Buying This Toyota Harrier Was My Dream, But It Came With One Compromise

Owning a Toyota Harrier had been on my bucket list for years. Every time I saw one on the roads, I admired its commanding presence, premium styling, and reputation for reliability. 

So, when an opportunity came up in December 2023 to buy a 2012 Toyota Harrier from a friend for Ksh1.8 million, I didn't think twice.

Nearly two years later, I can confidently say it has lived up to many of my expectations. However, like any car, it has taught me that dream cars also come with compromises.

Unlike many impulse purchases, buying the Harrier was both emotional and practical.

It was one of those SUVs I always hoped I'd own one day. But beyond fulfilling my dream, it also ticked all the practical boxes I was looking for.

I wanted an SUV with high ground clearance that could comfortably handle our road. I also wanted something spacious enough for my family and comfortable enough for long-distance travel.

Also read: I Bought a 2016 Toyota Auris for Ksh1.4M, Here's Why I'd Recommend It 

Why I Bought It Locally

Some people prefer importing vehicles directly from Japan, but that wasn't an option for me.

By the time I was buying the vehicle in December 2023, the 2012 Harrier had already exceeded the eight-year import age limit. The only realistic option was to buy a locally available unit.

Fortunately, I found one that had been well maintained by a friend, giving me confidence about its history and condition.

Today, the Harrier serves as my everyday vehicle. During the week, it comfortably handles my daily commute around the city. On weekends, it transforms into the family car, taking us for shopping, family activities, and leisure trips outside Nairobi.

One thing I appreciate most is the cabin comfort. The interior feels premium, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. Even after several hours behind the wheel, the seats remain comfortable, making long drives much less tiring than they would be in a smaller car.

Also Read: Why I Will Never Sell My 2002 Toyota Mark II

Fuel Consumption

Under the bonnet sits Toyota's 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. In Nairobi's stop-and-go traffic, I average around 10 kilometres per litre. Once I get onto the highway, that figure improves significantly to about 14 kilometres per litre.

It's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, but it's a compromise I've accepted in exchange for the comfort and practicality it offers.

Maintenance

I take the car for a minor service every 5,000 kilometres, mainly covering engine oil and filter changes. Depending on where I service it, the bill usually ranges between Ksh6,000 and Ksh9,000.

Like most SUVs, suspension components eventually wear out, especially after years of driving on rough roads. When major work is required, costs typically range between Ksh25,000 and Ksh45,000.

Fortunately, sourcing parts has never been difficult.

Also Read: I Regret Buying My 2006 Nissan X-Trail

Brake pads, filters, suspension links, and most mechanical components are readily available at auto shops across Nairobi.

However, as much as I enjoy owning the Harrier, there are a few things I'd change if I could.

The biggest disappointment is the four-speed automatic gearbox. It feels outdated and sluggish, especially when overtaking on highways.

Fuel consumption is another compromise.

The interior also has one weakness that many Harrier owners will understand. Over time, prolonged exposure to the hot Kenyan sun causes parts of the dashboard to develop a sticky texture, and eventually, cracks may begin to appear.