2021 Toyota Harrier Review

Detailed Review

The Toyota Harrier is a mid-size Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that has been in production from 1998 to the present. It is positioned as a more luxurious alternative to the RAV4 range

In its first and second generations, the Harrier was almost identical to the Lexus RX. However, in the third generation, the Toyota Harrier was launched as a separate model line based on a platform independent of the RX.

The Toyota Harrier is currently in its fourth generation, the XU80, which was launched in 2020 and is still in production today.

The 2021 Toyota Harrier is available with two engine options: the 2.0L M20A-FKS I4 engine and the 2487cc A25A-FXS I4 hybrid engine. The 2.0-litre engine is mated to a Toyota K CVT, while the hybrid engine is mated to an eCVT.

2021 Toyota Harrier Grades

• 2021 Toyota Harrier S– This is the base grade, which comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, full-width LED headlights and taillights, privacy glass for the rear windows, electrically folding side mirrors with integrated turn indicators, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a USB charging port, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and Smart Entry.
• 2021 Toyota Harrier G– This level adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels with a dark grey metallic finish, adaptive high-beam headlights, LED headlights with auto leveling, digital interior mirror with front and rear recording, electric seat adjustment, and electric tailgate opening and closing. There is also a G” Leather Pack” option, which includes genuine leather upholstery and an electrically adjustable front passenger seat.

• 2021 Toyota Harrier Z– This is the top trim level, which comes with 19-inch alloy wheels with a super chrome metallic finish, a T-Connect SD navigation system, a 12.3-inch display that works in conjunction with the JBL Premium Surround system, color head-up display. The Z grade is characterized by the availability of the ‘Leather package’ with genuine leather upholstery, comfortable heated seats, seat ventilation, a 4-way power passenger seat, steering and seat position memory, and a heated steering wheel.

2021 Toyota Harrier Interior, Legroom & Space

Step inside the 2021 Harrier and you will find a highly refined cabin that offers a premium driving experience wherever you go. The 2021 Harrier’s center console is wide and well laid out, giving the impression of a horse’s saddle.

The dashboard has a generous width and wraps around the occupants to provide a sense of security and comfort. The instrument panel has a larger and sharper central display, making it easier than ever to read relevant information.

Adding to the Toyota Harrier’s classy ambiance is the stylish panoramic sunroof, which uses electrochromic glass to cover the front seats and extend overhead for rear-seat passengers.

The interior of the 2021 Harrier uses low-contrast browns, greys, and blacks. This calming atmosphere gives the interior a feel that is both chic and mature.

The front seats are comfortable with ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for both driver and front passenger. The second-row seats are equally comfortable, with plenty of legroom for taller passengers. The rear floor is flat and has no center tunnel and hence the middle passenger has good leg and thigh space.

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2021 Toyota Harrier Cabin Storage

There are several storage compartments in the cabin, useful for storing items such as smartphones, drinks, goggles, handbags, etc. In the first row, there are 4 cup holders, door panel storage, a glove box, and the center console. In the second row, there are 4 cupholders and front seat jacket pockets.

2021 Toyota Harrier Boot Space

There are 396 liters of boot space in the 2021 Toyota Harrier, which is slightly smaller than most mid-size SUVs that have at least 500 liters of boot space. However, the 2021 Harrier has a powered tailgate with hands-free operation, which makes it easier to get things into the Harrier.

2021 Toyota Harrier Exterior

The exterior design of the 2021 Harrier has been tweaked a little to give it a more striking, elegant appearance that draws the attention of onlookers.

The front end of the 2021 Harrier emphasizes its sharp and fearless styling through the continuity of lines from the upper front grille to the headlamps. The distinctive headlamps make the 2021 Harrier instantly recognizable from a distance, while the downward-sloping trapezoidal lower intake creates an almost ‘beak-like’ front fascia. The former Harrier hawk emblem has been replaced by the ubiquitous Toyota badge.

The side profile of the 2021 Harrier offers a dynamically changing body cross-section, creating a rich expressiveness and a powerful sense of movement. There is a pronounced character line that rises gradually from the front wheel arches to the top of the slim, wraparound tail lights.

