Just when SUVs have almost entirely captured the automobile market — some of the most popular SUVs are all set to receive an upgrade. Toyota will launch the latest model of Harrier in June this year. But that’s not all. Honda is not staying behind in this race. The latest model of its flagship Honda CR-V will be launched this year.
Honda claims CR-V will enter the 5th gen with its latest model set to be released in Fall this year, while Toyota Harrier is only entering the 4th gen with its upcoming model.
Honda CR-V being a refined, practical and well-designed model is one of the brand’s top-selling products. The 2020 CR-V is offered in four trim levels: the LX, EX, EX-L and Touring
Exterior
Toyota Harrier:
It has slim LED headlights on the front and on the rear side giving it a premium look. On side profile towards the rear, it has a much sloppier roof-line and gives coupe-like styling.
Read more: Toyota Harrier 2020 to hit markets in June
Moreover, just like the RAV4, Toyota Harrier has a Hybrid version as well. It features an A25A-FXS, a 2.5L four-cylinder 178HP engine with a total system output of 215HP. This version has an E-CVT system.
However, if Toyota Harrier 2020 comes to the U.S., we should expect to see the hybrid drivetrain offered along with a more powerful turbo-four or V-6 option, provided the huge competition that is existent in the market.
Honda CR-V: It has a fresh, boldface that gives it a sporty look — it has a sleek front end. Adding to the sporty look is its 19″ alloy wheels and sculpted lines, enhancing the overall impression of the SUV.
It’s equipped with pretty stylish fog lamps which not only enhances the visibility, but also gives it a better front look. One thing is for sure: Bad weather won’t be troubling you during your journey.
Moreover, the all-new CR-V features sculpted wheel arches, eye-catching chrome accents and a stylish rear spoiler.
On the rear you’ll find LED taillights and a sleekly designed spoiler, along with a duel chrome exhaust finisher to make a style statement.
Get quick acceleration and fantastic gas mileage in the all-new 2020 #HondaCRV #Hybrid! https://t.co/bGsR3cTqVH pic.twitter.com/9i4Fi3yBBB
— Honda Windward (@HondaWindward) April 20, 2020
Engine
Toyota Harrier: It is powered by an M20A-FKS, 2.0L 4 cylinder naturally aspirated engine with 169HP & 207NM of torque. It has a direct shift CVT, which has a physical first gear as launch gear. For Harrier, Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) is standard, while All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is optional.
Honda CR-V: It has a 1.5-litre turbo engine across the range. For the LX trim specifically, the new engine replaces the 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated plant of the 2019 models. Complete with direct injection, the turbo bumps the new CR-V’s horsepower to 190 and torque to 179 lb-ft. Front-wheel drive is standard, although all-wheel drive is available on every model.
Read more: Toyota Corolla hatchback all set to be released
Interior
Toyota Harrier 2020: In the interior, premium quality materials can be found including a centrally placed 12.3″ large touch screen floating infotainment system to play your favourite songs and movies on the go.
Harrier comes with a panoramic roof with electric shade, which is now found in almost all the SUVs. Harrier while breaking the norms of most SUVs is also equipped with electrochromic glass for the sunroof. This is vital for ensuring a comfortable environment inside the vehicle as it dims the passage of sun rays.
Just like any other SUV, Harrier is a 2 row, five-seat vehicle. It’s perfect for a mid-sized family. As far as safety is concerned, it comes with a Toyota Pre-Sense active safety feature which includes pedestrian detection. There is also an optional digital rearview mirror, which can also record front and rear clips, in case of any emergencies.
Honda CR-V:Â It comes with heated front seats, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, and a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Its Base LX model is equipped with a 5.0-inch display, but all other models get a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. There is an option of getting a navigation system (GPS) installed, as is a nine-speaker audio system.
There is however a major shortcoming in the entertainment system: Absence of an auxiliary input.
Overall, the interior looks like that of an upscale vehicle; a tasteful balance of faux-wood accents, chromed plastic, and brushed-satin finishes creates a very cool and spacious environment.
Speaking of cargo volume and luggage space, the all-new Honda CR-V leads from the front. Fold the back seat flat, and the Honda offers best-in-class luggage space.
Toyota Harrier 2020 all set to be releasedhttps://t.co/gJereMLHxS
— GVS (@GVS_News) April 21, 2020
Suspension
Toyota Harrier: It offers a pretty decent suspension system, ideal for unpaved roads. It has MacPherson struts at the front and a double-wishbone setup at the rear for all variants including the hybrid version.
The braking system features Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which basically takes input from Electric Power Steering System (EPS) / Electronic stability control (ESC) along with vehicle speed, and sends programmed information to brakes. This helps in controlling the vehicle while negotiating sharp turns.
Honda CR-V: It features a MacPherson front strut and multi-link rear suspension with low-friction dampers. Tubular front and solid rear stabilizer bars promote better handling as does the dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering.
On the safety side, CR-V comes with a suite of driver-assistance features to help prevent collisions from happening in the first place. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Read more: 2021 Audi A3 sedan all set to hit markets
Price and availability
The all-new Toyota Harrier is expected to be priced at 34,800 USD, £27,965 Pound Sterling and Rs. 5,694,355 PKR, for the standard variant, while the top of the line version of this vehicle will cost 39,800 USD, £31,980 UK Pounds and Rs. 6,512,509 PKR.
Toyota Harrier is entering its fourth generation ahead of a Japanese debut in June this year. Based on the success of this vehicle, Toyota might decide to introduce it in other countries, with some additional features.
Honda CR-V: Its price ranges from $25,050/ 20,262£/ 4,100,842 PKR – $34,750/ 28109£/ 5,688,793 PKR . It’s available at Honda dealership centres for booking.
We would love to hear your personal experiences with these SUVs. Dropdown your comments please!