Toyota this afternoon took the covers off the next-generation C-HR, offering a striking new look, more up-to-date tech, and a range-topping GR Sport model for the first time.
In Europe, the crossover can be reserved from today, however, the automaker’s local subsidiary has yet to confirm if and when the new C-HR will be landing in local showrooms.
C-HR specifications
The new C-HR was designed as a “concept car for the road” offering a “super-coupe” profile and radical exterior styling.
Its nose is reminiscent of the brand’s bZ4X electric SUV and Prius hybrid with the sharp headlights and wide gaping mouth, this look continuing to the rear which features a body-spanning lightbar.
A new style and palette of bi-tone paints are now available, too, which see the roof colour extended down to the rear bumper and three-quarter panels, and it rides on redesigned alloy wheels up to 20 inches in diameter.
The Toyota’s cabin was similarly overhauled to provide a more premium and refined ambience than its predecessor.
The most important control elements are now concentrated in close reach of the driver, while a horizontal instrument panel arrangement in a wing design “gives passengers the sense of the cabin wrapping around them, enhancing the sense of comfort,” said Toyota.
Depending on the trim, the crossover features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for sharper graphics and easy-to-read vehicle information, which can be adjusted to prioritise various content according to driver preferences.
Moreover, each new C-HR brings either an 8 or a 12.3-inch infotainment display running the Toyota Smart Connect software that offers a “voice agent” as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In the plug-in-hybrid versions, it also provides charging locations and EV range information.
The technological advances continue with Digital Key support that allows the owner to leave the fob at home and use their phone to access the cabin, ambient lighting with up to 64 colours, and a “unique-in-class” automatic parking function which has the added benefit of allowing fully-remote parking via a smartphone app with the driver outside of the vehicle.
The Toyota can now also sense when someone approaches and it will illuminate the light signature on the rear door and apply their preferred seating, instrument display, heads-up display, and multimedia settings before they get inside.
For the new C-HR, the manufacturer has standardised the advanced safety and assistance (ADAS) features across the line-up giving each variant the full Toyota Safety Sense suite.
Key functions include Acceleration Suppression which slows any sudden use of the throttle when the risk of a collision is detected, Proactive Driving Assist which provides smooth deceleration when approaching a slower vehicle or entering a bend, and Steering Assist which recognises a corner and adjusts steering force to help with smoother turns.
“For added convenience, future system software updates can be delivered over the air, with no need for a retailer visit,” said Toyota.
Optionally, there are several ADAS extras that can be installed such as lane-change assist with front cross-traffic alert, a driver alertness monitor, automatic high-beam assist with camera control, and a hands-free driving system for stop-start traffic.
Under the skin, the Toyota has gained a variety of new-energy powertrains comprising 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre hybrids (HEV), as well as a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
The 1.8-litre HEV already features in the Corolla range where it generates between 90-108kW, though the automaker has not revealed what it will produce in the new C-HR.
The 2.0-litre HEV promises a higher output than the 1.8 for a “rewarding hybrid driving experience with uncompromised efficiency,” said the manufacturer. This particular version can also be had in all-wheel drive with added traction and stability over its front-wheel-drive siblings.
The PHEV then provides true electric-car capabilities through all-electric driving “with a very competitive range” and brake energy recuperation in three operating levels that provides a “one pedal-like driving experience” and “takes much of the stress out of driving.”
Toyota C-HR
Keyword: New Toyota C-HR revealed – Photos