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Toyota Harrier 2.0 Premium (A) Review

Mazda CX-5 2.5 vs Toyota Harrier 2.0 vs Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0

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This is an old car model that is no longer for sale by the local distributor since Jan 2021.
Editor Review
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Mazda CX-5 2.5 vs Toyota Harrier 2.0 vs Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0
18 Sep 2017  |  Toyota Reviews
The freshly launched made-for-Singapore turbocharged Toyota Harrier is put to the test against strong segment rivals, the Mazda CX-5 and the Volkswagen Tiguan.
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Mazda CX-5
Sportiest and sharpest styling
Most fun to drive
Modern and plush interior
Toyota Harrier
Least attractive styling
Not much fun to drive
Is easy-to-drive and comfortable
Most fuel efficient at 12.3km/L
Volkswagen Tiguan
Appealing masculine business-like looks
Smoothest and punchiest powertrain
Feels the airiest to be in and offers the most boot space
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   Consumer Reviews of Toyota Harrier
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4.0
 
17 Consumer Reviews
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Comfort
4.0 Reliability
4.5
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Handling
3.5 Features
4.0
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Exterior Styling
4.0 Interior Design
3.5
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Value for money
3.5 Engine Performance
3.5

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yuenkm
Neutral Newbie
2 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 09-Jul-2020
Very competent SUV  Posted on 09 Jul 2020
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 3.0 Features 4.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 4.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
Having owned the Harrier Turbo for seven months, I feel that it is the right time to give a review of the car from a user's point of view. It is a very competent car - powerful, spacious, easy to handle and with a decently premium feel to it.

I was drawn to the car because of its 8AR-FTS engine, which it shares with the Lexus NX. It is a twin-scroll turbo, reputed to provide a smooth swell of pulling power without turbo lag. Having driven a turbo-charged SUV before the Harrier, I totally agree that turbo lag is the most irritating feeling to have when a car is picking up. This is totally absent in the Harrier - or at least you don't feel it at all. Under normal driving conditions, the normal driving mode is more than adequate to pull the 1.7 tonne SUV along. When push comes to shove, the Sports mode does a fantastic job in overtaking or merging into the expressway lanes.

The Harrier is big and comfortable. Japanese built quality all-around without the heavy teutonic feel of German marques. Piloting it is quite hassle free. The only complaint is that being a fairly tall SUV, it suffers from a little body roll when cornering. The steering is well-weighted and responsive. Driving controls are well-placed at where they should be. The cabin is well insulated from the hum of normal traffic.

Perhaps I am rather heavy with my right foot, or because I drive in almost 100% City conditions, average consumption is about 10 km/litre. Not too impressive when compared to its claimed consumption figures.

Maintenance and reliability wise - it's a Toyota, so I would expect it to last. What remains to be seen is its running cost when the 50k free servicing and 5 year warranty are up.

What I like
1. Engine power (twin-scroll turbo, hardly any turbo lag)
2. Comfort
3. Reliability
4. Brand trustworthiness

What I do not like
1. Short wheel-base for such a long car (it makes the car look less planted)
2. No blind spot warning on the wing mirrors
3. No USB chargers for rear passengers
4. No all round cameras for parking (I doubt the usefulness of the reflectors on the left wing mirror - should take a leaf from the SK Forester!)


Franc
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 06-Jul-2020
Feels more premium than the price tag!  Posted on 05 Jul 2020
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
I bought this car in Jan 2019, after previously having driven a 2012 Touareg. Took a test drive with the missus, and has never looked back. Price point was impossible to beat in its class, given the 2.0 turbo engine that is basically a slightly detuned Lexus turbo engine (227bhp vs. 234 bhp), and its interior quietness.

I was taken aback by the quietness in the interior. This quietness level is very similar to a Lexus, and surprisingly beats VW and BMW that I have previously owned. You almost cant hear any road noise from the outside. Very impressive!

The handling is not the best, but the power is more than sufficient for Singapore traffic or the occasional Malaysian highways. It picks up really quickly, and feels like any typical European SUVs. The ride quality is also really good. It handles bumps like a big cushy sofa.

I have decided to write this review as I see there are a lot of unfair review in this forum. Having owned the Harrier, and test driven the TNGA Rav4, I can attest that the Rav4 is no match in terms of power, ride quality and handling to the Harrier. Just because somebody decided to save money to buy the cheaper but newer Rav4, doesnt give you the right to chime in subjective view to patronize the Harrier by having driven it for 2 mins.

