Scion C-HR Concept: Yes, Scion is Getting a Crossover
Toyota’s youth-focused Scion division is all grown up now and is adding a crossover to it’s lineup.
Although the Japanese automaker is saying that this is the world debut of the Scion C-HR concept, this is actually not the first time we’ve seen the vehicle shown here and unveiled today at the LA Auto Show.
Last year at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, Toyota debuted the same concept, albeit sporting a Toyota badge and in a shade of blue. But, technically speaking, it is the world debut of the Scion-branded C-HR, which means Toyota intends to bring the crossover to market in the U.S. as a Scion model.
The C-HR is named for its Compact size and High Ride height and is underpinned by Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). The company’s focus was on “creating a fantastic urban driving car,” according to C-HR chief engineer Hiro Koba. “My favorite place to be on a weekend is at a race track and I wanted to build a car that I would have just as much fun driving in the city during the week with refined driving comfort and responsive, precise steering.”
According to Scion, the new platform creates a lower center of gravity, increased body rigidity, more responsive handling and improved ride comfort.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show Coverage
With an aggressive style, the C-HR concept features graphite black accents on the grille, rear bumper, fender flares and lower side panels that reflect the strength and stance of the vehicle. Up top is an all-piano black roof, while 21-inch wheels round out the car’s rugged profile.
The company also confirmed at the 2015 L.A. Auto Show that the production model will debut next year and technical specifications will be announced at its unveiling.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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It's fantastic all right, fantastically ugly. Please Toyota - keep this one in Japan!
I can't figure out what this thing is trying to be.