Authorised Toyota dealerships are now accepting bookings for an updated Toyota Harrier which will soon be launched in Malaysia by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT). The current generation has been in the market since February 2021 and now gets an improved look and feel.
The new Harrier, with a Dynamic Force 2-litre engine, will be available in Luxury and Special Edition versions and a choice of 5 exterior colours – Slate Grey Metallic, Precious Black, Steel Blonde Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic and Platinum White Pearl – with the Special Edition having an exclusive Metallic Red finish. The on-the-road price without insurance will be from RM274,000.
While the Lexus RX is often regarded as the model that took SUVs into the premium segment, its sister model, the Toyota Harrier, also did the same. The only thing was that while the RX was marketed globally, the Harrier was primarily for the Japanese domestic market as the Lexus brand was not introduced there in 1997 when the RX was launched. However, in a number of places, including Malaysia, the Harrier was brought in by private importers and became very popular. It was never officially sold by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) until 2018 and with the popularity built up over 20 years, it met with strong response with initial shipments from Japan quickly sold out.
First three generations of the Harrier.
Today, the all-new fourth generation is officially launched with a price of RM249,706.50, excluding insurance for registration in Peninsular Malaysia. Only the 2.0 Luxury version is available, and customers can choose from 5 exterior colours (extra charge for White Pearl CS and Precious Black colours).
5-year warranty and aftersales support assured
According to UMWT, Malaysia is one of only two countries outside Japan where the new Harrier is sold officially with full warranty and aftersales support. The 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and assurance of parts and service are something that were not available from private importers which has been a strong selling point for the model. Furthermore, the company also provides owners with Toyota 24 Seven Road Assist for peace of mind.
Like other recent Toyota models, the new generation (incidentally, Lexus no longer shared the model since the previous generation and the Harrier is an independent development), is designed around Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) with the GA-K platform. TNGA’s versatility and flexibility allows it to be used for sedans like the Corolla and also SUVs like the RAV4 and Harrier, and even electrified models like the Prius. Besides creating a highly rigid body structure, the centre of gravity is also lower which enhances stability, handling, agility and ride comfort.
Wider but lower body
The overall size of the new Harrier is almost the same as before but the width has gained 20 mm while an extra 30 mm has been added to the wheelbase, both increases obviously benefitting interior space. Although there is still good ground clearance, as would be expected of a SUV, the overall height is now 30 mm lower.
The profile follows the same coupe-like form with a design concept Toyota calls ‘Dignified Elegance’. The front end has a sharper appearance with the eye-catching slim Bi-LED headlamps on either side. The L-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) also provide a strong and distinctive visual signature apart from enhancing daytime visibility. The rear has a clean design, defined by a thin LED strip for the full width, while twin exhaust pipes with oval baffles add a sporty touch.
‘Dignified Elegance’
The ‘Dignified Elegance’ concept is also adopted for the interior which gets a more premium feel. The occupants are welcomed with the Illuminated Entry System at the front door sills which is complemented by blue LED illumination inside. Premium materials used include thick black leather with woodgrain and silver ornamentation.
Any driver should be able to get the right and comfortable seating position with 12-way power adjustment for the seat, and for ease of getting in and out, the steering wheel automatically rises out of the way when the engine is switched off and the door opened.
The Automatic Dual-Zone Air Conditioning system has nanoeX technology which generates ions. First introduced with a previous generation of the Camry, nanoeX technology is known to deactivate viruses which is, of course, a very welcome feature in these times. It also keeps the air fresh and clean.
High-tech features
Besides the bright and clear Optitron instrument panel, the driver can also refer to the standard Head-Up Display (HUD) which is projected on the windscreen. Information show includes road speed, gear position, Driving Support System (directions, ACC display, LDA Display, Parking Sensor), audio mode with song titles, and warning alerts. That’s certainly a lot more than the early HUDs which showed only the speed.
The new Harrier has Panoramic Sunroof with electrochromatic glass which can alter the intensity of light passing through at the touch of a switch. The effect is like that of traditional paper windows found in Japan, enhancing comfort. The glass panels cover almost the entire length of the roof so a lot of light can be allowed in when sunlight conditions are not too harsh or at night.
The other high-tech feature is the new Digital Display Rear View Mirror. This shows live images from a wide-angle high-definition camera at the back to give greater night-driving clarity and eliminates glare from oncoming headlights.
Other standard features include a wireless charging pad, USB ports, Kick Sensor Powered Back Door, Electric Parking Brake, and an advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 8-inch capacitive touchscreen serves the infotainment system as well as shows the images from the rearview camera. Front and rear digital video cameras are also fitted while a Vehicle Telematics System can keep track of the vehicle’s location at all times.
One area that Toyota engineers paid special attention to was reduction of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). The new Harrier is claimed to be much quieter than before, thanks to the use of highly-efficient sound-absorbing glass on the windows. Sound-absorbing materials and their placement were optimized to lower NVH as well while sealing at the doors is improved to stop wind noise from seeping in.
