Toyota Prado vs Toyota Fortuner!

Introduction 2017 Toyota Prado vs 2017 Toyota Fortuner – A Kenyan Perspective

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Toyota Fortuner are both popular 7-seater diesel SUVs in Kenya, known for their toughness and reliability. In 2017, these two shared a lot under the skin but targeted slightly different buyers. The Prado is positioned as a more upscale luxury off-roader, while the Fortuner is a rugged yet family-friendly SUV with a lighter, more affordable package. Both vehicles can handle Kenya’s mix of smooth tarmac, rough roads, and off-road trails, but they offer distinct driving experiences. This comparison focuses on the highest trim diesel variants of each model available in 2017, highlighting on-road and off-road performance, handling, comfort, steering feel, off-road capabilities, and driver ergonomics relevant to Kenyan drivers.

Engine Performance

Engine and Power: Both the 2017 Prado and Fortuner diesel models come equipped with a similar 2.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine. In these top trims, the engine produces around 174 horsepower (130 kW) and 450 Nm of torque. This gives both SUVs strong low-end power, useful for climbing steep terrain or overtaking on highways. In practice, neither feels underpowered, but there is a difference in how that power is delivered due to the vehicles’ weight and tuning. The Prado is heavier (about 200 kg more) and uses a full-time 4WD system, which contributes to a more solid but slightly slower feel in acceleration. The Fortuner, being smaller and lighter, feels a bit more eager and responsive when you step on the throttle. Reviewers note that the Fortuner’s lighter weight and shorter throttle travel make it feel livelier compared to the Prado’s more relaxed character. However, both SUVs have very similar outright performance on paper, with 0–100 km/h times in the ~12-second range (the Prado might be on the lower end of that depending on spec). For everyday driving in Kenya, the diesels provide ample torque for carrying passengers, tackling hills, or towing. The fuel efficiency is also comparable – roughly in the 8–10 km/L (10–12 L/100km) range in mixed driving, with the lighter Fortuner sometimes achieving slightly better mileage.

Transmission: Both vehicles feature a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission in their top trims, which helps deliver power effectively and keeps the diesel engine in its torque band. Shifts are generally smooth and geared for torque, which is great for off-road crawling and urban stop-and-go. The Prado’s powertrain is noted for its refinement – Toyota included balance shafts in the Prado’s diesel to reduce vibrations, making it exceptionally smooth and quiet for a four-cylinder. The Fortuner’s engine (essentially the same unit) lacks those balance shafts in some markets, so it can be a bit louder and less dampened, though still far from crude. At cruising speeds, the Prado’s cabin remains a bit quieter due to extra insulation, whereas you’ll hear a bit more diesel growl in the Fortuner’s cabin when accelerating hard. Overall, both deliver strong performance and efficiency for Kenyan conditions, with the Prado emphasizing smoothness and the Fortuner a touch more raw responsiveness.

On-Road Handling and Steering Feel

Ride Quality: On paved roads, the Prado and Fortuner have noticeably different personalities. The Prado is tuned for comfort and stability – it soaks up bumps and road imperfections with a cushioned ride, feeling “heavy, solid and unflustered” even at highway speeds. This SUV has a long-standing reputation in Kenya for being a relaxed cruiser on tarmac. It exhibits some body roll in corners due to its softer suspension, but this translates to a plush ride that smooths out rough tarmac patches and potholes. By contrast, the Fortuner’s suspension is stiffer. It handles body roll better (the Fortuner stays flatter around corners), but the trade-off is that you feel more of the small bumps and cracks on the road. One Kenyan reviewer noted that the Fortuner (based on the Hilux pickup chassis) is “less wallowy” but so stiff “every little imperfection will be felt” and the car can wander slightly on uneven tarmac. In essence, the Fortuner’s ride is firmer – great for reducing lean in turns or when carrying heavy loads, but it can be a bit jarring on rough city streets. Drivers who dislike any hint of body roll might prefer the Fortuner’s taut setup, while those who prioritize a smooth ride will appreciate the Prado’s suspension tuning.

