Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3, the amazing race

The small crossover Toyota C-HR has officially entered the race with two compatriots Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 with a starting price of 28,000 USD.

Announced for production in March 2016, Toyota's most anticipated crossover has arrived in the UK market in three versions: C-HR Icon, Excel and Dynamic, priced from £20,995 to £27,995, equivalent to £28,000 - £37,600. Compared to its competitors, the Toyota C-HR is a bit more expensive, while the Honda HR-V is priced from £18,495 - £24,305, while the Mazda CX-3 in the US is selling for £19,960, equivalent to £14,860.

The C-HR has three powertrain options: The top-of-the-line version is equipped with a Hybrid system similar to its “big brother” Prius, with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with an Atkinson combustion cycle and 40% thermal efficiency, producing a maximum capacity of 124 horsepower and emitting less than 90 g/km of CO2. According to Toyota, this is the lowest emission level in the segment.

The second option is a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine from the Auris hatchback, producing a maximum capacity of 120 horsepower and a maximum torque of 185 Nm. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission (with FWD) or CVT (optional FWD or AWD). Finally, the 2.0-liter petrol engine with CVT transmission has a capacity of 147 horsepower and a torque of 187 Nm, currently available on the Corolla Altis.

Developed on Toyota's new TNGA platform, the C-HR is 4,350 mm long, 1,795 mm wide, 1,550 mm high and has a wheelbase of 2,640 mm, with a distinctive and sporty appearance. The overall appearance exudes a strong, muscular look thanks to the cuts and sinewy folds running from front to back. The front end impresses with a very thin grille harmoniously connected with sharp, elongated headlights. The sides stand out with stylized Y-shaped 5-spoke wheels, while the rear has boomerang-shaped taillights, a spoiler and a shark fin antenna.

Inside, Toyota aimed to create a cabin that was both modern and “sensual,” on a different level from other models in the segment. Many flowing curves were applied to the design, especially the center console, with a 6.1-inch touchscreen that is angled toward the driver. In addition, Toyota focused on consistency between texture, shape, color and lighting, even paying attention to the stitching on the seats.

Launched later and priced higher, Toyota C-HR will certainly face a significant disadvantage in the upcoming battle with Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. However, with a new design language and advanced technology, different from previous products, the price that the Japanese automaker offers for C-HR does not surprise many people. This is considered a representative of the direction of promoting technical innovation, eye-catching design and driving pleasure to target young customers and those who love trendy fashion styles that Toyota will pursue in the near future.

According to ThanhNien