Today, March 1st 2016, marks a momentous occasion for Toyota in Europe and the UK. The brand new C-HR crossover has been unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.
And what an awesome-looking car it is! The Chief Engineer of C-HR, Hiroyuki Koba, has long promised the this all-new entrant into the crossover would strongly resemble the stunning concept that was first shown a few years ago, and his word has been kept by his design team. The C-HR is a truly wonderful looking vehicle and we absolutely cannot wait for production to start later in 2016 and for them to start landing in the UK after that.
The C-HR is another huge step in Toyota President Akio Toyoda’s vision of making cars that are both stunning to look at and great to drive, and as such the car will sit on the newly-developed TNGA platform that allows for reduced weight and a lower centre of gravity for better road handling and driving pleasure.
Coupe-like Design
C-HR is one of the best-looking models Toyota have produced in many years, with a RAV4 “keen-look” inspired front end but after that the car is totally unique in the Toyota range. The extended wheel arches give the car a wide, powerful stance while maintaining compact dimensions to ensure the car is maneuverable in urban environments. Interior space has not been compromised however, and while interior shots of the car have not been released yet, the stunning design will continue inside and will likely feature Toyota Touch 2 as standard.
Engines & Powertrains
The C-HR will introduce hybrid power to the mid-size crossover segment, utilising the latest-generation of the 1.8-litre petrol/electric drivetrain found in the recently launched Toyota Prius. These engines will be built right here in the UK and achieve a thermal efficiency rating of 40%, which is the best in the world for a mass-produced engine. The hybrid version of the Toyota C-HR will be available in two-wheel-drive only, and though no official homologation has taken place, the car is slated to achieve best-in-class CO2 emissions of less than 90 g/km. This powertrain has a power output of 122 DIN hp, same as in the new Prius.
The only other engine option (upon launch) will be the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol unit, which has already been launched in the Auris hatchback with great feedback from customers, who enjoy the power of a 1.6-litre engine but the economy of a 1.2, as well as much improved torque. This engine will be available with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox,
C-HR Four Wheel Drive
The C-HR will be offered in four wheel drive when it goes on sale in late 2016. This will only be available with the 1.2-litre turbo engine and the CVT automatic gearbox, but will give increased road security on wet and slippy roads.
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