Toyota C-HR, Diamond Design

The unique character of the C-HR shows the adaptability of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) for vehicle engineers in the three key ranges of configuration, powertrain and progression, permitting them to convey a crisp take in the undeniably well known hybrid section.

As a result, the C-HR remains remarkably true to the general features of the concept-cars that attracted so much public attention at Paris in 2014 and Frankfurt in 2015. The coupe-like lines are a testimony to the resolve of its designers to create a style that stands out in the Toyota range, and to establish a new direction amongst mid-sized crossovers.

A coupe-like design

The C-HR introduces a distinctive styling featuring a body with a diamond architectural theme with wheel arches projecting prominently at all four corners to emphasise the new crossover’s strength and rigidity. The C-HR’s modulated structure combines the powerful lower body and raised ground clearance with the slim and sleek cabin profile of a coupe.

The front

The front represents a further development of Toyota’s Under Priority and Keen Look design identity. The slender upper grille flows from the Toyota emblem into the sleek, aggressive wing extremities of the headlamp clusters and wraps fully around the front corners of the vehicle.

The lamp clusters incorporate full LED lighting with light guides and sequential turn signals, giving the C-HR its own unique visual signature. Below, the enhanced three-dimensionality of the bumper that’s integrated with the wheel flairs and the trapezoidal lower grille architecture reinforce the C-HR’s wide, firmly planted stance.

The back

The movement of the blacked out rocker panel towards the front and rear wheel, along with the shoulder axis that runs through to the front and rear emphasize the fast-looking, “lift-up” feel of the thin body. The C-HR’s coupe-like styling is further enhanced by disguised rear door handles integrated within the C pillar, and the powerful projection of the sweeping roofline into a large, skeletal frame rear spoiler.

To the rear, the strongly tapered cabin integrates the back door while securing luggage space. This contrasts with the pronounced flaring of the wheel arches to give the new crossover a wide and extremely powerful stance. Standing proud of the tapering body work, prominent rear light clusters may also be equipped with LED lamp technology to give the C-HR an equally expressive rear light visual signature.

This car is the result of a global cooperation between design centres on three continents and was managed by Project Chief Designer Kazuhiko Isawa. The original exterior design was created by Calty, the Toyota design studio in California.