Toyota C-HR Crossover Concept Unmasked

Ahead of the 2014 Paris Motor Show, images of the Toyota C-HR Crossover Concept are out in the open. The concept car is expected to become production real in 2017, as Toyota’s answer to the likes of the Nissan Juke and the Renault Duster. The C-HR Crossover Concept is one of the sharpest designed Toyota cars we’ve seen in recent times and if the Japanese automaker can carryover these styling cues to the production version, it may well have a winner on its hands, at least in design terms. The C-HR concept hosts a hybrid powertrain, which production models are expected to feature petrol and diesel power.

Notably, the Toyota Auris’ underpinnings host the C-HR crossover concept. Test mules wearing the Auris’ body shells have been spotted in Europe. The Auris is the hatchback version of the Toyota Corolla, which is sold in India, in sedan form. Additionally, the C-HR is expected to adopt many bits from the Toyota New Generation Architecture in the interests of cutting costs. More details of the C-HR are expected to be revealed at the concept’s official unveil at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Toyota could possibly consider the C-HR for an Indian launch, as a crossover that rivals the likes of the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross and the Renault Duster.

Toyota’s current portfolio in India has just two volume spinners, the Innova MPV and the Fortuner SUV. Going forward, the Japanese automaker would need more variety in its ranks if it intends to remain on a strong footing in the Indian car market. Compact SUVs and crossover segments are booming in India and the production version of the C-HR could be a option worth considering for India. Toyota’s short term gameplan for India includes all-new Innova and fortuner variants over the next couple of years, followed by the Vios C-Segment sedan.