New Dynamic Force engine
The Harrier is powered by Toyota’s latest Dynamic Force (M20A-FKS) 4-cylinder DOHC engine with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) that operates electronically for quicker response. As before, it is a 2-litre engine but now has improved output of 173 ps/203 Nm without turbocharging.
A Direct Shift Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Sequential Shiftmatic, allows the seamless shifting of gears. The driver can choose from three modes – ECO, Normal and Sport – to suit driving conditions or personal preference. ECO and Sport modes will prioritise fuel economy or acceleration, respectively, while the Normal mode offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
The TNGA chassis has front MacPherson struts with trailing wishbones at the rear, with optimized suspension geometry for balanced and predictable handling, while maintaining a high standard of ride comfort. The 18-inch alloy wheels at each corner are fitted with 225/60 tyres.
Toyota Safety Sense
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is the suite of integrated active systems that help the driver to avoid an accident, especially front collisions. Most of the latest Toyota models have TSS but the systems vary depending on the model. In the case of the new Harrier, there is a Pre-Crash System, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Adaptive Highbeam System. These use a camera and radar to scan the road ahead and identify vehicles and the data is analysed by a computer to determine if there is any danger of a collision. The Pre-Crash system has autonomous capability, meaning that it will activate the brakes if the driver does not take corrective action if a possible collision is detected.
Additionally, there’s a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The 4-wheel disc brake system is managed by ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, while Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control will help stabilize the vehicle on slippery surfaces.
Even with the best active safety systems, an accident can still occur and to minimize injuries, there are 7 SRS airbags around the cabin (one for the driver’s knees). These include curtain airbags which deploy downwards over the windows and besides providing cushioning, they also reduce the chance of ejection from the cabin during violent crashes. ISOFIX points are provided in the rear seats for compatible childseats which are now required by law.
23 years ago, Lexus introduced a new model which created a premium SUV class. It was known as the RX and in Japan, the same model was also sold as a Harrier under the Toyota brand (probably because Lexus was not sold in Japan yet). For the generations that followed, the Lexus and Toyota models were essentially similar until 2013 when they separated and the Harrier became an independent development.
The first two generations of the Harrier were similar to the Lexus RX but the most recent one (right) was an independent development.
The Harrier name and product had built up a strong reputation, even outside Japan and was a very popular parallel import in many countries, including Malaysia. Initially a JDM (Japan Domestic Market) model, its popularity eventually led to UMW Toyota Motor deciding to officially sell it in Malaysia from 2017.
Now comes a new Harrier, to be launched in Japan in June 2020, which is said to ‘go beyond the SUV category to offer new value as ‘a life-enriching partner’. Like its predecessors, it offers the same high quality in design and engineering.
The new Harrier has a front view that emphasizes sharp styling with fluid proportions through the continuity of lines flowing from the front upper grill through to the headlamps. The headlamps (with double-L DRLs) indicate individuality and technical advancement while enabling easy identification from a distance.
The narrowed coupe cabin has sportscar-like wheel housings extending from both sides of the body. Light from a thin, sharp line of tail lamps and stop lamps gives it an overwhelming sense of presence.
TNGA platform
The new Harrier uses the TNGA (GA-K) platform for its basic structure. This creates a highly rigid body with a low centre of gravity, enhancing both ride comfort and driving performance with a focus on driver sensitivity.
The suspension system uses MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone set-up at the rear. The front and rear suspension geometry has also been optimized to produce a well-balanced rigid body. Through thorough tuning and testing, Toyota engineers aimed to provide a ride that is both solid and graceful.
To improve steering convergence in the new Harrier, the shock absorbers have a smooth pedal stroke even in very low speed ranges are used. This enables the driver to feel the tyres gripping the road, achieving a high level of sensitivity.
The TNGA platform brings with it the latest all-new Dynamic Force Engines (2.5 litres and 2.0 litres) and Direct Shift-CVT. Customers can also choose the continually evolving Toyota Hybrid System (THS II), which expands the options available more than ever. Drivetrains are AWD or 2WD as well as E-Four with the Harrier Hybrid.
Toyota Safety Sense
The new Harrier comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which employs a pre-collision safety system that detects pedestrians during the day and at night, as well as cyclists during the day. TSS includes Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Parking Support Brakes (Stationary Objects) that helps reduce and/or mitigate damage from collisions during low-speed driving in parking lots, etc.
There is also a Digital Inner Mirror, used for the first time by Toyota, which enables recording of images to the front and rear of the vehicle while driving. The hybrid variant features a 100-volt (AC)/1,500-watt accessory power outlet. This not only allows the use of electrical products using the same electrical outlets found in the home, but also enables the SUV to be used as a power generator during blackouts and other times of emergency.
Ruggedness and individuality
The interior employs tactile synthetic leather to create the image of a natural-looking silhouette wrapped in thick leather, and bentwood-inspired wood tones and piping throughout, presenting a casual air of quality.
