Toyota on new models offensive at Paris Motorshow
Determined to hold on to its position as the world’s bestselling brand, Toyota Motor Corporation has, at the ongoing Paris Motor Show, revealed some of the forthcoming attractions it is preparing to thrill the world of Motoring with.
Leading the pack on these models is the all-new Toyota C-HR (Coupe High-Rider), designed to stand out both within the Toyota line-up and in the crossover market, represents Akio Toyoda’s determination to allow greater stylistic freedom and promote creative engineering to deliver eye-catching designs and more driving pleasure.
It remains remarkably true to the general features seen on Toyota’s concept cars that attracted much public attention at the Paris motor show in 2014 and at the Frankfurt show the following year. Its coupe-like lines are testimony to its designers’ resolve to create a stand-out style for Toyota and establish a new direction among mid-sized crossovers.
Strategically, Toyota is targeting a clear and singular customer profile, people who are predominantly driven by emotional considerations, who want individuality and seek to be the first to try new experiences and products. Style and quality are essential qualities in any purchase they make and their car serves as an extension of their personality.
C-HR’s unique character demonstrates the flexibility that the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) gives to developers in the key areas of design, powertrain and dynamics, enabling them to deliver a new, fresh take in what has become an increasingly commoditised crossover segment.
The distinctive styling brings a new dynamism and sensual quality to the crossover market in its combination of a coupe-like upper body and the powerful underpinnings of an SUV.
The model was developed under the concept “Sensual Speed Cross” and features a diamond-shape architectural theme. Prominent, projecting wheel arches at each corner emphasise the vehicle’s strength and rigidity and the modulated structure combines a powerful lower body and raised ground clearance with the slim, sleek cabin profile of a coupe.
Viewed from any angle, the combination of faceted, gemstone-like shapes with fluid surfaces and elegantly integrated detailing creates a delicate balance of precision and sensuality.
The front represents a further development of Toyota’s contemporary design language, with a slender upper grille flowing from the Toyota emblem into the sleek extremities of the headlamp units, then wrapping fully around the front corners.
The prominent rear light clusters stand proud of the tapering bodywork – on some versions using LEDs and lightguides to create an expressive illumination signature.
In a new departure for the Japanese company, C-HR’s interior follows a “Sensual Tech” design concept, combining high-tech functionality with a sensual, fashionable style. The cabin is airy and spacious, with a focused area around the driver.
The warm and welcoming feel has been supported by layered architecture for the instrument panel, which extends into the door trim and features stylish details and a piano black panel. It creates a contrast between sensual surfacing and crisp lines to project a fresh yet comfortable feel.
Together with the asymmetric centre console, this brings all controls within easy reach of the driver, while keeping relevant switchgear accessible for the front seat passenger.
In terms of offering, class-leading sensory quality, aware of the fact that C-HR customers will also be considering premium brand models. To support this, it brought its European Sensory Quality team into the vehicle’s design process at the earliest stage yet.
Working closely with the designers, the SQ team has focused on component quality and consistency of grain, texture, shape, colour and illumination in every element, even down to the radii of the stitching grooves in the seats.
Given the state-of-the-art powertrains, C-HR’s engine range is designed to deliver exactly the kind of fluent, engaging driving behaviour its target customers are looking for. Globally the C-HR will be offered with both petrol and hybrid powertrains.
Inspired by what he learned in meeting with this type of customer, C-HR Chief Engineer Hiroyuki Koba focused firmly on their requirements throughout the development process, setting high benchmarks for design and perceived quality.
MIKE OCHONMA