Toyota C-HR SUV likely to be launched in India with hybrid engine; to rival Jeep Compass

It is no secret that Toyota is currently assessing possibilities of bringing its C-HR SUV to India as a rival to Jeep Compass. A unit of the radical looking SUV had been spotted in Bengaluru in July hinting that Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is serious about the C-HR launch.

Emerging reports indicate that Toyota may plonk a petrol hybrid engine in the C-HR and there will be no diesel engine option. Toyota has already started dropping diesel engines and its latest model, the Yaris is offered only with the petrol mill. The success of the Honda City rival seems to be the key reason why Toyota may go for petrol hybrid engine. Having said that, Toyota is yet to officially comment about the launch plan of C-HR in India.

The petrol hybrid engine in question will have a 1.8-litre petrol hybrid engine that produces 96.6bhp and 142Nm of torque working in tandem with an electric motor that produces 71bhp and 163Nm of torque. The mill will come mated to a CVT gearbox channelling power to all the four wheels.

The five-door SUV, with car-like stance, was unveiled at the March 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The C-HR has an athletic design highlighted with edgy body panels, beefy wheel arches and coupe-like rear roof end.

The front fascia gets two slim projector-beam halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights have been wrapped around and that makes the vehicle look wider than it is. The character line for both sides that emerge from the Toyota badge in the front continues above the rear wheel and it ends at the top of distinctive C-Pillar. At the rear, protruding tail lamps, a lip spoiler and functional top wing add sportiness.

As for the interior, the slightly angled dashboard and controls are up-market. The 7-inch audio display, positioned centrally atop the dash, is one of the major attractions.

Don't expect the Toyota C-HR India launch soon. Reports claim the C-HR project is in the preliminary stage for India and it has been earmarked for 2020. Toyota may assemble or manufacture the CH-R in India, depending on situation closer to the launch timeframe.

Source: Gaadiwaadi