First photos reveal that the fourth-generation Toyota Harrier is a sleek successor to its popular predecessor.
TOKYO, JAPAN – Toyota has released the first photos and specifications of the fourth generation Toyota Harrier. As the pictures reveal, the all-new model cuts a sleeker, upmarket look that could easily pass for a model from the company’s luxury division, Lexus.
The rear end design continues a similar impression with slim tail lamps that are not a million miles away from that of the Jaguar F-Pace SUV. Elsewhere on that shapely exterior, there doesn’t seem to be a straight line in sight.
Naturally, Japan is the first market to get the all-new Toyota Harrier while Singapore will have to wait until end of the year barring any further delays from the Circuit Breaker.
Early generations of the Harrier were focused on the Japanese Domestic Market. However, demand for grey imports in Singapore eventually proved so strong that the current third-generation of this SUV was eventually officially sold. Since then, it has established itself as a firm favourite in the local line-up.
2.5-litre hybrid or 2.0-litre petrol models
It remains to be seen if the Harrier will continue to be available with the popular 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. Presently, only two powertrains are offered in the new Harrier and neither feature a turbocharger.
Instead, the only versions announced are either powered by either 2.5-litre hybrid electric or a 2.0-litre petrol engines. Both versions are also optionally available with all-wheel drive.
Just like the latest Camry and RAV4, the Harrier will also be built on the TNGA (GA-K) platform which, amongst numerous advances, is said to feature a lower centre of gravity for better stability and handling.
Internal affairs
The Harrier features a completely redesigned interior. The centre console is apparently inspired by a horse saddle. Elsewhere in the cabin, expect a complimentary theme of leather and bentwood-inspired materials that impart a “casual air of quality”.
One of the highlights of the new Harrier is electro-chromatic tinting for its panoramic sunroof and windows. For the first time in a Toyota, the occupants will be able to darken the tint of the side windows. According to the Japanese automaker, “Dimming the windows fosters the feeling of quality as soft light penetrates the cabin”. It remains to be seen however, if this feature will be seen on the cars sold in Singapore.
Another interesting feature offered in the Harriers sold in Japan is the Digital Inner Mirror. Effectively a discrete in-car camera, this item is capable of recording images in the front and rear of the vehicle while driving.
A 12.3-inch TFT infotainment touchscreen takes centre stage on the dashboard and can be optionally paired with a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system.
Harrier history
Since the original Harrier was launched in 1997, the car has carved a unique subsegment of the Sport Utility Market that is centered around outright urban living over any semblance of off-road intent.
Four generations on, the latest Harrier is set to continue this tradition with as one of the most stylish SUVs to go on sale.
2020 Toyota Harrier need to know
Engine | Hybrid
Displacement: 2,487cc, 4-cylinder direct injection
Electric motor: 120kW [front] |40kW [rear]
Power: 218hp [fwd] | 222hp [4wd] – system max. output
Torque: 221Nm @ 3,600-5,200rpm
Transmission: Electric Continuously Variable Transmission
Weight [kg]: 1,710 [hybrid fwd] |1,770 [hybrid 4wd]
Engine | Petrol
Displacement: 1,986cc, 4-cylinder direct injection
Power: 171hp @ 6,600rpm
Torque: 207Nm @ 4,800rpm
Transmission: Direct Shift-Continuously Variable Transmission
Weight [kg]: 1,620 [petrol fwd] | 1,680 [petrol 4wd]
Length/Width/Height [mm]: 4,740 / 1,855 / 1,660
Wheelbase [mm]: 2,690
Ground clearance [mm]: 190 [hybrid] | 195 [petrol]
Suspension [Front / Rear]: MacPherson struts, coil spring / Double wishbone, coil springs
Tyre size: 225/55 R19 [front and rear]