When Toyota revealed the next-generation C-HR Prologue concept, it would not say whether the small SUV was going all electric. Now, our spy photographers say they have captured photos of the production vehicle testing with an all-electric powertrain ahead of its official unveiling.
Spotted on the road in Europe, this camouflaged test vehicle’s silhouette is notably similar to that of the C-HR Prologue concept, which was revealed in December. Toyota’s followup to the popular C-HR small crossover, the automaker confirmed that the new model would get hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. Now it appears that it will also get an all-electric version.
Although the small crossover’s design details are all hidden under a camouflage wrap in these spy shots, its profile is all but identical to the concept’s, featuring the same roof-mounted spoiler and aggressive hood as the show car. Although the tester’s tail appears to be straighter than the concept’s, closer inspection reveals what appears to be a separate panel, that may serve to deceive onlookers.
Read: Toyota Previews New C-HR With Prologue Concept Coming In 2023 With PHEV Option
There are no close-up shots of the interior, but some of the photos are clear enough to see a touchscreen that sits proud of the dashboard, and separate from the instrument binnacle. That suggests that this vehicle will have two separate screens, unlike higher-end brands, such as BMW and Mercedes, which combine two screens into a single unit. Although this vehicle will be more humble than those, the style has been taken up by more mass market brands like Kia and Hyundai.
No official information on this crossover’s powertrain has been revealed yet, but the current C-HR is offered as an EV in China, delivering a range of up to 249 miles (400 km). The larger bZ4X, meanwhile, offers a WLTP range of up to 321 miles (516 km) for the front-wheel-drive variant. Its electric motor makes 201 hp (150 kW/204 PS) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.
Assembly of the new C-HR is expected to take place in Turkey, where the current model is made. Toyota has confirmed that it will reveal the production version of the model later in 2023. More details are expected at that time.
