Lexus Harrier

Lexus Harrier is popular in Japan  

Lexus Harrier – Luxury Meets Crossover Practicality

Overview

The Lexus Harrier is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that blends premium comfort with stylish design and everyday practicality.
Originally launched in 1997 under the Toyota brand in Japan, it was also sold internationally as the Lexus RX. In its home market, the Harrier name became a symbol of urban sophistication — a vehicle that wasn’t just for off-road capability but also for on-road elegance, comfort, and refinement.
Over the years, the Harrier has evolved into a standalone Lexus model in Japan and other Asian markets, offering hybrid options, advanced tech, and a smooth, quiet ride.

History & Generations

1st Generation (XU10; 1997–2003)

• Market Role: Luxury crossover for Japan, twin to the Lexus RX 300 overseas.

• Engines:

  • 2.2L I4 (5S-FE) – ~140 hp

  • 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE) – ~220 hp

• Key Features:

  • Car-like unibody platform for better on-road comfort.

  • Full-time AWD or FWD.

  • Early adoption of luxury amenities in an SUV package.

2nd Generation (XU30; 2003–2013 in Japan)

• Continued sharing design with Lexus RX (RX 330 / RX 350).

• Engines:

  • 2.4L I4 (2AZ-FE)

  • 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)

  • 3.3L V6 Hybrid (RX 400h / Harrier Hybrid).

• Advances:

  • Better ride quality, more safety features, improved cabin materials.

  • Introduction of hybrid powertrain for higher efficiency.

3rd Generation (XU60; 2013–2020)

• Fully separated from RX in design — became its own unique model.

• Platform: Toyota New MC platform (shared with RAV4).

• Engines:

  • 2.0L I4 (8AR-FTS turbo) – ~228 hp

  • 2.5L hybrid (2AR-FXE) – ~197 hp combined.

• Highlights:

  • Sleeker, coupe-like profile.

  • Focus on on-road comfort over ruggedness.

  • Advanced safety systems and premium interior tech.

4th Generation (XU80; 2020–Present)

• Shares platform with Toyota RAV4 (TNGA-K), but with Lexus-level design and finish.

• Engines (Japan/Asia):

  • 2.0L Dynamic Force I4 (M20A-FKS) – 171 hp

  • 2.5L Hybrid (A25A-FXS) – ~218 hp combined.

• Features:

  • Panoramic roof, large touchscreen, digital rearview mirror.

  • Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking.

  • Premium cabin materials and quiet ride tuning.

Key Specifications (4th Gen, Japan Spec)

Feature	Value
Length	~4,740 mm
Width	~1,855 mm
Height	~1,660 mm
Wheelbase	2,690 mm
Drivetrain	FWD / AWD
Engines	2.0L petrol / 2.5L hybrid
Transmission	CVT (hybrid) / Direct Shift-CVT (petrol)
Power	171–218 hp
Fuel Economy	~15–22 km/L

Why It’s Popular

• Urban Luxury – More refined and elegant than most crossovers in its size class.

• Hybrid Efficiency – Strong fuel economy without sacrificing comfort.

• Quiet Ride – Lexus tuning prioritizes cabin silence and smoothness.

• High Tech – Comes with the latest Lexus infotainment and driver assistance features.

Fun Fact

The Harrier’s soaring bird emblem (used in earlier generations) was unique to this model in Japan, symbolizing freedom, grace, and speed. Later models switched to the Lexus “L” badge for brand consistency.