Handling and Agility: The Fortuner’s lighter weight and smaller dimensions give it an edge in agility. On winding roads, the Fortuner feels more nimble and “sportier” than the Prado. The steering in the Fortuner is relatively quick and offers more feedback when driving enthusiastically, so you can feel what the front wheels are doing a bit better. This can inspire more confidence if you’re pushing through twisty sections or overtaking – the Fortuner responds eagerly to steering inputs and generally feels like a smaller vehicle from behind the wheel. The Prado, on the other hand, has a more relaxed steering feel. Its steering is light and easy, which is great for maneuvering such a large SUV in town or on long drives, but it’s not as communicative as the Fortuner’s. When pressed hard on tight roads, the Prado is stable but doesn’t feel as agile due to its extra bulk and softer setup. In comparison, the Fortuner definitely “feels the sportier of the two” on tight tarmac. That said, at higher speeds on less-than-perfect roads, the Prado comes into its own – it remains composed and steady where the Fortuner can become a little twitchy over bumps. The Fortuner’s rear solid axle can exhibit some “bump-steer” (a slight steering wiggle) when hitting dips or rough patches at speed, a reminder of its truck-based roots. The Prado’s longer wheelbase and refined suspension keep it more settled at speed on bumpy roads, giving the driver more confidence on Kenya’s uneven highways. In summary, the Fortuner offers a tighter, more responsive feel on smooth roads, whereas the Prado delivers a more comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride when the pavement gets rough.

Steering Feel: Steering weight is subjective, but generally the Prado’s steering is tuned to be lighter for ease of use, whereas the Fortuner’s might feel slightly heavier, contributing to that sense of feedback. Neither is a sports car in terms of steering precision, but the Fortuner’s helm gets praise for feeling more connected especially during spirited driving. The Prado’s light steering is excellent for urban driving and parking, considering its size. In tight Nairobi streets or parking lots, the Prado’s easy steering and good visibility help mitigate its bulk. The Fortuner is a bit narrower, which also helps in the city. Both SUVs have a similar turning circle, but drivers might find the Fortuner easier to thread through traffic simply because it’s a smaller vehicle overall. Ultimately, if you enjoy a more engaging steering feel, the Fortfuner provides that, whereas the Prado’s steering prioritizes effortless control over feedback. Both systems are power-assisted and reliable on Kenya’s varied road surfaces.

Off-Road Capabilities

When the tarmac ends, both the 2017 Prado and Fortuner show their Toyota 4x4 heritage. Kenya’s rough terrains – from muddy rural roads to rocky trails – are well within the reach of these SUVs, but there are key differences in hardware and capability.

Drivetrain and 4WD System: The Prado’s top trims come with full-time 4WD with a locking center differential, meaning it is always in four-wheel drive on all surfaces. This gives the Prado a very sure-footed feel on mixed surfaces (for example, when dashing from a paved road onto a dirt path, there’s no need to fiddle with switches – traction is always there). The Fortuner, by contrast, uses a part-time 4WD system derived from the Hilux. In normal driving it operates in RWD (rear-wheel drive) mode, and the driver must manually engage 4H (four-high) when extra traction is needed on slippery or off-road conditions. This system is robust, but it means the Fortuner shouldn’t be driven in 4WD on dry pavement. For off-road use, you shift the Fortuner into 4H or 4L (low range) as required. Both vehicles have low-range gearing for tackling steep climbs or deep mud/sand. The gearing and torque make crawling over obstacles relatively easy in both. However, the Prado’s full-time system, coupled with features like a locking center diff and sometimes a rear diff lock (depending on trim), makes it very user-friendly off-road – even a novice driver can just point and go in many situations. A veteran Kenyan off-roader would note that either SUV can reach remote villages or safari camps, but the Prado’s extra traction and electronic aids give it an edge in versatility.

Suspension and Traction: The Prado has an advantage in suspension articulation and off-road finesse. Its suspension is designed for off-road comfort and wheel travel. In fact, the Prado’s wheel travel (how much the wheels can move up/down to stay in contact with uneven ground) is greater than the Fortuner’s. One review found the Fortuner’s coil-sprung rear axle had about 440 mm of wheel travel, which is a bit less than the Prado’s travel (and even less than the Hilux pickup it’s based on). This means that in very uneven terrain, a Prado’s wheels are a bit more likely to stay on the ground, maintaining traction, whereas the Fortuner might lift a wheel sooner. The Prado’s top variants in 2017 (like the VX or Kakadu trim in some markets) also include advanced off-road tech such as Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, which automatically manage throttle and braking over tricky terrain. These systems let the Prado essentially drive itself out of very difficult conditions at the push of a button – a feature the Fortuner lacks at that level. The Fortuner isn’t bare-bones though; it typically comes with a rear differential lock on its off-road models, which is very useful for clawing through mud or sand. Engaging the Fortuner’s rear diff lock can help in extreme conditions, although when the lock is on, the vehicle’s electronic traction aids for the other wheels are turned off. Both SUVs have electronic traction control systems; the Fortuner’s is a slightly newer system and operates a bit more quietly, while the Prado’s older system can make noise as it clamps brakes on slipping wheels. In practice, both traction control systems work well to manage wheelspin on loose surfaces.

