Crossovers have been filling a gap in the automotive world that nobody knew we had, and Toyota is finally looking to jump onboard.
Carscoops has obtained official images of a new Toyota concept, a small, angular crossover called the C-HR.
The C-HR may be a boring name, but Toyota’s latest concept actually has a pretty distinct, muscular look to it, injecting new life into a lineup that is still fairly humdrum.
Toyota clearly supports a spicier model range, saying the C-HR “combines a powerful new design language with an engaging driving experience and a hybrid powertrain.” That hybrid powertrain is expected to show up in the next-generation Prius, which may feature an all-wheel drive option.
From the side, the crossover looks poised and sleek, with a snub-nosed, Volvo-like front profile and a rear end reminiscent of the 2014 Mazda3 5-door. The front fascia itself is quite unique, however, with squinty headlights spanning the front end and vertical running lights reflecting the considerable ground clearance.
Related: Is Toyota planning a hotrod FR-S with turbocharging and all-wheel drive?
The C-HR will sit slightly below the RAV4 in Toyota’s range, butting right up to the 99.6-inch wheelbase of the Nissan Juke.
The 2014 Juke is offered with a 188-horsepower engine for $19,170, but there is also a 197-hp turbo version for $23,170 and a 215-hp NISMO model for $26,120. The C-HR has also been billed a competitor to Nissan Qashqai, which isn’t available in the U.S.
Some have suggested the C-HR to be the first imagining of an “Auris Cross” hatchback, due out next year.
To see the crossover in the metal, stay tuned to our coverage of the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The event kicks off October 4th.
