Toyota Reveals the Shockingly Concept-Like C-HR

When the Scion C-HR debuted, which eventually became the Toyota C-HR, it showed a wilder, more adventurous side of the automaker. With that wild look came lots of doubt that the production version would look anything similar to the concept. Well, I can now eat crow, as the 2018 Toyota CH-R is a near carbon copy of the concept that preceded it.

» Related: Toyota Facing Huge Truck Frame Legal Settlement

The C-HR’s style is unprecedented in Toyota’s lineup and even makes the funky Nissan Juke, which also happens to be its only real competitor, look like a typical crossover. The coupe-like roofline, while inconvenient for taller rear passengers and cargo hauling, gives this crossover a sporty silhouette, while its hard angles, boomerang taillights, and standard 18-inch wheels seal the deal.

Inside, the looks are a tad more timid, but still aggressive for a Toyota. The C-HR’s cabin boasts diamond accents on the soft-touch materials, climate controls, speaker surrounds, and headliner, adding a sense of style that is unlike most Toyotas. The slightly angled dash adds a bit of a driver-centric feel and the 7-inch audio display perched atop it gives the C-HR a futuristic touch without going overboard.

While the looks scream sporty, the powertrain leaves a lot to be desired. The 2018 C-HR will carry a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces just 144 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque, putting it well below the Juke’s 188 horsepower. There is a chance that Toyota is still working on a more powerful version of the C-HR, but this will likely be the only powerplant available at launch.

Also depressing is its standard continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive isn’t even an option, yet).

Cornering may be a bit surprising, though, as Toyota fitted the C-HR with a sportier-than-average chassis. It includes an all-new double-wishbone rear suspension, SACHS dampers, a large-diameter stabilizer bar, and more. Also indicating its sport-tuned suspension is the standard G-force meter.

Pricing will come as we approach the 2018 CH-R’s spring 2017 launch. Stay tuned!