Ground Clearance and Angles: The Fortuner’s body sits a tad higher from the ground – it boasts about 225 mm of ground clearance, slightly more than the Prado’s ~220 mm. In real-world use, this difference is marginal, but the Fortuner might scrape its belly a little less over tall obstacles. The Fortuner also has a slightly better ramp-over angle (important for cresting sharp bumps) due to its shorter wheelbase, whereas the Prado has a slight edge in the approach angle (better for climbing up steep ledges without the front bumper hitting). Both have similar departure angles around 25°, so neither’s rear end is significantly more likely to drag when coming off an obstacle. Water fording depth is also equal – both can wade through about 700 mm of water without modifications, which is useful for Kenya’s seasonal floods and river crossings.

Off-Road Driving Experience: On rugged tracks, the Prado’s ride quality shines – its suspension is very supple, so it comfortably absorbs ruts and corrugations, allowing for faster and less jarring travel on washboard roads. The Fortuner’s ride off-road is still good (especially compared to a pickup truck), but not as plush as the Prado’s. If you’re on a rocky trail, the Prado’s wheels stay planted and the cabin remains relatively composed, whereas the Fortuner might feel a bit more bouncy in comparison. However, the Fortuner’s smaller size and lighter weight can be advantages on very narrow or soft trails – it’s slightly easier to maneuver and less likely to sink in sand due to a lower weight per tire. Both vehicles have proven capable in real Kenyan off-road scenarios, from safari expeditions to construction site visits. A local review noted that either will do what the other can off-road, assuming an experienced driver is behind the wheel. For a novice off-roader, the Prado’s extra aids and constant 4WD could inspire more confidence, whereas an expert might enjoy the Fortuner’s more hands-on, rugged character.

In summary, the Prado edges out the Fortuner in off-road prowess by a small margin – thanks to more sophisticated 4x4 systems and suspension – but both are very competent off-road SUVs suitable for Kenya’s toughest conditions. The choice might come down to how frequently and how extreme your off-road driving is. If you regularly venture deep into rough terrain or value absolute ease of driving off-road, the Prado’s heritage as a Land Cruiser serves well. If your use is more occasional off-roading or light trails, the Fortuner will get the job done while saving some money.

Comfort and Interior

Interior Space: Step inside, and you immediately notice the Prado is the larger vehicle. The Prado’s cabin is spacious and airy, with ample shoulder and headroom in the first two rows. Three adults can sit comfortably in the Prado’s second row without rubbing shoulders, which is a testament to its extra width. The Fortuner’s cabin, while nicely designed, feels narrower and a bit lower than the Prado’s. Tall drivers and passengers will still find sufficient legroom and headroom in the Fortuner’s first and second rows, but overall it’s a cosier fit. Both SUVs are 7-seaters, but their third-row arrangements differ. The Prado’s third-row seats fold flat into the floor when not in use, creating a level cargo area. The Fortuner’s third row flips up to the sides of the cargo area instead. This means that when you fold the Fortuner’s third row, you get a deeper boot well but slightly narrower space between the wheel arches (since the seats hang on the sides). The Prado’s folded seats don’t intrude in the cargo bay, but the Prado as a whole is longer, so parking it in tight spots is a bit more of a challenge. In terms of third-row comfort, neither SUV’s rearmost seat is great for tall adults on long trips, but the Prado offers more shoulder and headroom back there than the Fortuner. For a family with teenagers or adults occasionally in the third row, the Prado will feel less cramped. Both vehicles have rear AC vents to keep all passengers cool in the Kenyan heat, a critical feature.

