The Toyota C-HR prologue: a bolder vision
Toyota signalled its intention to launch a new vehicle genre at the Paris Motor Show in 2014 with the unveiling of the Toyota C-HR Concept. A little more than two years later, the concept became reality with a new car for the C-segment, a model that wasn’t willing to compromise and wasn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd.
In 2022, the challenge has been how to take the Toyota C-HR to an even higher level, building on its popular reputation for audacity, provocation and fun. Proof that Toyota is going to achieve this aim – and more – is demonstrated by the new Toyota C-HR prologue.
European development
The new Toyota C-HR prologue has been created at ED2, Toyota’s European Design Development centre in the South France – the same creative hub that produced the current Toyota C-HR.
Lance Scott, Design Director Toyota European Design Development, explained: “Our mission was to dig deep, to go further than we’d ever gone before. We’re really looking forward to delivering the new Toyota C-HR.”
Still a rebel, but offering more
The Toyota C-HR prologue is a first – but very real – vision of a car that will soon be turning heads on roads across Europe. More than a simple concept, it makes clear that Toyota is staying true to what made the original model such a success.
At first glance, it’s clear it remains faithful to its fundamental qualities. Still bold, perhaps still polarising, provocative and fun, the Toyota C-HR prologue displays a breadth of qualities rarely found in a single car. Larger wheels and shorter overhangs enhance the car’s stance from every angle. Although the feeling of sportiness has been increased, there is actually a more spacious and practical interior.
Precise and organic surfacing
The Toyota C-HR prologue’s lines express subtly changing movement from sharp to fluid. A precise, organic design language has been developed in which two seemingly opposing values cause surfaces to reshape and flow. This high dynamic range takes the contrast between fluidity and sharpness to an unprecedented level, while at the same time character lines are simplified to emphasise refinement. With surfaces that express both organic movement and extreme precision, the car is exceptionally modernistic, yet retains an approachable, human touch.
Its ”hammerhead” face is part of a 3D architecture created by interlocking shapes and a strong lighting signature. Grille apertures have been reduced in size and the headlights have been slimmed down to accentuate the high-tech identity. The look is shark-like – keen and piercing, with a sense of being ready to surge forwards. The interlocking theme continues through the entire diamond-cut body, creating two shapes that add emphasis to the car’s presence.
Colouring beyond bi-tone
The Toyota C-HR prologue introduces a third colour accent – sulphur, over metal silver and recycled carbon black. The stand-out tri-colour option was conceived from the start of the project.
Hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric versions
Toyota is committed to achieving carbon neutrality and providing a wider choice of electrification options in the largest and most competitive segment of Europe’s car market. Thus, a new Toyota C-HR Plug-in, using batteries assembled in Europe, will be offered in addition to a hybrid electric version, strengthening Toyota’s multi-technology line-up.
Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept
- Toyota BEV concept presents clean/vital design and uses low-impact, sustainable materials
- Designed in Europe at Toyota’s ED2 centre in France
- Modern interior and in-car personal assistant
- Concept gives a glimpse of the future for Toyota’s bZ Beyond Zero range
- Toyota plans to introduce six bZ models in Europe by 2026
The Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept has made its European debut, giving a glimpse of what the future could hold as Toyota extends the electrification vision of its bZ “Beyond Zero” sub-brand.
The concept, presented during Toyota’s Kenshiki media presentation in Brussels, is a full battery electric vehicle (BEV) for the C-SUV market, Europe’s largest segment. Positioned alongside the Toyota C-HR Prologue, it illustrates Toyota’s multi-technology approach to reducing carbon emissions, meeting customers’ diverse needs and supporting sustainability through extended product offerings.
The Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept has been designed in Europe by Toyota European Design and Development (ED2) in France. It displays a new “clean-vital” design approach that combines minimalism with a futuristic vitality. It is a zero-emission model that uses low-impact, sustainable materials, delivers dynamic performance, applies cutting edge technologies and presents a stylish appearance.
The car’s aerodynamic form enhances its futuristic look, with the wheels pushed out to the corners to create a powerful stance. Short overhangs and swept-back angles express its advanced technology content, while a narrowed-down cabin gives an agile, low-drag look. The concept model measures 4,538mm long and 1,560mm high.
The edgy styling extends to the interior with distinctive, premium finishes. There are several eco-friendly touches, such as seating made from plant-based and recycled materials, following the Beyond Zero theme. An in-car personal assistant connects driver and passengers with the vehicle through audio and lighting cues that move around the cabin, responding to requests or commands.
Through its Beyond Zero message, Toyota envisions a future in which carbon neutrality is achieved through the practical introduction of products with advanced, alternative fuel and zero emission powertrain technologies. In Europe, Toyota plans to introduce six bZ brand models by 2026. Such a diverse, electrified portfolio will help propel the company towards its global goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.