Autoblog

Toyota announced today that it is recalling 54,217 vehicles sold in Japan that could possibly catch fire if parked and left running. The recall affects two models, the Harrier SUV and Windom sedan (known as the Lexus RX and ES, respecitvely, in North America). Apparently there's a possible defect in each vehicle's computer control system that could cause it to malfunction and catch fire. Two vehicles have reportedly went up in flames on account of this defect and 26 complaints about the vehicles have been filed. The units being recalled were produced between December 1997 and November 2000, and Toyota insists none were exported for sale.

The Big T has been blasted in the media this year for performing a higher than normal number of recalls yet still maintaining an image of impeccable quality throughout its brands. One wonders at what point that image will begin to fade if the recalls continue. Toyota's announcement today further justifies Ford's decision yesterday to delay the delivery of Edge and MKX crossovers to dealers until problems with the manufacturing process could be ironed out. It's always best to deal with issues in the factory rather than shifting them over to the owner's driveway.

[Source: International Herald Tribune, Associated Press]
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If you've ever wondered what a Zagato-bodied Lexus RX might look like, you now have an answer.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Toyota's Toyopet dealerships, the automaker has worked with the legendary design studio to produce the Harrier Zagato for the Japanese market. It was unveiled today at the 2006 Tokyo Auto Gallery, a tuner/specialty car show now in its 6th year. Only 250 examples will be built.

A pure appearance package, the Zagato modifications take the sleek and sedate Harrier and give it the look of a rally car. The front fascia is overhauled with an open-look grille, new bumper, and a lip spoiler that houses round foglights. The changes continue as you walk around the car. Bulging, ventilated fender flares and lower body cladding carry the aggressive new profile to the rear, where you find revised bumper and a deeper roof spoiler. Gold five-spoke Zagato Design wheels complete the package.

The interior is left intact save for some new aluminum trim.

Based on on the Harrier 240G "L" (2.4L 4 cyl) and 350G "L" (3.5L V6), the Harrier Zagato can be ordered with either 2WD or 4WD powertrains for both engines. Prices, depending on drivetrain selection, range from ¥4,935,000 ($42,000 USD) to ¥5,712,000 ($48,800 USD). Colors are red mica metallic or white pearl crystal.

(Additional photos after the jump)

[Source: Toyota Japan]