Toyota’s new C-HR made its world debut at the 2016 Geneva motor show.
Giving the Japanese manufacturer a new presence in the crossover market, the C-HR is designed to stand out both within the Toyota line-up and in its segment. Toyota says the new C-HR represents President and CEO Akio Toyoda’s determination to allow greater stylistic freedom for eye-catching design.
As a mid-sized crossover the new model features a slim and sleek coupe-like cabin profile combined with a low body yet raised ground clearance similar to an SUV. At the front a slender upper grille flows into the aggressive wing extremities of the headlamp clusters and wraps fully around the front corners of the vehicle. The blacked out rocker panel towards the front and rear wheel, along with the shoulder axis that runs through to the front and rear emphasise the fast-looking “lift-up” feel of the thin body. The C-HR’s coupe-like styling is further enhanced by disguised rear door handles integrated within the C pillar, sweeping roofline into a large skeletal frame rear spoiler.
The new model is powered by a hybrid powertrain using a 1.8-litre hybrid system, which returns ‘a level of efficiency previously unseen in the crossover segment’ according to Toyota. With CO2 emissions of less than 90 g/km the hybrid powertrain is more efficient and lighter while offering 122 HP.
Alternatively, the Toyota C-HR is also available with the new 115 HP/85 kW 1.2 litre turbo engine. This will have a choice of 6-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable automatic Transmission system, which is developed to meet expectations in response and direct feel for European customers familiar with manual and automatic gearboxes. The CVT is available in front-wheel or 4-wheel drive versions.
Toyota has yet to confirm the release date or pricing.