Set to rival the likes of the popular Nissan Juke, Ford EcoSport and Mazda CX-3, as well as the forthcoming Audi Q2 and the likely production version of Volkswagen’s T-Cross concept, the recently unveiled Toyota C-HR is set to arrive in South Africa in early 2017.
Built on the same Toyota New Global Architecture (TNCA) as the new Prius, the global C-HR range is likely to include a similar hybrid drivetrain to its better-know sibling. Destined for South African showrooms is an 85 kW turbocharged 1,2-litre petrol engine mated with a choice of either six-speed manual or CVT transmission. This direct injection unit delivers 185 N.m of torque between 1 400 and 4 000 r/min to the vehicle’s front wheels.
Considering the relatively conservative nature of Toyota’s current design language, the distinctly bold, coupe-like stance of the C-HR looks set to offer a welcome fresh approach towards market penetration.
