Japanese automaker, Toyota has recently launched the updated versions of the Fortuner and the Innova Crysta. Adding to it, the Urban Cruiser based on the Vitara Brezza was launched in the second half of 2020. The company has also discontinued the Etios range due to BS6 emission norms. Interestingly, Toyota is testing two of its globally popular mid-sized SUVs – the RAV4 and the C-HR.
The new Toyota RAV4 and the C-HR crossover are expected to be launched in the Indian market in near future. These models will be launched under the Government’s policy of allowing automakers to import 2,500 cars without going through local homologation process. Toyota wants to make full use of this opportunity by introducing some of its globally popular SUVs. Volkswagen is also following this strategy, as it launched the T-ROC and the Tiguan AllSpace under the Government’s freedom of importing 2,500 cars without local homologation.
Toyota RAV4 – Hybrid Version
The company is reportedly planning to launch the hybrid version of the RAV4 mid-sized SUV in the country. To be introduced as a CBU (Completely Built-Up Unit), the new Toyota RAV4 hybrid is expected to cost above 50 lakh. It is based on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), which also underpins the C-HR and the Prius. In terms of proportions, the RAV4 is 4,600mm long, 1,855mm wide and 1,685mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,690mm.
The hybrid model is likely to be powered by a 218bhp version of the 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a strong hybrid system. There is a motor/generator mounted on the rear axle, which allows the hybrid powertrain to drive power to all-4 wheels. It offers up to 80% of the torque to the rear wheels.
Toyota C-HR Crossover
This model could be offered in petrol avatar only to rival the likes of the Volkswagen T-ROC, Skoda Karoq and others in its segment. The C-HR comes with unique and bold design language. It comes with futuristic styling and looks different from other crossovers. In terms of proportions, the C-HR measures 4,360mm in length and has a wheelbase of 2,640mm. The crossover offers a boot space of 370-litres, which is 70-litre more than the Toyota Innova Crysta.
It is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that churns out 144bhp of power and 188Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via an e-CVT unit. The India-spec model is likely to come with a hybrid engine, which comprises of a 1.8-litre petrol engine paired to an electric motor delivering a combined power output of 122bhp.
