Toyota is in need for a high volumes car in India. For years, it has been surviving with the sales of the Innova and Fortuner, but while they may have huge profit margins, the sales numbers are not really something to brag about. Also, recently the brand launched the Glanza hatchback which is a half-hearted attempt at badge engineered cars (Glanza based on Maruti Suzuki Baleno) just to drive in incremental sales.
Now, the C-HR, a crossover SUV has been spotted in India. Toyota already sells the C-HR in global markets and if launched in India, it would rival the likes of Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and if you consider the hybrid variant which was spotted on test, some might consider the C-HR as a rival to the Hyundai Kona and also the upcoming MG eZS. Toyota is betting big on hybrid cars in India with the Camry and Prius already having this tech in our market.
Toyota could showcase the C-HR at the 2020 Auto Expo in India and this would be the most radical design in the brands showrooms. Based on the TNGA platform, the C-HR tips the scale at 4360mm in length, 1795mm in width, 1565mm in height and runs on 18″ alloy wheels in international markets. With sharp and edgy styling, the C-HR has a very coupe-like sloping roof line with a sporty spoiler, flared wheel arches, projector headlamps, LED DRLs, body cladding, sharkfin antenna, C-pillar mounted rear door handle and more. On the inside, the C-HR will have all the latest features including a touchscreen infotainment, automatic climate control, leather upholstery and the likes.
The C-HR hybrid gets a 1.8L petrol motor coupled to an electric motor with a combined power output of 122 HP. The engine in India will most definitely come matched to an eCVT gearbox as we have seen on the Camry. There is also a more punchy motor without the hybrid tech which is a 2.0L unit producing 145 PS of power.
Time will tell if Toyota would bring the C-HR to India. But they surely need more products in their showrooms.
