Individual AC vents for each row with rear AC is available with both the Toyotas. Both get electrically adjustable driving seats, all power windows and electrically adjustable and foldable wing mirrors.

Performance – The Innova and the Fortuner share the same 2.8-litre diesel mills for the automatics developing 174bhp of power. In case of the Fortuner, the intake manifold has been changed and the ECU remapped to generate more torque to compensate for the extra weight. Both get the same six-speed automatic gearbox.

Fuel Economy – The ARAI fuel economy expected form the Innova Crysta is 14.29kmpl as compared to the 12.9kmpl of the Fortuner.

So, when you consider all factors, it turns out that Innova Crysta matches the Fortuner overall until you take into consideration the ultimate criterion – price. The top-spec Fortuner AT will cost you Rs 29.14 lakh ex-showroom, Delhi while the Innova is a good eight lakh cheaper at Rs 20.93 lakh. Also considering the cost of ownership, the Innova Crysta actually trumps the Fortuner in almost every aspect be it comfort, convenience or economy. The only thing missing would be the macho image.