Build Quality and Finish: Being the more premium offering, the Prado’s interior has the edge in materials. In the highest trim (often called VX or VX-L in Kenya), the Prado comes with leather upholstery, woodgrain or metallic trim accents, and a generally upscale feel. The dashboard is solid and functional – some might say the design is a bit conservative (it hadn’t changed much by 2017), but everything feels well put-together. The Fortuner’s interior in 2017 was newer and more modern in design, often featuring two-tone finishes and an attractive layout. It also can be had with leather in the top-spec model (Toyota sometimes offered brown leather in the Fortuner). However, there are more hard plastics in the Fortuner, especially on the dash and door panels, compared to the Prado. That said, the Fortuner’s fit and finish are still high quality and durable – it’s just not as plush as the Prado. One user comparison quipped that the Prado feels more “luxury” while the Fortuner is more “utilitarian”, with more plastic surfaces inside. Both vehicles being Toyota, everything is built to last and handle abuse (important for Kenyan market where conditions can be tough on cars). Switchgear (buttons, knobs) in the Prado tends to have a more solid, tactile feel, whereas the Fortuner shares some switchgear with the Hilux, which is a bit more basic. In the highest trims, both SUVs come with features like touchscreen infotainment (with navigation), Bluetooth, a cool box center console (refrigerated compartment) and multiple airbags for safety. The Prado might add a few extra luxuries like a sunroof, power-adjustable memory seats, or even a rear-seat entertainment system in some versions, depending on the specific package. The Fortuner focuses on the essentials – it has automatic climate control, a decent sound system (top trims even getting a JBL premium audio in some markets), and conveniences like keyless entry and push-start. Overall, the Prado’s interior delivers a higher level of comfort and luxury, while the Fortuner provides a comfortable, albeit slightly less plush, environment that is perfectly adequate for family and daily use.

Ride Comfort: We touched on ride quality in the handling section, but from a comfort perspective: the Prado’s seats and suspension tuning make it a very comfortable cruiser. Long drives upcountry in Kenya (say, Nairobi to Mombasa or into the Maasai Mara) will be a bit more relaxing in the Prado – the seats are large and supportive, and that softer suspension means occupants feel fewer jolts. The Fortuner’s seats are also comfortable (the top trim Fortuner in 2017 usually had powered driver’s seat and leather trim), but they are slightly firmer than the Prado’s, and the ride transmits more vibration into the cabin on rough tarmac. On a smooth highway, both are fine, but on a rough road, the Prado’s occupants will have a smoother experience. Noise levels inside are also lower in the Prado; it has better sound insulation so you hear less wind and road noise at speed. In the Fortuner, you might notice a bit more wind noise at highway speeds and a bit more engine noise under acceleration. Still, both SUVs are comfortable for long journeys and have strong air conditioning for comfort in Kenya’s warm climate.

Driver Ergonomics and Visibility

Driving Position: Both the Prado and Fortuner offer a high, commanding driving position that SUV owners love. You sit up tall with a clear view over traffic – particularly useful on Kenyan roads where seeing over matatus (minibuses) and trucks can help in planning overtakes. The Prado, being larger, has a slightly higher seating height, but the difference is minor. Notably, the Fortuner’s driving position is well thought out: unlike some other pickup-derived SUVs, the Fortuner offers both tilt and telescopic (reach) steering wheel adjustment, allowing drivers to find a comfortable position. This was highlighted as a plus because some rivals (and even some older Toyota models) didn’t have a telescoping steering wheel, making it harder for very tall or short drivers to get comfy. The Prado also has a tilt-and-telescopic steering adjust (it’s expected at its price point) and usually comes with an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat in top trims, so finding a perfect driving position is easy in the Prado as well. In terms of ergonomics, the Prado’s seats are bigger and cushier, which benefits larger drivers on long journeys. The Fortuner’s seats are slightly narrower but still supportive; some drivers might prefer the Fortuner’s slightly firmer seats which can feel more gripping, whereas others will love the Prado’s sofa-like plushness.

Controls and Dashboard Layout: Toyota designs generally prioritize ease of use. In both SUVs, the dashboard controls are logically laid out and within easy reach of the driver. The Prado’s dash has more buttons due to additional features (for example, if equipped with off-road terrain settings, adjustable suspension, etc., those controls are on the center console). It can seem a bit busy at first, but everything is clearly labeled. The Fortuner’s dashboard is simpler; with fewer complex off-road gadgets, it has a cleaner look with large knobs for climate control and a touchscreen interface for infotainment. The learning curve for either vehicle is not steep – a driver can quickly get used to where the headlights, wipers, 4WD lever (or dial) are. One ergonomic difference is the tailgate: The Prado has a side-hinged rear door (opening like a gate) with the spare tire mounted on it (for the 2017 models commonly imported to Kenya). This door is heavy and opens towards the curb, which can be a little inconvenient when loading in tight spots or parallel parking. The Fortuner has a top-hinged liftgate (tailgate that lifts upward) with the spare tire under the rear of the car. The Fortuner’s tailgate is often power-assisted in top trims (you can open it with a button or key fob, which is handy). While the Prado’s side-opening door provides a wide opening, it requires more clearance behind the vehicle to swing out – something to keep in mind in tight urban parking.

