Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS (10 seater) MT (2015) vs Toyota Fortuner 2.4 G 4×2 MT (2018)

Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS (10 seater) MT (2015) vs Toyota Fortuner 2.4 G 4×2 MT (2018): which should you buy?

Both the 2015 Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS and the 2018 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 G 4×2 MT sit in a similar price band (₱1.56 million vs ₱1.59 million) but serve different needs. The Grand Starex is a 10‑seater van built on a body‑on‑frame chassis, offering a longer wheelbase (5,125 mm) and a larger passenger capacity, making it ideal for large families, shuttle services, or businesses that need to move many people or cargo at once. Its 2.5‑L turbo‑charged diesel delivers 170 PS and 392 Nm, giving it a modest power edge over the Fortuner, while the 5‑speed manual is adequate for highway cruising but may feel dated. Warranty is listed as “Unlimited/5‑years,” which is generous but the model is discontinued, so parts and service support could be limited. The Fortuner, on the other hand, is a 5‑door SUV with a 2.4‑L engine that produces 149 PS and a slightly higher torque peak of 400 Nm, paired with a 6‑speed manual for smoother gear changes. Its shorter length (4,795 mm) and SUV stance provide better maneuverability in city traffic and higher ground clearance for occasional off‑road use. With a standard 3‑year/100,000 km warranty and ongoing production, the Fortuner offers more reliable after‑sales support. Choose the Grand Starex if you need maximum seating and cargo volume and can tolerate discontinued‑model drawbacks; opt for the Fortuner if you prefer a newer, more versatile SUV with better warranty coverage and city‑friendly dimensions.