![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 01]()
Since the arrival of the 2021 Toyota Harrier (codenamed XU80) in Malaysia, some have lamented the downgrade in terms of performance compared to the previous generation. Now though, there have been speculations of a turbocharged engine being offered at some point in the future.
![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 02]()
Globally, there are only 2 powertrain options for the 2021 Toyota Harrier. The one offered in Malaysia is powered by a 2.0-litre Dynamic Force M20A-FKS naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, making 173 PS and 203 Nm of torque. Other markets get a 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain on top of it.
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![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 01]()
We’ve explained why the turbocharged engine was dropped, and the gist of it is related to emissions and fuel economy because downsized turbocharged engines aren’t as efficient in the real world.
Also read: No more 231 PS turbocharged engine for all-new 2021 Toyota Harrier, this is why
![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 02]()
Following the speculations, there is a possibility that the facelift – which is expected to arrive in 2023 – will bring about the 2.4-litre turbocharged engine from the all-new 2022 Lexus NX. The engine makes 279 PS and 430 Nm of torque and is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Also read: TNGA-based all-new 2022 Lexus NX debuts; new 2.4L turbo, brand's first-ever PHEV
![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 03]()
This is purely a speculation, but considering the previous generation Toyota Harrier (XU60) shared the 2.0-litre 8AR-FTS turbocharged engine with the previous generation Lexus NX, this speculation isn’t too far-fetched. After all, it only makes sense to increase the scale of a new engine to optimize its cost.
![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 04]()
But don’t get your hopes up too much. Should it happen in the future, bear in mind that the turbocharged Harrier may not find its way to our shores. Being a fully-imported model, the higher displacement engine will incur higher import and excise tax.
Also read: Malaysians pay over RM 10 billion in car taxes every year. How did we end up like this?
![2021 Toyota Harrier (XU80) could receive 279 PS/430 Nm 2.4L turbo from all-new Lexus NX 05]()
The current 2.0-litre naturally aspirated variant is priced at RM 249,706 (valid until 31 December 2021). With a turbocharger and larger engine, who knows how much it’ll be priced.
Like the Mazda 6 2.5 Turbo, the turbocharged Harrier will be predominantly focused on the North American market. Hence we believe that even if this turns out to be true, it's unlikely to be offered in Malaysia.
Also read: Dead on arrival, Lexus just killed the 2022 Lexus NX’s future in Malaysia
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