Toyota has been putting a more fun vibe into its vehicles lately. The company that was known for coming out with reliable vehicles has admittedly also produced some bland designs over the years. Yet cars like the 86, the SF-R concept, and even funky boxes on wheels like the Japan-only Pixis have somehow radically changed this boring image.
But probably the biggest harbinger of change has got to be the upcoming CH-R subcompact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). The little crossover, which first saw concept form daylight as the Scion CH-R, is set to hit showrooms by the second quarter of 2017. And the look alone is a signal that Toyota wants to be known as a company that also wants to have fun.
The front end, for instance, features two slim projector beam headlamps that flank an equally stylish grille. The headlights even wrap around the toned fenders for a more dynamic stance. A slew of diamond-accent styling cues can be seen in places like the front fascia, the side with the wheel arches, and even the rear. The 18-inch alloys give the otherwise smallish dimensions more bulk.
The cabin is highlighted by diamond-accentuated shapes, along with a driver-centric instrument cluster and dashboard. The MeZone houses all the necessary controls, laid out in true logical Toyota fashion. The only difference is, this one is a lot funkier. There are goodies like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 7-inch display, auto-dimming rearview mirror with backup camera, dual-zone climate control, and even Voice control for the infotainment system, just to name a few.
Apart from a funky vibe, the CH-R promises a fun time behind the wheel. The engine, for instance, is a punchy 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out 144hp and 190Nm of torque. It even employs tech like Valvematic and Variable Valve Timing (VVTI) for exceptional power delivery and fuel economy. Mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), this combo looks to give the little runabout some serious punch and some equally exceptional fuel economy numbers.
The system even uses a Preload Differential to help distribute power between the left and right wheels more evently. This results in better handling and more composed high-speed stability. This is combined with McPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension system. The ones at the back is noteworthy in that it utilizes SACHS shock absorbers—a first for Toyota—for better handling and ride comfort.
And of course, the new Toyota CH-R boasts of cutting-edge safety via the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P). The suite of safety gear features Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Automatic High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, among others.
The Toyota CH-R was unveiled at this year’s Los Angeles International Auto Show. All told, it looks to be one, if not the funkiest Toyota ever.
