Toyota C-HR concept: a vision of the future

Just as the RAV4 brought a fresh and unique view to the 4x4 market in 1994, the Toyota C-HR Concept represents Toyota’s unique view of the compact crossover segment.

Designed to appeal to those seeking “active urban lifestyles”, the expressive diamond architecture styling and muscular stance of the original C-HR Concept remain, but with 5 doors, a new metallic grey coat and more production-ready front and rear bodywork and lights, the C-HR Concept not only looks the part but offers us a very real glimpse at what’s to come.

Sitting beneath its coupe profile is a new platform designed to satisfy customers’ demands for state-of-the-art handling and control. At a compact 4,350mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,500mm high, the crossover’s lower centre of gravity and increased structural rigidity will contribute to an exhilarating driving experience.

Just like the ever-widening range of Toyota Hybrids, symbolised by Prius, the C-HR Concept is powered by our signature Hybrid system. This pioneering powertrain is the perfect match for the innovative new concept, combining feel-good driving with leading economy and emissions.

Looking down on the C-HR Concept from above you can see that the tapered corners not only remove mass from the body, but emphasises the powerful flair of the front and rear wheel arches, reinforcing the broad, planted stance of the car from every angle.

Above the robust central bumper profile, the slim upper grille has been evolved into a floating ‘wing’ graphic that flows seamlessly around the front corners of the car. Within the wings, complex headlamp detailing incorporates a high-tech, 3D treatment of the distinctive Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

The new look, which was a result of a global cooperation of design centres, represents a new styling theme that hints at a future design direction for our vehicles.

The purpose of all concept car designs is to gauge reaction to new styling and design direction, so by offering head-turning looks, agile driving dynamics and advanced powertrain, we hope that a compact crossover like the C-HR Concept will become a reality for those with active urban lifestyles.

This creates a floating, spoiler-tipped roof line, which is exaggerated by C pillars that taper into needle points either side of the rear screen. Detailed with patterned openings, the roof creates an animated play of light within the C-HR Concept’s cabin.

Seen from the rear, the dramatically tapering glasshouse and highly distinctive, aero-inspired floating rear lamp clusters emphasise the crossover’s wide shoulders and planted stance.