Toyota has given a world premiere their new Toyota C-HR this week and it will go on sale in Ireland next year. It said that the launch of the original Toyota C-HR was a landmark for both them and the European C-SUV segment, in contrast with conventional SUV styling with its dramatic, sharp-edged design closer to the look of contemporary sports coupes.
The Japanese carmaker said at the launch that customers responded strongly with more than half citing the car’s styling as their principal reason for purchase. It added that that the C-HR went on to become Toyota’s best-performing model for conquest sales.
Now Toyota boasts that their all-new, next generation C-HR takes the stand-out quality and status of its predecessor to a higher level with avant-garde design, advanced technologies and a range of electrified hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with increased power. It further claims greater driveability and extended all-electric driving capabilities.
It says that the new model was conceived in Europe with European customers firmly in mind, and it is being built exclusively in Europe, including assembly of its high-voltage battery units.
Toyota says that that the all-new C-HR is a sophisticated compact SUV, featuring edgy design and advanced technologies. It adds that the original Toyota C-HR broke the mould of SUV design with its coupe-like lines. These are rendered even more sharply in the new model with its “super-coupe” profile. The frontal treatment presents the new face for Toyota SUVs, seen also on the all-electric bZ4X and new Prius.
The car’s dynamic, condensed look is further strengthened by short overhangs and large wheels – up to 20-inch diameter. A new style of bi-tone paint design will be available, extending the contrast black roof down to the rear bumper and into the car’s rear three-quarter section.
Inside, the Toyota C-HR features (depending on trim grade here in Ireland ) a new, 12.3-inch fully digital combi-meter . It says that graphics are sharp and information is clearly zoned and easy to read. The display can be adjusted to prioritise different content according to driver preference or the kind of journey being made. The introduction of a ‘Digital Smart Key’ is also expected during 2024.
Toyota says that all versions of the all-new C-HR will benefit from the latest Toyota Safety Sense portfolio of active safety and driver assistance features. Their range and functionality have been extended to provide even greater safeguards. For added convenience, future system software updates can be delivered over-the-air, with no need for a retailer visit.
Key developments include new ‘Acceleration Suppression’ that slows any sudden use of the throttle when risk of a collision with a vehicle ahead is detected. Also new, ‘Proactive Driving Assist’ (PDA ) works at low speeds, providing smooth deceleration when the driver comes off the throttle when approaching a slower vehicle ahead, or entering a bend. It also provides ‘Steering Assist’, which recognises a bend ahead and adjusts steering force to help the driver make a smooth and stable turn.
The specifications that will be available in Ireland have not been announced yet. Overall, availability of powertrains in Europe includes four hybrid electric options. The range comprises 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid electric (HEV ) versions and a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV ) model. The 2.0-litre HEV variant will additionally be available with the option of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i ).
Toyota says that the new models benefit from the latest, their fifth generation technology which it boasts of delivering a class-leading balance of increased power and low emissions.
At the launch this week, Toyota Europe said that new C-HR will be introduced with two special Premiere Edition models, showcasing the highest levels of equipment and styling. They will be the GR SPORT Premiere Edition and High Premiere Edition. No announcements have been made on specifications or pricing for Ireland at this time.
