Toyota Fortuner EXR

Highlights

• Genuine off-road rated
• Lowest depreciation in class
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating

Summary

This 2023 Toyota Fortuner EXR represents one of the most practical and reliable entry points into the mid-size SUV segment within the GCC market. With mileage that sits comfortably within the expected range for its age, it offers a well-maintained platform for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The white exterior is a strategic choice for the region, offering the best heat reflection during peak summer months while ensuring maximum resale liquidity when it comes time to upgrade. As an EXR trim, it balances essential rugged capabilities with the daily comforts needed for urban commuting in cities like Dubai or Muscat. This model stands out from its competitors by offering a genuine ladder-frame chassis that handles desert terrain far better than standard unibody crossovers. For a GCC buyer, the peace of mind provided by the extensive Al-Futtaim and Saud Bahwan service networks is the single most important factor that makes this car a safer long-term investment than its rivals.

This Car vs Other 2023 Fortuners

When looking at the 2023 market, this specific Fortuner is a standout example of a well-utilized vehicle that remains within its prime operational window. At 61,500 km, the mileage is perfectly in line with the GCC average of approximately 25,000 km per year, indicating it has likely been used for the typical mix of highway commuting and family duties. Unlike many high-mileage examples used for commercial purposes, this car retains the tight feel of a modern Toyota. The white paint is the highest-demand color in the UAE and Saudi Arabian markets, which significantly shortens the time-to-sell and helps maintain a higher asking price in the future compared to darker shades. Choosing a vehicle with this specific mileage profile means the first major service milestones are already documented, giving the next owner a clear path forward for maintenance. It is a balanced choice for someone who wants the modern features of a 2023 model without the immediate steep depreciation of a brand-new showroom car.

EXR vs Lower Trims

The EXR trim level is the sweet spot of the range, offering the critical upgrades that GCC buyers expect without the unnecessary complexity of the highest-tier models. Moving up from the base GXR models, the EXR focuses on functional luxury and improved interior materials that better withstand the harsh UV rays of the region. You get a significantly more refined infotainment experience and a multi-function steering wheel that makes long-distance highway cruising much safer and more convenient. The lighting package on the EXR provides better visibility during nighttime desert drives or dusty road conditions often encountered between emirates. Importantly, the EXR maintains the reinforced suspension and cooling systems that are vital for GCC reliability, ensuring the air conditioning remains ice-cold even when the car is stationary in 45°C traffic. It feels more substantial and premium inside than the base trims, making it a much better environment for family trips.

Fortuner vs Segment Rivals

In the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment, the Fortuner competes directly with the Mitsubishi Montero Sport and the Nissan Terra. While those rivals offer various tech gimmicks, the Fortuner leads specifically in the strength of its underlying mechanical architecture, which is shared with the legendary Hilux. This provides a level of durability on gravel roads and sandy tracks that unibody rivals simply cannot match. GCC buyers often prefer the Fortuner because of its superior approach and departure angles, making it a more capable weekend explorer for dune bashing or mountain trips in Hatta. The cabin cooling system is widely considered the best in its class, reaching comfortable temperatures in the second and third rows faster than the Nissan or Mitsubishi equivalents. Furthermore, the 80-liter fuel tank is a massive advantage for long-haul drives from Abu Dhabi to the Northern Emirates, requiring fewer stops at the pump during cross-country treks.

Running Costs & Resale

Running a Fortuner in the GCC is famously affordable due to the unparalleled availability of affordable parts and the simplicity of its 4-cylinder petrol engine. Real-world fuel consumption for this 2.7L powertrain averages around 10.5 L/100km on the highway, while stop-start city traffic in Riyadh or Dubai will see figures closer to 12.5 L/100km. Service intervals are standardized at 10,000 km, and because every town in the GCC has access to a Toyota-certified technician, maintenance costs are significantly lower than European or American rivals. From a resale perspective, the Fortuner is a GCC champion; it typically only sees an 8-10% annual depreciation rate, whereas many luxury SUVs can lose up to 18% in the same period. After three years of ownership, this car will retain a much higher percentage of its value than almost any other 7-seater on the market. Being a GCC-spec vehicle, it also remains eligible for easy insurance renewals and comprehensive service contracts across the region.

Performance & Capability

The most impressive aspect of the Fortuner is its 279 mm of ground clearance, which is among the highest in its segment. This capability allows it to navigate flooded streets during the rainy season or transition onto soft sand without the immediate risk of underbody damage. The 4-cylinder engine is tuned for reliability and torque, providing enough power for confident highway overtaking while remaining incredibly robust against the extreme heat of the Gulf. With its proper 4WD system, including a low-range transfer case, this car is a genuine off-roader that can handle much more than just a gravel parking lot. The automatic transmission is calibrated for smooth shifts, making the daily commute through busy city centers stress-free. Whether you are towing a small jet ski to the coast or carrying a full load of seven passengers across the desert, the chassis remains stable and predictable. It offers a commanding view of the road that gives drivers a sense of security and presence in fast-moving highway traffic.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside, the Fortuner is designed to be a sanctuary for up to seven passengers, with a theater-style seating arrangement that gives everyone a good view of the road. The air conditioning system is a highlight, featuring dedicated roof-mounted vents for both the second and third rows, ensuring that even the passengers in the very back stay cool during the peak of summer. The cabin insulation has been improved in this model year to better block out the wind noise common during high-speed highway travel at 120 km/h. Cargo space is highly flexible; the third-row seats fold up to the sides, a classic Toyota design that allows for massive boot volume when you are not carrying a full crew. The EXR interior features easy-to-clean materials that are perfect for families with children or those who frequently visit the beach and desert. The integration of modern connectivity features means the cabin serves as a functional mobile office or a mobile cinema for the kids on long road trips.

Safety

Safety is a paramount concern for GCC families, and the Fortuner carries a 5-Star NCAP rating to provide total peace of mind. This EXR trim comes standard with a comprehensive suite of airbags, including a driver-knee airbag, which is rare in this segment. It features advanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control, which are essential for maintaining grip on loose sand or oil-slicked asphalt after a rare rain shower. Hill-start Assist Control and Downhill Assist Control provide extra layers of protection when navigating the steep incline and descent of the UAE’s mountainous regions like Jebel Jais. The braking system is tuned for the heavy loads of a 7-seat SUV, providing consistent stopping power even when the vehicle is fully loaded. Unlike some rivals that reserve these features for the top-of-the-line trims, Toyota includes these core safety foundations across the EXR range to ensure every family is protected on the road.

The bottom line

This Fortuner EXR is the ultimate 'no-regrets' purchase for a GCC buyer who needs a dependable 7-seater that holds its value like gold. With its perfect balance of mileage, recent model year, and legendary reliability, this listing represents one of the most stable investments you can make in the current used car market.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.