A panorama roof, used for the first time by Toyota, is equipped with electric shades and electro-chromatic windows. When the windows are dimmed, soft light penetrates the cabin. Low-contrast browns, greys, and blacks are used to create a calming atmosphere that is both chic and mature.
The centre console presents a wide and imposing impression of a horse’s saddle. It combines with an instrument panel set within the edges of the ‘saddle’ to present a generous ruggedness with an emphasis on individuality.
Pasaran SUV di Malaysia sedang mengalami sebuah ‘letupan’ dimana pelbagai tawaran dari beberapa syarikat pengeluar kenderaan dalam dan luar negara. Tugas untuk memilih kenderaan SUV yang paling sesuai untuk anda kini menjadi lebih sukar dan terdapat pelbagai pilihan menarik dan kami ingin berkongsi pengalaman bersama model yang kurang disebut iaitu Toyota Harrier 2.0T. (more…)
Since its launch in Malaysia in January this year, the Toyota Harrier has been in great demand. To date, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has delivered over 500 units to customers throughout Malaysia but with the number of outstanding orders still high, the waiting period has been longer. Now, with cooperation for Toyota Motor Corporation in increasing the supply of the Harrier from the production line in Japan, more stocks are available and customers can expect the waiting period to be shortened.
“We understand that our customers had to wait for a longer period to get delivery of their vehicle. The global demand for the Harrier has been great right from the start and for Malaysia, it surged further during the three months of tax break. The production in Japan is now able to supply more to suit the demand and we will have more vehicles available for delivery,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
Priced from RM243,000 (for Peninsular Malaysia registration with SST, without insurance), the latest Harrier is available in two variants – Premium and Luxury. Both variants use the latest generation 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine which features a twin scroll turbocharger, D-4ST direct fuel-injection and VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) for high output with high fuel efficiency as well.
The Harrier’s occupants are well protected with the Toyota Safety Sense Package, a comprehensive suite of Active Safety systems (available in a Toyota model in Malaysia for the first time). These include a Pre-Crash System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive High-Beam System.
Other safety systems included are Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Emergency Stop Signal, Electronic Parking Brake + Auto Brake Hold, and Parking Sensors with a Reverse Camera.
Four colour choices are available – Dark Blue Mica Metallic, White Pearl, Sparkling Black Pearl and Silver Metallic. The Harrier comes with 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage. For peace of mind, owners are assured of service and spare parts from all Toyota dealerships throughout Malaysia.
Toyota is also currently running the ‘All About the Drive Bonanza’ promotion until end of the year, those who book a new Harrier stand a chance to win a holiday package and will also be eligible to win a brand new Toyota Sienta compact MPV. More details are available at www.toyota.com.my.
Following the preview of the all-new Toyota Harrier at the Malaysia Auto Show 2017 last November, UMW Toyota Motor received many orders for the model which is being officially sold for the first time in Malaysia. The first units are now being delivered to customers who made bookings earlier and the new Harrier has prices starting from RM238,000 in Peninsular Malaysia.
“We are encouraged by the response to the introduction of the all-new Toyota Harrier in Malaysia. As the earlier generations were intended only for the Japanese domestic market, we were unable to sell them officially. However, Toyota Motor Corporation has now decided to offer it outside Japan and we are among the first countries to sell it officially,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
The Harrier comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage. This includes availability of genuine replacement parts for this latest generation.
The latest generation of the Harrier has a sharp aerodynamically-angled grille and incorporates a hawk emblem which emphasises the aggressive and elegant image. LEDs are used for the headlamps, Daytime Running Lights, cornering lamps, foglamps and rear combinations lamps. The front signals show the driver’s intention to turn left or right, or change lanes, by a sequential display of lights.
The fully imported Harrier 2.0T comes with a 2-litre turbocharged engine. Two versions are available – the Harrier 2.0T Premium and Harrier 2.0T Luxury which has additional equipment. It comes with 4 colour choices.
The Harrier has the 8AR-FTS petrol engine with a twin scroll turbocharger. This engine features D-4ST direct fuel-injection and a VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) system.
Owners of the new Harrier will be well protected by the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) Package, a suite of Active Safety systems available in a Toyota model in Malaysia for the first time. Pre-Crash System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive High-Beam System are part of the TSS Package.
Other safety systems include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Emergency Stop Signal (flashes the rear hazard warning lamps to warn following drivers in an emergency braking situation), Electronic Parking Brake + Auto Brake Hold, and Parking Sensors with Reverse Camera.
Additionally up to 7 SRS airbags protection and cushioning for the front occupants, supplemented by side airbags as well as curtain shield airbags which deploy over the side windows (front and rear) during a side collision. There is also a knee airbag below the steering column to protect the driver’s knees during a frontal collision.
For more information on the new Harrier, visit Toyota’s website toyota.com.my.
(All photos herein supplied by UMW Toyota Motor, as is)
