Toyota C-HR Is The Brand's Most Radical Model Yet: Get The Full Specs Here

The Toyota C-HR subcompact crossover stole the spotlight at the Los Angeles Auto Show this year with its radical styling, unlike any other vehicle the Tokyo-based company, known for its safe designs, has put forward before. The company is well-aware of this: the Toyota C-HR was first conceived as a revolutionary new vehicle that could pull up its sales in Europe, one of the only markets where Toyota lags behind.

In fact, the Toyota C-HR crossover was originally intended to be released exclusively in Europe, as a means to steal some star power from rivals like the Peugeot 2008 and Nissan Qashqai, according to Car And Driver. In 2015, Toyota's European Corolla model, the Toyota Auris, sold a mere 140,000 units, ultimately pummelled by sales of the Volkswagen Golf. But steadily building hype for the car made Toyota decide to release it worldwide, including in the US. 

Looking at the stylish crossover, it's not difficult to see why. The Toyota C-HR boasts massive shoulders, curvy character lines and a "Distinctive Diamond" theme, according to Top Gear, all meshing together to deliver a truly innovative look for the company. The Toyota C-HR's general sportiness is further emphasized by 18-inch aluminum wheels and extended tail lights. 

The diamond design is reflected in the Toyota C-HR's interior, too, manifested from the ventilation controls to the embossed door panels. Although there remain some signature Toyota elements, like the digital clock built into the dashboard, its hard not to miss the crossover's modern look. Included in this are a seven-inch audio display, twin-ring gauge cluster, sleek steering wheel, bolted bucket seats and satin shift knob. 

When it comes to power under the hood, Europe will receive three engine options, compared to the one that will be available in the American-sold Toyota C-HR. The three powertrains are a 114-hp 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 1.8-liter hybrid and 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the last of which will be the one coming to US markets.