My objective conclusion after 18 mths of ownership is the Harrier is a less sporty version of the Lexus NX, but it offers a bigger second row space and trunks, while at the same time saves you $30k. I love how roomy it is, how reliable it has been for me (zero issue so far), the acceleration, and how clean the design is. This car exterior design grows on you overtime - at least it did to me.

What I like
The ride quietness.
The turbo engine pick-up.
The comfortable suspension.
The simple yet luxurious interior.
The huge panoramic sunroof.
Overall Toyota reliability - having come from European SUV, this is a BIG plus.

What I do not like
Handling around the corner Could be improved.
Toyota Safety Sense that offers lane monitoring system can be confusing and dangerous for new drivers. It basically steers your wheel automatically when you go off lane markers, but does not take into account road and traffic condition (such as when you are trying to avoid a car that changes lane suddenly in front of you).


Wasteland
Neutral Newbie
16 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 13-Jul-2019
Little brother of Lexus NX  Posted on 08 Sep 2019
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Comfort 3.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 4.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
Same engine and platform as Lexus NX, but at a lower price.

The difference does not stop there, however this is not a comparison report, so let's get to the good and bad about the new harrier turbo.

Finally a turbo car from toyota a different shift in mindset at last. The suv looks pretty good looking, if it's mod with after market body kit would look nice.

Interior is pretty standepard Toyota laid out, nothing fancy, typical head unit. It could do better on the interior if it wants to win the competition.

2 liter engine is good enough for the size and weight, but don't exepct a rocket pocket. On the roads it can hold its own when it needs to over take.

Comes with safety sensing features, which is common on days with Honda also.

What I do t like is the shift stick which seems seems too tall, should make it lower and sportier.

What I like
- turbo engine
- nice looking car with potential for body kit
- potential for tuning since it's a turbo car
- family size car, yet can be sporty if you need it to be
- Toyota safety featrues
- another option for Lexus NX, alhtougtthe seats are not as comfortable as the NX

What I do not like
- stability can be better
- shift stick can be lower, I find the height weird and looks ugly
- dashboard and head unit dated looks, should be more innovative, look at the core he competition


LYC
LYC
3rd Gear
9 reviews
297 points
212 forum posts Joined on 11-Jan-2012
Comparing the Harrier against the New Rav4  Posted on 10 Feb 2019
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Comfort 4.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 3.0 Features 2.0
Exterior Styling 3.0 Interior Design 2.0
Value for money 2.0 Engine Performance 3.0
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Review
Test drove the Harrier back to back against the new Rav4. Although the engine is more powerful then the 2.0NA Rav4, it lacks the punch from the 2.0T engine. On paper, the harrier looks impressive, but when driving, the car does not really matches up. Both the interior and exterior starts to look dated when comparing to the other newer models in the market. Infotainment system is also starting to look old.

However, if you are looking for a reliable workhorse that will last the entire COE period without the need for major repairs, this car is definitely suitable for you.

What I like
The huge sunroof
Toyota's overall reliability
Toyota's safety suite comes as standard on all models

What I do not like
Pricing when compared to similar models
Both interior and exterior is starting to look dated
The drive is not as impressive as what is reflected on the papers


Blueangel71
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
5 forum posts Joined on 15-Mar-2009
A Decent SUV  Posted on 29 Jan 2019
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Comfort 3.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 4.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 4.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
I've started to get bored with saloon car after driving it for the last 20 years. So was hunting for a SUV or MPV for a change and also to give more space for my children who are growing.

I personally prefer Mercedes GLC 250 which is more stylish but I do not wish to spend more than $200k for a car again. Also, although conti cars are better in terms of performance but they are so unreliable after driving 2 different German brands. So back to basic, Japanese car (although I did consider Korean)

Was contemplating between Subaru Forester and Toyota Harrier (although I test drove Honda Odyssey but wasn't impressed by its price $170k+ and its features). Also, consider Skoda Kodiaq but the mark up for profit was about 34% And unsure about its resale value in the future. Also tried Kia Sorrento but it was powered by 2.2l diesel. I still could not get used to the rattle sound of diesel engine although it is pleasant and smooth during my test drive. Chose Harrier over Forrester because Turbo version for Forrester was no longer available and the mark up was something over 30% (info. From Sgcarmart) which I thought was high. Since Agent is now carrying this model and with Turbo and having drove my friend's P.I. Harrier for a week, I thought it was decent for me to consider it. Also, mark up over cost at the time of buying (Apr 18) was 13% Which I believe is more reasonable compared with other brands.

