The Indian market is slowly becoming a snowball of SUVs with new models entering the segment every year. The SUV segment has witnessed surge in demand contemplating automakers to pluck new models from their global portfolio. The latest carmaker to dive into the compact SUV space in India is Toyota as the company joins hands with Maruti Suzuki to develop Vitara Brezza based compact SUV. Besides, the Japanese brand is also evaluating its globally popular Toyota CHR crossover for the Indian market. Though, it is quite early to comment on when Toyota will launch this model in India. What’s interesting is that the hybrid version of the C-HR crossover has been spotted testing on Indian roads.
The Toyota CHR is based on the company’s TNGA (Toyota New Generation Architecture) platform. It is expected that the India-spec model will receive a hybrid powertrain, which will also power the upcoming Corolla sedan. The CHR will be a five-seater premium SUV to challenge the likes of Jeep Compass and Hyundai Tucson. In the Indian line-up, Toyota could slot the SUV below Fortuner both in terms of positioning and pricing. Toyota C-HR, which stands for Coupe High-Rider, was revealed globally in concept form at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Primarily a five-door crossover, C-HR could be the second model based on TNGA platform to be developed in India, first being the upcoming Corolla Hybrid sedan.
Toyota CHR Launch Date In India
Japanese automaker is yet to confirm the C-HR India launch plans. Speaking to media, Toyota officials have confirmed that they are considering CHR for Indian market. Though, final call on the launch is yet to be taken. What’s more interesting is that the hybrid version of this 5-seater premium SUV has been spotted testing in India. If Toyota decided to launch the CHR, it will only happen in 2020-2021.
Toyota CHR Price In India
| Minimum | Rs 15 Lakh |
| Maximum | Rs 20 Lakh |
As mentioned in the beginning, the premium crossover will be positioned below Fortuner in Toyota’s India line-up implying that pricing would be aggressive. In its category, the premium crossover will fight credible rivals including Jeep Compass and Hyundai Tucson hence the price for C-HR is estimated between Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. Looking at the estimated price, the premium crossover can be placed on the crosshairs of other compact & premium models in the SUV space. Read – Upcoming Toyota Cars In India
Toyota CHR Engine Specifications
| Specifications | Petrol | Petrol Hybrid |
| Engine | 1.2-litre turbocharged | 1.8-litre petrol + Electric Motor |
| Power | 113bhp | 168bhp |
| Torque | 184Nm | 305Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT & AT | CVT automatic |
If reports are to be believed, Toyota will launch the petrol-electric hybrid version of the C-HR crossover in India. It is powered by a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder in-line 16-Valve DOHC VVT-i engine coupled to a 53kW electric motor. The hybrid motor is good for combined power of 168bhp and 305Nm torque.
The global model is also available with petrol and diesel fuel options. The petrol powered C-HR crossover for Indian market could also receive a high capacity 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit mated to a CVT, putting out 148bhp of power and 193Nm of torque.
As for the transmission options, there could be six-speed manual and six-speed automatic unit. Globally, the SUV is offered with a 1.2 litre turbocharged petrol making 113bhp and 184Nm of torque and the 1.8 litre petrol hybrid. It is to be noted that these engines could be offered on the Indian model. Check Out – New Toyota Fortuner – Picture Gallery
Toyota CHR Dimensions
| Length | 4,350mm |
| Width | 1,795mm |
| Height | 1,565mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,640mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180mm |
| Boot Space | 377-litres |
In terms of proportions, the C-HR crossover measures 4,350mm long, 1,795mm wide and 1,565mm high. The wheelbase is 2,6400mm long and the luggage storage space is generous too at 377-litres. As for the ground clearance, we expect it to be around 180mm.
Toyota CHR Image Gallery
Toyota CHR Braking & Suspension Mechanism
Power to retard speed will come from ventilated disc brakes at front axle and for rear it is likely to use disc units. Additionally, it will receive ABS (Anti-Lock Braking system) and brake assist to add further dint. For suspension it will use the McPherson Strut in front and Double Wishbone set up at rear.
Toyota CHR Exterior
Toyota C-HR will be modelled on Toyota’s New Generation Architecture (TNGA) that also underpins Prius. Revealed in concept form in 2014 at the Paris Motor Show, the production version is likely to stay close to its prototype. In terms of styling, the coupe-crossover will sport aggressive lines, modish front profile & rear fenders and sporty rear facet. The sculpted bodywork further accentuates the assertive stance, whereas the cleanly shaved off corners of the body-shell reduce the body mass. At the same the pronounced wheel arches on the side profile add more width to the body.
The face sports a slim upper grille design reflecting a floating ‘wing’ shapeand sharp headlamps infused with high-tech 3D DRLs. Lower grille on the other hand is larger and is flanked by round shaped fog lamps and floating front spoiler. The glasshouse extending towards the rear screen gives an effect of a floating roof. At the back, the tapering glasshouse lends a planted and broad look. Additionally, it also sports an aero-inspired floaring light clusters.
Toyota CHR Interior
Styling on the inside will be plush and chic sporting asymmetrical dashboard with a suave layout. A large 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Toyota’s Multi-Media navigation platform and high-tech connected services is equipped inside. Use of premium leather inside along with piano black and satin silver trims on the door and dashboard enhance the styling quotient. The global model come with an option of three interior colour schemes-Dark Grey, Black and Blue and Black & Brown. In terms of in-cabin features, the SUV comes with bespoke upholstery with part-leather seats, smart entry system, a JBL audio system with 9 speakers and heated seats among others.
