Toyota enters the subcompact crossover segment with the new C-HR

The competition within the subcompact crossover segment continues to heat up as Toyota revealed its own entry at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show – the new C-HR. With its striking and refreshing design, will it stand out among its future rivals?

Originally badged as Scion when revealed last year, the C-HR targets the young market with its unconventional exterior styling. However, since Toyota's sub-marque announced the end of its production, its rebadging was expected. That means there’s a higher chance that it will hit the local showrooms once it starts production.

The first thing you'll instantly notice on the C-HR is its sloping black roofline towards the back. This gives the subcompact crossover a sleek, coupe-like design that adds to its youthful appeal. The bulging fender flares, on the other hand, give it a buff which complements the overall eccentric styling.

The C-HR's narrow LED headlamps are in-line to Toyota's global branding. In fact, the whole front styling is almost the same as the bigger Rav4 if not for the less chiseled hood and different fog lamps.

What we like best about the C-HR is how they managed to hide the rear door handles within the C-pillar. It's sporty – although it looks somehow similar to one of its competitors in its segment.

The Toyota C-HR's boomerang-shaped LED tail lamps is fierce and aggressive, with the bumper beefed up to complete the look. It also has a number of brake lights conventionally positioned to complete the snazzy appeal.

As for its power plant, the Toyota C-HR will be available in 3 different engine choices. There will be a hybrid variant that will be capable of producing 122 hp. This environmental-friendly option will not likely reach the local showrooms but it will be a bliss if they do.

The more probables ones to hit locally are the 1.2L turbo engine and the bigger 2.0L powertrain. The former is billed to deliver 115 hp and will be available in both Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and 6-speed manual gearbox, while the latter will only be available in CVT.

Clearly, the Toyota C-HR's styling is a remnant of Scion which was created to cater the taste of the younger generation. It's a huge step for the Japanese marque and this makes us more excited on the years to come. We're not sure when or if Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) will bring this locally, but it would be interesting to see how much it would stir up the current intense competition within the subcompact crossover segment.

For now, you can check out Toyota's full local vehicle lineup by visiting the AutoDeal Car Guide.