Toyota uncovers second-gen C-HR

TOYOTA has uncovered its second-generation C-HR this week, the three-grade compact SUV arriving with sharper styling, hybrid-only drivelines and greater technology levels than the popular outgoing range.

Due for launch Down Under in the first half of next year, the new Toyota C-HR is marginally shorter and wider than the current model, with approximate measurements listed at 4360mm long, 1830mm wide, and 1564mm high. The wheelbase is 2640mm.

Toyota says the model offers short overhangs (915mm front / 805mm rear) and rides on wheel sizes up to 19 inches to give it’s a “striking, sporty and planted stance” that is “further enhanced by its couple-like profile”.

In other words, the C-HR shares a lot in common with the Prologue Concept shown late last year.

The new C-HR will be offered in three trim grades – GXL, Koba and GR Sport – the latter of which will be offered with a 112kW/190Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine and 83kW/206Nm front and 30kW/84Nm rear electric motors to provide all-wheel drive with a combined maximum system output of 145kW. Top speed is listed at 180km/h.

Entry and mid-tier variants offer a 72kW/142Nm 1.8-litre petrol engine and 70kW/185Nm electric motor combination with two-wheel drive (front) and a maximum system output of 103kW, 15 per cent more than the outgoing equivalent. Top speed is listed at 170km/h.

Toyota says both drivelines benefit from its fifth-generation hybrid system bringing lighter, more compact technology to the segment alongside a new transaxle and power control unit, more powerful 4.08Ah high-voltage lithium-ion battery and “an optimal balance of performance and fuel economy”.

Elsewhere in its construction, the C-HR uses twice the recycled materials content of its predecessor in as many as 100 different parts, including the seat upholstery which is made from recycled PET bottles.

Other highlights are to include a new panoramic roof design featuring “infra-red reducing coatings to help maintain the interior at more even temperatures”, the coverless glass top saving 5kg in weight and improving headroom by 30mm.

Wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity are provided via the standard 12.3-inch infotainment system – promising “greater customer personalisation” and Connected Services functionality – supplemented in higher grades by a fully digital instrument cluster, while more advanced safety technologies feature throughout the range.

“The C-HR has drawn a loyal following among Australian buyers looking for a sharply-styled medium SUV and this all-new model takes its dynamic good looks, performance and features to a premium level befitting its European origins,” said Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley.

“Our customers are demanding more and more hybrid models and this all-new C-HR is the first Toyota in Australia to be offered with hybrid-only powertrains. At the same time, it also delivers the extensive safety, distinctive style and premium features they want from a contemporary SUV.”

Toyota will announce further details and Australian specifications for the next-generation C-HR closer to the model’s launch.