Visibility: Both SUVs offer good visibility overall. The driving position height helps see over the bonnet and gives a clear view of the road. The Prado has large side mirrors and generous glass area, making it easy to check blind spots. The Fortuner, being slightly narrower, has a narrower rear window due to its styling, but it still provides a decent view. In 2017 top grades, both vehicles likely have a rear-view camera to aid reversing. The Prado VX/VX-L might also include a 360-degree camera or parking sensors, features that assist in maneuvering such a big vehicle. Fortuner in its highest spec (like the “Crusade” in some markets) also came with rear sensors and camera, but not a 360 cam. On the road, drivers will find the Prado feels bigger to drive, but very stable, whereas the Fortuner feels more compact and easier to place in traffic. In city environments like Nairobi, the Fortuner’s smaller footprint and tighter turning feel are advantageous. However, the Prado’s commanding view and presence give the driver a sense of security and authority on the road – one feels almost invincible driving it, which is part of its appeal.

In terms of driver fatigue, both are comfortable, but the Prado’s extra refinement (less noise, softer ride) can make a difference on a very long day’s drive. Many Kenyan Prado owners love the fact that they can drive long distances upcountry and arrive less tired. Fortuner drivers will also be comfortable, but might feel just a bit more of the road’s toll on their body after a full day’s journey due to the firmer ride and slightly higher noise levels.

Conclusion

Living with the Prado vs Fortuner in Kenya: Both the 2017 Prado and Fortuner are excellent SUVs for Kenyan conditions, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. The Prado, being the more premium Land Cruiser, offers a more refined and plush experience – it’s quieter, smoother, and more spacious, with a proven record of durability on tough terrain. It also comes with practical advantages like a massive 150-liter fuel tank (thanks to twin tanks) for an extended driving range – great for long safaris or remote area travel where fuel stations are scarce. On the downside, it’s a heavier vehicle with a big diesel engine, so fuel economy is only average and it’s a large machine to maneuver in congested city streets.

The Fortuner, meanwhile, emerged as a value-for-money alternative that still delivers genuine off-road capability and solid on-road performance. It’s more agile in city traffic, easier to park, and generally more efficient with its fuel. It provides the important modern comforts and safety features one expects, and even a touch of luxury in top trims – without reaching the Prado’s level of opulence. For many Kenyan families and professionals, the Fortuner hits a sweet spot: you get seven seats, diesel economy, and go-anywhere toughness in a package that is less expensive to buy and run. Its downside is that it’s not as plush or as forgiving over rough roads as the Prado, and it has a smaller fuel tank (about 80 liters) so you’ll stop for fuel more often on long trips. Also, when pushing both vehicles to their limits, the Prado can go a bit further in extreme off-road scenarios, and it will keep you slightly more comfortable while doing so.

Bottom line: If your priority is rugged luxury and maximum capability – and your budget allows – the 2017 Toyota Prado diesel in VX/VXL trim will likely impress you with its combination of comfort and go-anywhere confidence. On the other hand, if you want a dependable, modern 4x4 SUV that’s easier on the wallet and still highly capable for both daily use and weekend adventures, the 2017 Toyota Fortuner diesel (top trim) is a fantastic choice. Many Kenyan drivers consider the Prado the ideal SUV for harsh rural conditions and long-distance travel, whereas the Fortuner is seen as a more urban-friendly SUV that can tackle occasional off-road tasks. Both vehicles carry Toyota’s reputation for reliability, and both will serve a Kenyan owner well for years; it ultimately comes down to your needs, preferences, and budget.

Comparison Table: 2017 Prado VX-L vs 2017 Fortuner (Top Diesel Trim)

Sources: Toyota 4x4 comparison reviews, Kenyan automotive experts, and manufacturer specifications. The above comparison reflects the driving experiences and key specs of the 2017 Prado and Fortuner diesel top trims in the Kenyan context.

Hire a Prado or Fortuner in Kenya

If you are looking to hire a Prado or Fortuner in Kenya, you can do so with us at EliteMotion Luxury. We have a wide range of Prado and Fortuner for hire in Kenya. View our fleet page for more information.