Bold design. Smooth performance. The Toyota Harrier is elegance in motion

In December 1997, Toyota launched the first generation of the Toyota Harrier in the Japanese market, making it exclusive to the Toyopet Store dealership. The base models are front-wheel drive and are equipped with a 2163cc 5S-FE I4 engine, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Toyota Harrier has had three generations: the first generation from 1997 to 2003, the second from 2003 to 2013, and the current third generation, which has been in production since 2013. From March 1998 to July 2013, the Harrier was marketed in export markets under the name Lexus RX. The Harrier is named after the eastern marsh harrier, a bird of prey that is prevalent in Hokkaidō and northern Honshū, known as "chuki" in Japanese. A stylized emblem of this bird is featured on the vehicle's grille.

Interior

The Luxury variant of the Harrier features an upscale cabin design, including brushed aluminum trim and leather upholstery accented by red stitching. Positioned as a premium vehicle within the Toyota lineup, it meets high expectations for luxury with amenities such as ventilated front seats and memory settings for the driver's seat, which adjusts in tandem with the steering wheel when the engine is turned off.

All expected features of a luxury automobile are included, such as comfortable leather seats, power-adjustable seating, power windows, locks, and a sunroof. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a range of safety and convenience features, including multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, vehicle skid control, a multi-information display, GPS navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a rearview camera.

Features

One distinguishing feature of the Toyota Harrier in the luxury crossover SUV segment is its exceptional handling of Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH). Drivers commonly interpret NVH as "No Vibration or Harshness," indicating the effectiveness of Toyota engineers in minimizing these aspects. The Harrier incorporates more insulation and vibration dampers than typical SUVs, resulting in one of the quietest rides available, especially when compared to similar vehicles. Additionally, the Harrier's unique raptor badge on the front grille sets it apart from standard Toyota designs. In this facelift version, the emblematic Harrier bird appears alongside flying birds under the clear grille cover, enhancing its visual appeal and recognition.

The official Harrier features several updated settings, including redesigned bi-LED headlamps with an Adaptive High Beam system, sequential turn signals, and vertical daytime running light strips integrated into the bumper. Additional enhancements consist of cornering lamps, LED fog lamps, and a hexagonal design for the lower grille. The tail lamp clusters are also LED, connected by a red strip trim across the tailgate.

Engine

Toyota Harrier offers a range of 4 and 6-cylinder engines, with either a 5 or 6-speed automatic transmission, varying by model year. The Harrier Hybrid features a 2493cc I4 gasoline engine combined with the Kumiawara electric drive system, achieving a fuel efficiency of 21.8 km/l. All third-generation hybrid models are identified by the Japan model code DAA-AVU65W and come in four trim levels: Grand, Elegance, Premium, and Premium Advanced. While AWD models may experience slight reductions in fuel economy, the all-wheel-drive system enhances safety and stability on challenging terrains such as mud or gravel.

Finally

The Toyota Harrier stands as a refined and reliable SUV that blends luxury, performance, and practicality. By integrating proven technologies from other Toyota models and focusing on premium design and comfort, it delivers a well-balanced driving experience—proving that sophistication and dependability can go hand in hand. You can now check the Toyota Harrier stock list for available models and purchase parts here.