So having drove for about 9 months, I would say it is a decent ride.

What I like
- "Hold" button which I can release my foot away from brake pedal during idling time
- decent fuel consumption for a 2 litre car
- "Turbo" but acceleration is not as good as conti car as my past 2 vehicles performed better
- Engine is not noisy

What I do not like
- Bumpy over uneven roads or running over some manhole covers. Suspension is poor
- Infotainment unit is outdated. Screen too small and software especially GPS is poor
- Paintwork is poor, edges start to peel off which is bad.
- "Auto off" - a feature meant to save fuel but not good for our city driving where our travel is always in start-stop situation. Very bad for car but fortunately it can be overwritten
- Fuel tank is too small for a 2 litre car. I fill up one full tank is about 50-55 litre. I would expect 60-70 litre tank so end up need to fill up quite frequently although fuel consumption is reasonable.


Gabdat
4th Gear
23 reviews
555 points
253 forum posts Joined on 15-Mar-2009
Nice car to drive  Posted on 04 Nov 2018
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Comfort 2.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 2.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 2.0 Interior Design 2.0
Value for money 2.0 Engine Performance 2.0
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Review
When down to test this car.Indeed it was well worth the time.Only downside was that the SE that served us was..Well..Slightly unprofessional.

What I like
-panoramic sunroof
-smooth engine and gear box
-spacious
-Toyota Safety Sense
-powerful air-con
-muscular design
-reliability

What I do not like
-body roll
-seats not as comfortable as i thought
-no driver memory seats
-key feels flimsy
-SE.i have to admit it was not the best service that i got.can be more friendlier and informative
-gear knob on the showroom set was stolen.yes,no gear knob


Skyze
1st Gear
2 reviews
63 points
36 forum posts Joined on 11-Oct-2010
Third Car I have owned, and the best yet!  Posted on 29 Oct 2018
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 5.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 4.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
Having driven a Suzuki Swift (hatchback), Chevrolet Cruze (Sedan) and now the Harrier (SUV), it was a natural upgrade due to my burgeoning family size which required more space.

The Harrier was a car that was highly recommended by a colleague who had driven 3 different editions previously and he had nothing but good things to say about the car. As such, I decided to test drive the car and fell in love immediately.

Might be a personal thing, but I preferred the Harrier looks over Mazda CX5 and even Mercedes GLC as it looks sleeker and less cumbersome.

The Turbo (227bhp) is powerful enough to let you overtake and accelerate with ease, and you won't even hear the engine roar as you speed past the other vehicles on the road. Mind you, I am a family man and appreciate the silence and ease of acceleration while my kids play and rest in the back seat. If you are looking for a car with stronger acceleration and more bite, this might not be the car for you.

Based on a normal driving pattern, I am usually able to hit 100km/hr with revs at approx 1500 to 1800. This usually takes me about 10 secs from standstill (Normal mode, I haven't tried Sports mode yet).

Eco mode, on the other hand, is meant to save fuel and you can feel the significant lag in pick up speed. I had only used this mode once when I was in no real hurry to get to my destination. Otherwise, 99% Of the time, Normal mode will suffice.

Steering is light as compared to my previous "Continental" Ride (Cruze) but in a way, I am starting to appreciate being able to turn the wheel with ease (sometimes with one hand).

There are more and more Harriers on the roads and there is a good reason why. I simply love this car for all that it is worth

What I like
Turbo engine at 227bhp
Low price point (when compared to other similar high powered cars)
Extremely quiet engine (Eco and Normal mode)
Japanese made
Rear reclining seats for the comfort of my family
Sun roof which my wife loves
Electric tail gate which my son loves to play with.
High view, feels like you are in more control of the road and your drive
Toyota Safety Sense which increases road safety as you drive
Almost flat rear flooring (not much of transmission bump on the centre floor) which makes for increased comfort in seating if you regularly fetch full load of passengers (my whole family, for example)

What I do not like
Not able to change interior colour (standard black as the car is Japan made and no customisation is allowed)
LED sequential running lights only for the front. Will be best if the sequential lights are also appllied for the rear.
Standard Toyota paint protection coating is as good as non-existent (still had to find my regular detailer to do a proper job)


Jeff0704
Neutral Newbie
2 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 21-Jun-2008
Best Car I've Owned  Posted on 02 Oct 2018
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
Driven the Harrier 2.0T for the past 6 months.

