The Toyota Harrier III (XU60, facelift 2017) represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s mid-size luxury crossover SUV, a vehicle primarily tailored for the Japanese domestic market (JDM) and other Asian regions. While its lineage shares a historical connection with the Lexus RX, the Harrier carved out its own distinct identity as a more accessible, yet still premium, offering within Toyota’s extensive lineup. The XU60 generation, launched in 2013, received a notable facelift in 2017, bringing refreshed styling, enhanced technology, and updated powertrains, including the potent 2.0-liter turbocharged variant detailed here. Produced from 2017 to 2020, this particular model, equipped with the 2.0 T (231 Hp) ECT engine, aimed to deliver a compelling blend of performance, sophistication, and everyday usability to discerning buyers who sought SUV practicality without compromising on a refined driving experience.
Toyota Harrier III (XU60): A Premium Crossover
The Toyota Harrier, known for its blend of style and practicality, occupies a unique space in the Asian automotive market. Unlike many globally marketed SUVs, the Harrier was primarily designed for and sold in Japan and surrounding regions. It serves as a more attainable alternative to the Lexus RX, offering a similar level of refinement and features under the trusted Toyota brand. The XU60 generation, and particularly the 2017 facelift, represents a refinement of this formula, focusing on enhanced performance and a more contemporary aesthetic.
Engine & Performance: The 8AR-FTS Turbocharged Powertrain
The heart of the Toyota Harrier III (XU60, facelift 2017) 2.0 T model is Toyota’s 8AR-FTS engine, a 2.0-liter (1998 cm³ or 121.93 cu. in.) inline-four gasoline engine. This powerplant utilizes direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and an intercooler to maximize efficiency and power output. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow and combustion. This sophisticated design delivers 231 horsepower between 5200 and 5600 rpm, and a substantial 258.15 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) of torque from a low 1650 rpm to 4000 rpm. This broad torque band provides responsive acceleration and effortless cruising.
The engine is mounted transversely in the front of the vehicle, contributing to a balanced weight distribution. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a smooth and reliable 6-speed Super ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission) automatic gearbox. This transmission is designed for seamless shifts, optimizing both performance and fuel economy. The combined fuel consumption is rated at an impressive 30.5 US mpg (7.7 l/100 km), demonstrating the efficiency gains achieved through turbocharging and advanced transmission technology. The vehicle boasts a weight-to-power ratio of 7.2 kg/Hp (139.2 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 4.7 kg/Nm (210.8 Nm/tonne), resulting in a lively and engaging driving experience.
Design & Features: A Blend of Elegance and Utility
The Toyota Harrier III (XU60, facelift 2017) showcases a distinctive design that blends elegance with athleticism. As a 5-door SUV, it offers a commanding road presence combined with a sleek, coupe-like profile. The 2017 facelift brought subtle but impactful changes, including updated front and rear fascias, revised lighting signatures, and new wheel designs, enhancing its contemporary appeal. The vehicle’s dimensions – 186.02 inches (4725 mm) in length, 72.24 inches (1835 mm) in width, and 66.54 inches (1690 mm) in height – position it squarely in the mid-size SUV category, providing ample interior space without being unwieldy in urban environments.
Inside, the Harrier offers a comfortable and upscale environment for five occupants. The cabin is characterized by high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a user-friendly layout. Standard features include advanced infotainment systems, automatic climate control, and a range of convenience options. Safety is a priority, with standard features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced control during emergency braking. The suspension system, featuring an independent MacPherson strut setup at the front and a double wishbone at the rear, is tuned to provide a smooth ride and confident handling. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring strong stopping power. The vehicle rides on either 235/55 R18 or 235/50 R19 tires, paired with stylish alloy wheels. An electric power steering system with a rack and pinion setup provides precise and effortless steering, with a minimum turning circle of 36.75 feet (11.2 meters).
Technical Specifications: Toyota Harrier III (XU60, Facelift 2017) 2.0 T (231 Hp) ECT
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Harrier |
| Generation | Harrier III (XU60, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 T (231 Hp) ECT |
| Start of Production | 2017 |
| End of Production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specifications | |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp (139.2 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm (210.8 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specifications | |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 5200-5600 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 115.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) @ 1650-4000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8AR-FTS |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cm³ (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Direct injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1660-1700 kg (3659.67 – 3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight (Gross Vehicle Weight) | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 275-315 kg (606.27 – 694.46 lbs.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4725 mm (186.02 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Height | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2660 mm (104.72 in.) |
| Front Track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specifications | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears & Type of Gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Super ECT |
| Front Suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear Suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires Size | 235/55 R18 100H; 235/50 R19 99V |
| Wheel Rims Size | 7.5J x 18 ET45; 8J x 19 ET40 |
Legacy & Market Impact of the Toyota Harrier III (XU60)
The Toyota Harrier has consistently held a unique and respected position within its primary markets, particularly in Japan and other parts of Asia. The XU60 generation, especially after its 2017 facelift, reinforced the Harrier’s reputation as a sophisticated and reliable premium crossover. Unlike its Lexus RX counterpart, which is globally marketed as a luxury vehicle, the Harrier offered a slightly more understated yet equally refined package under the Toyota badge, appealing to buyers who valued brand familiarity and strong resale values without needing the full luxury brand caché.
In its segment, the Toyota Harrier III (XU60, facelift 2017) faced competition from a range of domestic and international rivals. In Japan, it contended with other popular mid-size SUVs such as the Nissan Murano, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5, as well as premium offerings like the Subaru Forester and the Lexus RX. Its distinct styling, comfortable ride, and the reliability inherent to the Toyota brand allowed it to maintain a strong market share. The introduction of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in the facelifted model was a strategic move, offering a more powerful and engaging driving experience compared to the naturally aspirated options, catering to consumers seeking higher performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. While not officially sold in the United States or many European markets under the Harrier name, its design language and engineering principles often foreshadowed trends seen in global Toyota and Lexus products. The Harrier remains a symbol of aspirational yet practical motoring in its home region, bridging the gap between mainstream and luxury, and the 2017 facelift with its potent 2.0 T engine represented a high point in its evolution.
