The Toyota C-HR Prologue Concept Is a Preview Of A PHEV Future C-HR
Toyota’s next-generation C-HR will come with plug-in power.
The Toyota C-HR has kind of turned into a bit of an also-ran in the subcompact crossover segment. The crossover debuted in 2016 and is now one of Toyota’s oldest models, and could use an update to keep it competitive. The C-HR Prologue concept is a preview of things to come; sharper styling and this time, plug-in hybrid power.
The C-HR Prologue concept was penned in France, but it looks to be a concept-ized version of the styling language we’ve seen on the latest Prius and all-new Crown. The overhangs are shorter, and Toyota says the interior should be more spacious than the current generation vehicle. Like the old model, the CH-R has a sporty, fastback roofline paired with a high-riding stance, although we’re not sure if the super rakish roofline and retractable door handles will make it to production. Whatever the case, Toyota says the production version will still be “bold, polarising, provocative and fun.”
In North America, the C-HR has been gas-only, and only available with front-wheel-drive, but other markets have gotten all-wheel-drive and hybrid options. This latest model takes things a step further; Toyota says the latest C-HR will be offered in a plug-in hybrid form using batteries assembled in Europe.
Toyota hasn’t said if the latest C-HR will make it to North America. Still, given the demand for small crossovers with hybrid and plug-in technology, we wouldn’t be surprised if the latest C-HR shows up on our shores to do battle against cars like the Kia Niro PHEV.
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Kevin has been obsessed with cars ever since he could talk. He even learned to read partially by learning and reading the makes and models on the back of cars, only fueling his obsession. Today, he is an automotive journalist and member of the Automotive Press Association. He is well-versed in electrification, hybrid cars, and vehicle maintenance.
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"... given the demand for small crossovers with hybrid and plug-in technology, we wouldnt be surprised if the latest C-HR shows up on our shores to do battle against cars like the Kia Niro PHEV." And if it shows up in those duds, it'll turn the game on it ears. Nice. Very nice!