Like the standard Fortuner, the Legender also portrays typical ladder-on-frame ride quality with that robust and ‘flatten anything in its path’ feel. A high ground clearance and 18-inch wheels help its case further along with its double-wishbone front suspension and the four-link solid-axle rear. Though it’s adept at taking bad roads, its slow speed ride is still not the most relaxing with continuous side-to-side movement. All the imperfections on the road can also be felt inside with that jiggle over small undulations. No there’s no suspension noise, but it could have done with a little plusher ride. That said, this slight firm tuning helps over the highways as it cuts down the bounce over undulations.

And despite riding high, it does score well in straight-line stability, feels planted and composed at high speeds. Sadly, it doesn’t score well when it comes to subjecting the SUV to some corners. The body roll is immense for occupants to not complain while you chuck it into a turn, or go around a bend aggressively. Thankfully, the fat tyres do provide a good grip to stick onto the road, and brakes have a good bite to inspire confidence on panic braking. Still, its heavy steering is another deterrent even at slow speeds as more than three turns lock-to-lock demand more driver effort. This becomes an arduous task while parking this huge SUV or even making a U-turn in a narrow lane.

Now the layout, design, and function remain the same as the Fortuner. So, a spacious and ergonomic cabin with comfortable front and second-row seating continues with a usable third row as well. There’s adequate headroom and knee-room, while the seats are nice and firm with good under-thigh support, meaning prolonged hours over long distances will be relaxed. Your handy stuff will be easily accommodated in the two glove-boxes and many storage places like in the centre console, door bins, dashboard, etc. And, there are plenty of cup and bottle holders too. Now, the dark interior colour is still not so liberating in terms of roominess, yet the new black and red upholstery adds a little spunk. Then, the dark wooden theme is tastefully done too with the use of piano black and silver inserts.

The Legender has its fair share of equipment from the Fortuner, and in fact, betters it with features such as the quad-LED headlamps, sequential indicators, wireless smartphone charging, powered tailgate, and many more including ventilated front seats. And though I appreciate Toyota for now adding the latter feature, I didn’t like the headlamp adjuster-like controls for the same. Another thing to note is that the 12V power outlet on the centre console for rear passengers has been replaced by two USB ports. Apart from the usual features like automatic climate control, cruise control, steering mounted controls with telephony, electronically adjustable front seats and all, there’s connect car tech to add to the convenience and ambient lighting to liven up the interior feel.

A de-chromed look in the front and back, new quad-lamps with a different fascia, striking new 18-inch alloys, and different upholstery inside helps the Legender differentiate itself from the standard Fortuner. Yet, limited colour options, absence of new-age features, no 4×4 system or even a manual version, and still at a price of Rs 45 lakh on-road might make one re-think his/her choices. However, it’s still backed by Toyota’s outstanding after-sales service, low service costs, prolonged warranty coverage, long-term reliability, and even good resale value, adding to a hassle-free ownership experience. So, all of this with a little exclusivity thanks to this Legender version, prospective buyers might not hesitate in paying that premium.