A new version of Toyota’s C-HR Concept compact crossover has made its world debut at the Frankfurt motor show, marking a further step towards a production model that will be revealed in Geneva next spring.
Toyota designers say they have created this new, five-door study following the “warm reception” given to the original concept when it was revealed at last year’s Paris motor show. The aim is to gauge reaction from target customer groups and obtain feedback that will help the project team in their work to deliver a full production version.
The car has been designed on a Toyota New Global Architecture – TNGA – platform, and continues the carmaker’s exploration of a new “diamond-shaped architecture” styling theme.
“The sculpting of the lower bodywork is influenced by the precision-cut faceting techniques used for precious gemstones,” explain the designers. “In plan-form, the corners of the bodyshell have been cleanly shaved off, reducing its mass in relation to volume and adding emphasis to the powerfully flared wheel arches and the vehicle’s broad, planted stance.”
The front end, meanwhile, develops Toyota’s “Keen Look” design theme. The upper grille, set above a central bumper profile, has evolved into a floating ‘wing’ graphic which flows around the vehicle’s front corners. Headlamp units with diamond pattern detailing are positioned at the furthest edges of the front wings.
The large lower grille also carries through the diamond pattern theme and is flanked by sculpted vertical elements. The frontal design is underscored by an aero-inspired ‘floating’ spoiler.
In side view, the roof’s floating appearance is emphasised by its piano black finish, while a patterned arrangement of openings creates an animated light play inside the cabin.
At the rear, the glasshouse tapers down, with further faceted treatment of the lower body. The effect is highlighted by a prominent diffuser, integrated fog lights and aero-inspired light clusters with diamond pattern lens detailing. The spokes of the 21-inch wheels have a “diamond-cut” machined finished.
Underneath, there is a full hybrid powertrain, with a petrol engine that Toyota claims has a thermal efficiency of more than 40 per cent.
Source: Toyota