Comfort wise, it beats a lot of more expensive cars hands down.

Interior space wise, it is top of its class.

Drive wise, it is good. This car is heavy due to lots of safety features. The pick up is not bad. During turning, do note it is a SUV.

What I like
Comfort. Space. Looks.

What I do not like
None at this moment.


suvdriveps
Neutral Newbie
3 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 03-Feb-2018
The Toyota reliability is a selling point but….  Posted on 03 Feb 2018
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Comfort 3.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 2.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 2.0 Interior Design 2.0
Value for money 2.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
Almost a buy but the quality feels tin-like and expensive for a Toyota. The interior is the not a selling point, it does try to be premium but feels a bit boring and drab. It feels like no change from the Toyota SUVs of the mid 2000s. Another issue is that its very hard to find any global agency crash test ratings which puts a question mark on safety as its now the same platform as the RAV4 and away from the Lexus platform. The engine package however is pretty decent but the exterior body doesn't seem to match the short wheelbase, which creates unbalanced handling. The body width is also pretty narrow for the height which compromise stability. So Toyota maybe reliable but the body structure/wheel base combo is almost deal breaker.

What I like
-Sequential signal lights
-2.0L turbo engine
-Large sunroof
-Toyota reliability

What I do not like
-Dreary dull interior which looks outdated
-Leather / suede seats not appealing
-Unbalanced short and narrow wheelbase vs a long and high body structure
-No global saftey / crash test ratings
-Exterior design is also outdated
-Doors seem light and thin
-Pricing for this package, might as well get the cheaper Rav4 as they are quite similar. Lacks premium features for premium pricing.


Fintan
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 09-Nov-2017
Why The Harrier Turbo  Posted on 05 Dec 2017
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
Why the Harrier Turbo, well simply put, its the Turbo! The new Harrier that has just become available this year in Singapore from Borneo Motors the Main agent has a different engine than all the parallel imported ones. All the PI Harriers are 149 BHP, the Turbo version, which is a totally different engine derived from the Lexus NX is 227 BHP. The Harrier is a big and long car, it needs the extra horses, and the new Harrier Turbo is just right. For the last few years in Singapore I drove a Golf GTI, so I like to have a bit of power, and the change to the Harrier Turbo was great, ok, its a bit softer, especially on the corners, but its quiet, very quiet, and super comfortable. It feels very solid and reassuring to drive, and I know there are many more expensive "More luxurious" SUV's on the market with bigger engines and more HP, but this doesn't need any more HP and feels really high quality for a lot less than a Range Rover Velar, Porsche Macan or a Jaguar F Pace. Even if I had the money, I would find it hard to justify the extra dollars for the prestige of the "European Badge" And I'm European!!! I also feel that the the Euro SUV's have become too computerized, and some of the driving positions feel like cockpits rather than car driving positions, amazingly the Toyota Harrier has lots of tech, but still feels like a car not a video game, well done Toyota!! This acr is quick enough, comfortable enough and quiet enough that when I'm at the lights between the Porsche and the Range Rover, it make me feel good that I didn't spend another $100-400K on my car for not much extra. I really don't need four wheel drive in Singapore, ever. I really don't need 400 BHP in Singapore ever. If you are in the market for a premium SUV, make sure you test drive a Harrier Turbo, its the thinking persons SUV.

What I like
Comfort, Style, Power, and anticipated long term reliability.

What I do not like
Not much, they have this car pretty right.


Sci90179
Neutral Newbie
13 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 27-Jun-2012
Poor service by Borneo motor  Posted on 07 Nov 2017
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Comfort 4.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 3.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 4.0
Value for money 3.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
Car is so popular that you will have to wait for it. Sales person was extremely pushy and make not attempt to sell me the features of the car but keep “Insulting” My current car and telling me my car trade in value is only a few thousands above the scrap value even though it’S not due for scrap until 2019. I am driving a Mercedes Benz E class. Oh by the way even if you drive a Maserati the value of the trade in is also near its scrap value according to this salesperson. A great car but a pity was marketed by a really terrible salesperson.


LancerJay
Clutched
1 reviews
14 points
83 forum posts Joined on 18-Aug-2005
Turbo Lag is Myth Busted!  Posted on 13 Oct 2017
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 5.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
Went down to Leng Kee road yesterday to test drive the harrier Turbo, was mentally expecting the harrier to be laggy with the turbo, but to my surprise, the car accelerates like a violent beast. Without a warning i bitted 100km without realising it!

