By Steve Laser
C-HR prologue
When Toyota revealed the C-HR prologue concept last year (shown below), it was said to offer a realistic vision of a future production model. And now that the second-generation C-HR is ready to go on sale in Europe, it’s easy to see the transition from concept to road-going vehicle.
Like the original C-HR, the prologue concept was created by Toyota European Design Development (ED2) in France. It features surfacing described as both precise and organic, with a hammerhead front fascia, tri-tone body colors, and a more sporty character overall.
Next Generation C-HR Lineup
The new C-HR is offered in an array of models along with several powertrain options. Shown below (l-r) is the C-HR Premiere Edition with Sulfur bi-tone + exterior, the High model in Emotional Red, and the GR SPORT in Precious Silver bi-tone +.
C-HR offers four electrified powertrains, with availability that varies by model, including self-charging Hybrid 140, Hybrid 200, Hybrid 200 AWD-i, and Plug-in Hybrid 220. Premiere Editions include special features and equipment.
C-HR GR SPORT Premiere Edition
The new C-HR accelerates the image of the successful first-generation model, that sold more than 840,000 units in Europe since 2017. With its new super-coupe profile, the C-HR gains diamond-cut side character lines, geometric shapes, and short front and rear overhangs.
Among the exterior enhancements reserved for the GR SPORT Premiere Edition is a new G-mesh pattern front grille, GR badges, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. All models feature full LED lighting, and aerodynamic details including Toyota-first flush door handles.
Inspired by the prologue concept, GR SPORT with new bi-tone + paint features black elements on the side sills and roof that contribute to the impression of a lowered roofline, along with a black three quarter section, plus a Toyota C-HR LED rear light bar.
GR SPORT Hybrid 200 has a 2.0-liter DOHC VVT-i 4-cylinder engine, electric motor, and lithium-ion battery, with total system output of 197 DIN hp. AWD-i adds a high-torque electric motor on the rear axle to improve traction, cornering, and driving on slippery surfaces. Optional is the Plug-In Hybrid 220 with FWD, that Toyota says extends all-electric range up to 66km (WLTP Combined).
C-HR rides on updated Toyota New Generation Architecture (TNGA), with a newly designed modified strut front and multi-link rear suspension. GR SPORT gains new Frequency Sensitive Control (FSC) shock absorber technology for optimized handling, while a dynamic damper on the front struts is said to help reduce road noise and vibration.
GR SPORT features sport front seats embossed with the GR logo, and Liquid Black detailing on the center console. An optional sky-view panoramic glass roof, featuring low-emissive and infrared-reducing coatings, is said to eliminate the need for a conventional sunshade, with additional benefits including weight savings and increased headroom.
The 12.3-inch digital instrument display can be customized by the driver. For example, the display can be changed with individual themes, including Casual, Smart, Tough or Sporty, along with three customizable dial layouts, via a controller on the steering wheel.
Additional high-tech goodies include a 12.3-inch Toyota Smart Connect Multimedia System, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless phone charger, a head-up display, premium JBL sound system, and USB-C ports.
Toyota Safety Sense features a Pre-Collision System and Proactive Driving Assist, Lane Trace Assist, Full-Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, Rear Seat Reminder System, and Safe Exit Assist. A Panoramic View Monitor is optional, and so is a semi-autonomous Advanced Park System, that can maneuver the C-HR into a parking space “hands-free,” or via a smartphone from outside of the vehicle.
Note: Features, specifications, and models are subject to change without notice. The new C-HR is not available in America.
News source and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Europe
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