The Harrier nameplate has been linked to the Lexus RX and Rav4 in the past. Now, we can position the new model between the non-premium Rav4 crossover and the luxury Lexus NX. The latest generation debuted in 2020, and the 2023 Toyota Harrier will carry on the styling and interior layout. For now, there are no details about the facelift.
A plug-in hybrid variant is launched in some markets. Many fans are asking about the availability in the United States. It seems less likely now when the Venza is taking the position between Rav4 and Highlander. Anyway, there is a slot above the C-HR in the subcompact segment.
The 2023 Toyota Harrier is not the most powerful SUV in the family. It is not impressing owners with the specs sheet. However, the eye-catching look and the quality of the interior materials are enough for many buyers. Plus, the vehicle offers some advanced features, usually unavailable from its rivals. Handling and maneuvering compensate for lack of power. We expect improvements to the infotainment system. Also, the size and aggressive look lead to the lack of cargo space and headroom for occupants in the rear row.
Engines and Specs
The base configuration includes a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine with 170 horsepower. This four-cylinder unit won’t impress you, especially when there are four or five occupants. In urban streets, acceleration is acceptable, while on the highway, the SUV needs more time to speed up and overtake vehicles at higher speeds. Some experts believe that a 2.0-liter engine could be dropped and replaced with a 2.5-liter unit we find under the hood of the Rav4. In this case, the 2023 Toyota Harrier can gain extra power.
Another option is to deliver a performance-oriented SUV. A 2.4-l turbocharged mill serves Lexus NX and delivers 275 ponies, which is more than enough for such a small crossover.
2023 Toyota Harrier Hybrid
It is still unknown what kind of plug-in configuration the 2023 Toyota Harrier hybrid is going to use. But, thanks to its close relationship with the RAV4, many fans wish for the Prime system. It combines a petrol engine and electric batteries for a total output of 300 horsepower. Besides that, the setup is very efficient and returns superb gas mileage.
Anyway, the petrol engine is tuned to crack 177 hp. We’ll see what kind of electric motors the 2023 Harrier hybrid is going to use. One thing is sure – the PHEV variant uses the e-CVT transmission. Each axle will have a battery mounted on it, and AWD is standard for the hybrid SUV. This is the final piece that should make the Harrier more competitive.
2023 Toyota Harrier USA
The SUV is available only in a few markets. In most countries, Toyota fans can buy either C-HR or Rav4. The 2023 Toyota Harrier could fit between those two, or even above. The problem is – in the US, we already have the Venza SUV, which is one of the latest additions to the fleet. Toyota won’t drop it so soon. So, we’ll have to wait for the big lineup revisit and discontinuation of some vehicles to make space for the Harrier.
Good-Looking and Practical SUV
Initially, the Harrier was a close sibling to the Lexus RX. But, with the arrival of the third generation in 2013, the company replaced an old platform and made this SUV share the architecture with Rav4. Still, the number of markets where you can find the 2023 Toyota Harrier will be limited, while the Rav4 is famous worldwide.
This platform allows the Harrier to take the hybrid system from its sibling, and even the same PHEV is possible. Still, the SUV mixes the design solutions not only from Rav4, but also Lexus RX and even the new Venza. Whatsoever, it is a unique craft. The exterior is eye-catching and modern, so we don’t expect the restyling yet.
The interior is already one of the best in the class. Anyway, infotainment and safety updates are mandatory for each season. The 2023 Toyota Harrier offers some features that are hard to find on other vehicles. That makes it very special.
How to Buy a 2023 Toyota Harrier?
The 2023 Toyota Harrier can be found in Eastern Asia countries. The company produces the SUV in the homeland and then distributes it to the region. The latest version of the vehicle debuted in Singapore. Also, the PHEV version has been announced in Malaysia. Although some say it is the Venza SUV in the US market, we can see both in China. Furthermore, not every country offers the same trim levels, so there are differences there too.