Don't get me wrong, my current ride is a IS250 (08) and the harrier feels more powerful and responsive than my IS250, maybe my driving pattern allows me to have full control over the full range of turbo on my feet. I felt that this harrier can deliver the power while sipping petrol. Its rare indeed.

The interior reminds me of the time when i first saw the 7 series - very classy. The moonroof is pleasantly huge and beautiful.

What I like
-Luxury interior feel, handsome outlook
-Violent yet controlled turbo beast like acceleration.
-11-13 Km/L fuel economy based on users
-Toyota never break down
-Big Boot!
-Very comfy seats at the front, feels like sitting on a chair, while having the most commanding view of the front.
-Very comfy seats at the back, 4 way recline settings, while having the most enjoyable view of the sky Via the large moonroof
-Great handing, i always feels the tires at the ground even i am sitting high up at the seats.

What I do not like
No other brands are as reliable as the Toyota, making secondary choices simply not a option.
I recall going broke for my BMW repairs before, maybe that is why i always wonder why should i pay a higher priced car, just to pay a higher price repair later. As if taking a gun and shoot myself in the foot (twice). there again, just my 2 cents.


Silver6756
Neutral Newbie
2 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 15-Mar-2009
Absolutely no brainier at this price range  Posted on 07 Sep 2017
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 5.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
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Review
My original target was new the XC60, when the prerelease ads of Harrier Turbo showed up - things changed quickly.

At this price point, the interior, exterior finishing, safety features, Lexus breed engine, make the overall package absolutely convincing.

What I like
Everything

What I do not like
Nothing at this price point


alphard96
6th Gear
2 reviews
3,035 points
1008 forum posts Joined on 14-Jun-2014
Harrier turbo will be the Best selling SUV?  Posted on 02 Sep 2017
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Comfort 4.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 4.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 4.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 4.0
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Review
In my opinion, a safe and good buy for a premium SUV - definitely better than the non facelift/non turbo model.

What I like
1) Bright adaptive front LED headlights with useful cornering lights - one of the brightest
2) Powerful instantaneous smooth acceleration, with reasonable FC.
3) Userfriendly toyota safety sense - really works, safer.
4) Bomb proof reliability expected (hopefully).
5) Relatively spacious interior compare to its competitor/within the same price bracket.
6) Interior LED lights - white and bright enough
7) convenient Auto Parking Brake.
8) Silence, at cruising speed - as good as some entry level lexus model

What I do not like
1) GPS issues a) v poor reception b) heading direction not fully straight ahead (?setting)
2) Radio - not really digital
3) Memory seat - not linked to side mirrors (surprised!)
4) Rear signal lights normal bulb, should be at least LED, or best sequential too
5) Rear fog lights not available (option not install)
6) Moonroof to fully closed need to press twice!
7) Rear doors - No safety lights, no keyless lock/unlock (only front doors)
8) No reverse tilt for both side mirrors
9) absent of BSM/RTA - blind spot monitor for side mirrors
10) The pearl white code 070 is the usual standard toyota, good/nice but perhaps should offer some alternative/choice eg white flakes or lexus purplish white
11) perhaps ottoman seat for front passenger seat (like in alphard?)
12) or pehaps factory fitted side window blinds for rear passengers (manual good enough, no need electric).


Fudanjx
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
3 points
6 forum posts Joined on 06-May-2009
Engine does not match to its spec  Posted on 31 Aug 2017
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Comfort 5.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 4.0 Features 4.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 5.0
Value for money 3.0 Engine Performance 3.0
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Review
Just test drive the Harrier Turbo last Sunday. Compared to FXT and Lexus RX turbo, all at 2.0T category, you will feel the harrier turbo engine does not has the turbo power. The sales man claim it uses the same model 2.0T turbo engine as Lexus, but with only slightly lower output. However, when you behind the wheel, you can not feel the turbo push. It feel like a normal SUV with around 160HP output level.

What I like
Interior, exterior, nice and luxury feel.
Luxury version has the ventilated seats, very useful in SG climate. Although I did not have the chance to test it.

What I do not like
Engine performance.
Price, BM is unwilling to give discount to make the deal sweeter, even when I and my friend plan to buy 2 harriers together.

Toyota Harrier
4 stars - based on 17 reviews