Unveiling the Obscure: The Unique Toyota Harrier Zagato – Japan’s Unseen Lexus RX Twin

The Unusual Collaboration: The 2006 Toyota Harrier Zagato

In the automotive industry, collaborative efforts often lead to innovative and exciting results. However, not all partnerships yield universally acclaimed outcomes. One such example is the union between Toyota, a leading Japanese automaker, and Zagato, an esteemed Italian design house. Together, they introduced the 2006 Toyota Harrier Zagato, an iteration that sparked mixed reactions.

The Background of the Toyota Harrier

Before diving into the specifics of the Harrier Zagato, it’s essential to understand the Toyota Harrier’s history. Known internationally as the Lexus RX, the Harrier was primarily marketed in Japan. By the mid-2000s, it had already established itself as a staple in the luxury SUV segment. In 2006, as Toyopet, one of Toyota’s retail networks, celebrated its 50th anniversary, the company desired to offer something unique to its customers. This ambition led Toyota to commission Zagato for a special edition of the Harrier.

The Creation of the Harrier Zagato

Zagato’s legacy includes crafting bespoke models for high-end brands like Aston Martin, Ferrari, and Lamborghini. Their designs often exude elegance and uniformity. However, the Harrier Zagato’s aesthetics deviated from this norm. The front-end sported an open grille devoid of any emblem, complemented by a prominent bumper and a lower lip spoiler featuring fog lights.

On the sides, the Harrier Zagato was fitted with fender flares and additional body cladding. The rear boasted a roof spoiler and a modified bumper. The overall design was rounded off with gold five-spoke wheels, adding a distinctive touch. Internally, the vehicle retained its standard look, save for a bit of aluminum trim. The changes were purely cosmetic, with no enhancements to the engine’s performance. Buyers could choose between a 2.4-liter I4 or a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Color options were limited to black, white, and red.

Limited Production and Market Impact

Despite its foundation on a widely produced model, the Harrier Zagato remained an exclusive vehicle, with only 250 units produced. They were reasonably priced between $42,000 and $48,000. Over the years, some of these rare cars have surfaced in resale markets at surprisingly low prices. One such example was sold in the U.K. for just under $5000, highlighting its affordability in the resale market.

Conclusion

The 2006 Toyota Harrier Zagato stands as a testament to the unpredictable outcomes of cross-cultural collaborations in the automotive world. While it may not have achieved the iconic status of some Zagato designs, it remains a unique piece of automotive history. Despite the mixed reviews, it serves as a fascinating experiment that combined Toyota’s reliability with Zagato’s design flair. As we look back, it’s clear that the Harrier Zagato epitomizes a rare moment in automotive history, an endeavor that is unlikely to be replicated by mainstream automakers in today’s market. For more automotive insights and updates, stay tuned to automotive.fyi.