Toyota Fortuner 2021-2024

The 2024 Fortuner is the updated version with a stronger diesel engine and a revised media system. For a rental the age of the car matters most: in the rainy season, working suspension, brakes and tyres on a heavy vehicle count for more than on a light sedan.

What the Fortuner offers that nothing else here does: seven full seats, high ground clearance and a large reserve of diesel torque. The climb to the Big Buddha with a full load, a descent to a remote beach, a trip to the north of the island on a broken road are all situations where a Civic or a Camry feels poor and the Fortuner does not notice.

Be realistic about fuel: about 9 to 10 litres per 100 km. This is the thirstiest category in the fleet, roughly twice the hybrid Altis and Camry. Diesel fuel in Thailand is cheaper than petrol, which partly offsets the difference.

Check the drivetrain version when booking. For Phuket roads two wheel drive is enough in most cases.