Toyota Launches the C-HR, an SUV Crossover

RE-DEFINING THE CROSS-OVER

The small SUV segment represents the fastest growing ‘group’ on the South African passenger vehicle landscape. A unique characteristic of this segment is the variety and diversity of models. This led to the birth of the ‘cross-over’ – a modern fusion of hatchback and SUV, fusing the best attributes of each, to create a vehicle which perfectly fits the modern urban lifestyle.

FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY

The Toyota C-HR remains remarkably true to the features of the concept-cars that attracted so much public attention. With the C-HR, Toyota targets a clear and singular customer profile (identified as Millenials). Predominantly driven by emotional considerations, these customers want individuality, and to be the first to try new experiences and products. Style and quality are essential considerations in any purchase they make, and the car is an extension of their personality.

“With its striking, in-your-face design, careful attention to detail and punchy 1.2 litre turbo engine, we believe the C-HR delivers the perfect package for image conscious urbanites. Further setting C-HR apart is its fun-to-drive character which rewards the spirited driver.” says Glenn Crompton, Vice-President of Marketing at Toyota South Africa.

A NEW DESIGN DIRECTION FOR THE CROSSOVER SEGMENT

Viewed from any angle, the C-HR’s combination of facetted gemstone-like shapes with fluid surfaces and elegantly integrated detailing create a delicate balance of precision and sensuality. The front represents a further development of Toyota’s signature design identity.

The C-HR’s coupe-like styling is further enhanced by disguised rear door handles integrated within the C pillar and a sweeping roofline. The prominent rear light clusters give the rear view of the C-HR an equally expressive visual signature.

SOPHISTICATED INTERIOR DESIGN WITH OUTSTANDING SENSORY QUALITY

The driver oriented area incorporates innovative details and intuitive, approachable technology. All operating switchgear and a display audio touch-screen are slightly angled towards the driver. A unique new two-tiered front seat design combines a slender, sporting upper section (inspired by the ‘bucket’ design of old) with a more strongly bolstered and supportive lower area.

The diamond motif is extended from the exterior into the interior, with many interior elements – including the door panels – using a similar shape. Decorative elements are finished in high quality piano black – with embedded metallic ‘flake’ – and satin silver trim, with cool blue illumination throughout.

1.2 TURBO ENGINE DELIVERS EFFORTLESS PROPULSION

The Toyota C-HR is the first model locally to utilise Toyota’s advanced new 1.2 litre turbo engine. The 1.2T engine uses advanced technologies that allow the engine to change from the Otto-cycle to the Atkinson cycle under low loads. To this, the 1.2T adds the D-4T direct injection system, VVTi-W, high compression ratio as well as a water-cooled turbo and heat-exchanger.

Displacing 1,197cm3, the engine delivers 85kW and a constant torque curve of 185 Nm between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. 0 to 100 km/h comes up in 10.9 seconds and the top speed is set at 190 km/h. All of this is achieved despite a strong focus on fuel consumption and CO₂ – the manual car achieves 6.3 l/100 km on the combined cycle, and delivers just 141g/km of CO₂. CVT models deliver 6.4 l/100 km and produce 144 g/km.

TRANSMISSIONS WITH TECH

Two transmissions are available, a 6-speed Manual with Toyota’s iMT system (intelligent Manual Transmission), or a buttery smooth CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) option.

Toyota’s iMT system which automatically increases the engine revs with a perfectly executed ‘blip’ when down-shifting ensures a smooth gear shift. A shift indicator with two directional arrows housed in the instrument cluster, provides the optimal shift points on M/T models. The CVT variant utilises an electronic brain to ensure that the optimal gear ratio is selected based on vehicle and engine speed, as well as rate of acceleration required. In addition, the driver can access seven pre-defined gear ratios in Manual mode.

MATCH THE MODE

Three modes are provided for the driver to choose from, which tailor the powertrain characteristics to suit the conditions – Normal, Eco and Sport.

DYNAMICS THAT FLATTER

From the very outset of the project, the C-HR was to boast excellent dynamics, establishing a new direction for Cross-over vehicles. “We wanted to achieve performance on a par with a good C-segment hatchback.” said Hiroyuki Koba. With its low centre of gravity and double-wishbone rear suspension, the new TNGA-based platform has formed an ideal starting point.

To ensure precision, a bespoke MacPherson Strut suspension was designed. It includes a strut bearing rotation axis that has been defined to reduce steering friction drastically, allowing smooth and accurate steering. To ensure a hatchback-like roll-rigidity, the large-diameter stabilizer is directly linked to the strut via a stabiliser link.

All models are fitted with 17″ wheels, shod with 215-60R-17 rubber. Plus models feature blade-style alloy versions.

SPECIFICATION TO REWARD

The C-HR is equipped with a host of comfort and convenience features. The Multi-Information Display (full-colour TFT on the PLUS model) – is operated by a 4-way direction switch on the steering wheel. PLUS models also feature audio system controls.

Sure to find appeal from urban commuters is the Electric Parking Brake (EPB), which operates very intuitively, automatically engaging and disengaging in correspondence with gear and key position. A handy Hill Assist Control function is included, with a dedicated hold button providing an extended ‘holding period’.

Plus models also feature a dual-zone electronic climate control with Eco mode. A manual air-conditioner system is fitted to the standard model. Adding further convenience is the one-touch auto up/down power windows and electrically adjusted mirrors.

The interior also features two conveniently located cupholders in the centre console, a storage shelf for mobile devices or media players and a 12-volt power outlet.

On Plus derivatives, both headlamps and wipers are equipped with an auto-on function whilst the Electrochromatic (auto-dimming) rear view mirror ensures unaltered night time vision.

The audio system makes use of touchscreen technology and allows occupants to play a variety of media types through the vehicle’s sound system.

To this point; USB, iPod, iPhone, Bluetooth and CD/DVD interfaces are catered for. Plus models are additionally equipped with Cruise Control.

SAFETY AND SENSIBILITY

A full suite of Active Safety functions are embedded into the C-HR and include ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Two ISOFIX attachment points are provided. Driver and Passenger airbags round out the safety specification.

GRADE WALK

CHOOSE THE C-HR FOR YOU

There are three derivatives to choose from, which vary specification grade and transmission choice. Plus grade models add additional specification features to the base package.

• Toyota C-HR 1.2T 6MT                        – R 318 500
• Toyota C-HR 1.2T 6MT Plus                – R 345 000
• Toyota C-HR 1.2T CVT Plus               – R 356 000

WARRANTY AND SERVICE PLAN

All C-HR models come standard with a comprehensive 5 year/90 000 km service plan, with service intervals set at 15 000 km. A 3 year/100 000 km warranty is provided.