The rear end of the 2021 Harrier is distinctive with full-width tail lights and stop lamps, giving it an overwhelming sense of presence. Dual exhausts give the 2021 Toyota Harrier a sportier look.

A total of seven color options are available for the 2021 Harrier, including Precious Black Pearl, Steel Blonde Metallic, Precious Black, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Slate Grey Metallic, and Dark Blue Metallic.

2021 Toyota Harrier Safety Features: The 2021 Harrier is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense which incorporates a pre-collision safety system, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist. Other safety features include a parking Support Brake, Anti-lock Braking System, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and SRS airbags.

2021 Toyota Harrier Fuel Consumption

• 2021 Toyota Harrier 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 15.7 Km/l on average
• 2021 Toyota Harrier 2.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 20.4 Km/l on average

2021 Toyota Harrier Acceleration

• 2021 Toyota Harrier 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.8 secs
• 2021 Toyota Harrier 2.5 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.5 secs

2021 Toyota Harrier Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2021 Toyota Harrier has a ground clearance of 7.4 inches.

2021 Toyota Harrier Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

2021 Toyota Harrier Spare Parts and Availability

The Harrier shares many parts with other Toyotas such as the RAV4, Crown, Vellfire, and the Prado. The parts are well-priced and available in major towns across the country. Electronic components such as batteries for the Hybrid are expensive and not readily available in the market.

2021 Toyota Harrier Stability And Handling

When it comes to driving impressions, the 2021 Harrier has a comfortable and smooth ride. It is built on the GA-K variant of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which also underpins models such as the Camry, RAV4, and Lexus ES.

It is fitted with MacPherson struts at the front and an optimized double wishbone suspension at the rear, providing a well-balanced ride.

The 2021 Harrier uses shock absorbers to improve steering convergence from the moment you set off and then at motorway speeds, ensuring a smooth pedal stroke even at very low speeds, allowing the driver to feel the tires grip the road.

It uses an electric power steering system that responds quickly to steering wheel movements and provides light steering, giving the driver more confidence on the road. The 2021 Harrier also features Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which helps control braking to prevent understeering on bends.

The 2021 Harrier comes with a standard 2.0-litre Dynamic Force engine with Direct Shift CVT. This powertrain is suitable for everyday driving and offers excellent fuel economy. On the other hand, hybrid models feature the Toyota Hybrid System (THS II), which uses a 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine.

2021 Toyota Harrier Reliability

The Toyota Harrier is regarded as one of the most reliable cars in the Toyota line up with the majority of owners reporting many years of use without any major issues. The Harrier is built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform which is designed to improve the reliability of vehicles.

The Harrier’s 2.0L engine and 2.5L hybrid engine have also been established as dependable with minimal issues reported.

We recommend that you ensure your Harrier is serviced regularly to help reduce some of these problems. If you own a Toyota Harrier, it’s a good idea to read the owner’s Manual to get to know more about your SUV.

Resale Value: Good

2021 Toyota Harrier Competitors: Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Murano, Volkswagen Tuareg, Mazda CX5, Lexus NX, Mercedes Benz GLA, and Honda CRV.

What we like about the 2021 Toyota Harrier

• Fuel efficiency
• Comfortable cabin
• Reliability
• Nice looks
What we don’t like

• No USB chargers for rear passengers
• No blind spot warning on the wing mirrors

Conclusion

If you are shopping for a reliable mid-sized SUV with great fuel economy, reliability, and elegance, the Toyota Harrier is a good pick. It is arguably a Lexus for less money. Its hybrid option achieves excellent fuel economy, making it a better choice for buyers who prioritize efficiency.

Where to Buy the 2021 Toyota Harrier in Kenya

If you are looking to either import or buy the Toyota Harrier locally at a favorable price, we can help you with this process. Over the years, we have developed a network of trusted dealers both in Kenya and Japan who supply us with exceptional cars. Simply call us or send us a message through +254 722 469360 or email us at [email protected] and we’ll get you the right car at the right price.