2020 Toyota Harrier Hybrid: The Japanese Macan
Unlike many crossovers that lean into aggressive or off-road styling, the Harrier exudes elegance and composure. It’s a vehicle that fits as well in urban multi storied supershops as it does on the elevated expressway
The Toyota Harrier, long a favorite in Asian markets, underwent a major transformation with the launch of its fourth generation in 2020. Built on Toyota's advanced TNGA (GA-K) platform, the outgoing Harrier generation brought together elegant styling, premium interior party tricks and class leading hybrid technology. In doing so, it cemented itself as one of Toyota's most refined SUV that isn't born with a Lexus badge.
Originally a Japan only model, the Harrier evolved into a global product with the outgoing, fourth generation. Though still branded "Harrier" in many Asian markets, the very same car was introduced as the Toyota Venza in North America, bringing its Japan-only flair to a wider audience than ever before. This generation marked the Harrier's promotion from a regional nameplate into a truly global contender.
The 2020 Harrier's design language strikes a fine balance between bold and sleek. Its Porsche Cayenne coupe-like rear roofline, integrated LED lighting with the Modellista special bodykit all around, and a swanky front grille scream OEM Plus for the sophisticated enthusiast looking for a bigger family car that isn't boring. The rear end features a clean design with a full-width LED light bar, which reeks of Porsche design, which complements the special trunk spoiler courtesy of Modellista.
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Unlike many crossovers that lean into aggressive or off-road styling, the Harrier exudes elegance and composure. It's a vehicle that fits as well in urban multi-storied supermarkets as it does on the elevated expressway, with cruise control to boot, which was tried and tested by us on a special Dhaka-Mongla road trip with the very same featured unit.
Inside, the Harrier delivers, and even to an extent, surpasses European levels of luxury uncommon in its class. Materials are plush and tactile, with soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery (on higher trims), and polished trim details.
A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display brings the new Harrier to the twenty-first century, carrying over the 9-speaker JBL audio system from its predecessor, although only on the upper trims. However, since it is a Japanese model, don't expect anything beyond Bluetooth connectivity.
Panoramic electrochromic sunroof, which switches from clear to opaque, was once a feature touted by grand tourers made by McLaren. The Harrier gets it this time, and it undoubtedly enhances the ambience of the interior by a few folds. The digital rearview mirror, apart from looking fancy, helps mask the reduced visibility borne from the rear cabin. However, the greatest party trick, after the electric sunroof, is the ventilated seats, which work too well, hot and cold. Cabin insulation is also top tier.
Whether idling in Gulshan traffic or gliding down Mawa, the Harrier delivers a Lexus-like quietness, reinforcing its premium aspirations, which comes as no surprise since the 2020 Harrier is underpinned by Toyota's TNGA-K platform, also used in the RAV4, Camry, and Highlander. This gives it excellent ride quality, predictable handling, and a rigid chassis that feels composed at all speeds. Plus, the full EV-only mode is a nice addition for moments when you show up to your house well past bedtime, or if you're sneaking out for a late-night bubble tea or airport run.
Whether you know it as the Harrier or the Venza, this generation marks a significant step forward in Toyota's global evolution. It's a quiet overachiever, delivering luxury and practicality without shouting for attention, unless you opt for the Modellista package, which still manages to fly under the radar. The Modellista package is the way to go if the GR sport variants with their flashy red pin stripes sound tacky to you, the sophisticated OEM plus enthusiast.
Specification:
Engine: 2500cc 2AR-FXE hybrid
Transmission: CVT
Max Power: 176 bhp at 5,700 rpm
Max Torque: 221 Nm at 5,200 rpm
Price: Starts at Tk80 lakh (Approx)
