2020 Toyota Harrier: Elegant and efficient

In Bangladesh, the ultimate dream first car is arguably the Toyota Premio. Once one has achieved that however, it is usually a Toyota Harrier that is the next big ambition.

The Toyota Harrier, ever since its first generation started appearing in the early 2000s, has become a staple option for car dealerships to offer. With an upscaled interior than any Allion or Premio, a raised seating position and improved ground clearance, the Harrier was the only crossover from Toyota in its class (other than the Kluger) available back then, before hundreds of different crossover models were started to be offered in the market.

In 2020, Toyota unveiled the fourth generation of Harrier, offering a completely new styling, larger dimensions and vastly improved features. Now that the model is years old, a 'new-shape' Harrier is now more affordable than ever before. Hence, for this issue of Wheels, we took out a 2020 Toyota Harrier to find out how much the new model improved over the old one.

While the rear does look sharp, the placement of the indicator all the way at the bottom is weird. PHOTO: MD Abu Saeed Miad

At first glance, the new Harrier is larger and sleeker from every angle one'll look at it. The sleek, coupe-like silhouette remains, but it now boasts a bold front grille and sharp LED headlights which can unmistakably make it stand out amongst many luxury crossovers of its size.

Targeting the luxury sports market, the Harrier is a mix of sharp lines and truculent chrome flares everywhere. The single LED tail light unit, extending from one end to the other, however, looks too thin for the overall rear. Things get particularly weird with the indicators and reverse lights, placed where there would normally be reflectors. 

Although our test unit did stand out with the optional Modellista Kit upgrade, it came with larger 20-inch alloy rims, body kits all around and more chrome bits.

The Z Leather package offers a two tone interior with a plethora of premium features. PHOTO: MD Abu Saeed Miad

Getting inside, a Harrier was all about ensuring a premium feel and this new one takes it up a notch. The seats carry over the memory, powered and heated seats, but are now more bolstered and comfortable. The increased dimension adds to the spaciousness which is further elevated by the unique panoramic sunroof. The first of its kind in a Harrier, this panoramic sunroof can electronically switch between opaque and transparent with the tap of a button. While it may sound like a gimmick, regular users of panoramic sunroof will find it handy, especially during summer.

This isn't the only new trick the Harrier received. It also comes with a digital center mirror that works as an in-built dashcam for both the front and rear. Other features include a larger 12.3-inch infotainment paired to Harrier's iconic 9-speaker JBL tuned sound system and Toyota Safety Sense.

Under the hood, the Harrier is most commonly available with either a 2500cc hybrid engine powering all four wheels or a 2000cc petrol engine that powers the front wheels. While the former is the more common one due to its hybrid powertrain that lowers its final price, the non-hybrid option is more future proof in the polluted city streets.

The panoramic sunroof can electronically switch between opaque and transparent with the tap of a button. PHOTO: MD Abu Saeed Miad

Paired to a continuously variable transmission, our non-hybrid 2000cc unit produces maximum power and torque figures of 169 bhp at 6,600 rpm and 203 Nm at 4,400 rpm respectively. On paper, it is short of both power and torque compared to the hybrid variant. In reality however, it is more than adequate as a 5-seater city hauler when.

Acceleration is nearly instant, and is on par with regular traffic vehicles. In city driving, the engine feels lively enough at lower speeds, thanks to its tuned throttle response and the CVT's ability to simulate gear changes under acceleration. Push the engine hard however, and its limitations become evident.

In terms of control and comfort however, it takes over, that too by miles. Toyota has tuned the chassis for comfort, allowing the SUV to glide over potholes and rough patches with ease. The braking system is well equipped for the vehicle's size.

The new M20A-FKS engine is more powerful while still retaining the same displacement. PHOTO: MD Abu Saeed Miad

The engine itself is impressively quiet during normal operation, only making itself heard under heavy acceleration. Paired with excellent cabin insulation, the Harrier delivers a serene driving experience.

Overall, the Toyota Harrier has come a long way ever since its first generation. For users of the previous Harrier, this one is an upgrade in almost every segment. And finally for new buyers, there's no better Toyota crossover under Tk 1 Crore, that's catered this much towards passenger luxury.

Specifications:

Engine: 1987cc M20A-FKS

Transmission: CVT with triptonic

Max Power: 169 bhp at 6,600 rpm

Max Torque: 203 Nm from 4,400 rpm

Price starts at:

2000cc Non-hybrid: Tk80 Lakh (Approx.)

2500cc Hybrid: Tk74 Lakh (Approx.)