Toyota targets Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar, and Mazda CX-5 market with its new C-HR

By Gerry Murphy

Toyota’s inevitable entry into the c-segment market is a distinctive, stylish car that brings a new sensuality to the crossover market.

It could just as easily sport the Lexus badge, with many design cues taken from the more luxurious sister brand. Reflecting the demands of its target customer, the Toyota C-HR is equipped with a wide variety of features and cuts a dash on the street like no other car in the segment.

Already in the showrooms, the C-HR comes with two drivetrains: Hybrid with CVT transmission and 1.2 turbo direct injection petrol engine with a choice of 6-speed manual or CVT gearbox options.

Toyota chiefs say that 70% of their new sales will be conquest sales from other in the same market and they are targeting the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar, Mazda CX-5 among other as their prey.

Aimed specifically at European customers, it is equal in size to the Qashqai, bigger than the Juke and a coupe styled crossover that has the active set, young families and downsizers firmly in their sights.

There will be three trim levels: Luna, Luna Sport and SOL in both powertrians. Toyota Ireland believes that the Luna Sport will be their best performer, and that there will be a 50/50 sales split between hybrid and petrol.

On the road, its low centre of gravity makes it a more engaging drive than many of the cars it will challenge. The interior is compact and futuristic; and while the space is compact, there is enough to satisfy the targeted buyer.

Overall, they expect to shift about 3,000 cars in 2017 and while there is a case for suggesting that the hybrid might be the most sought after, they will be happy if the C-HR and sales of the RAV4 combined reaches 15% of the Irish SUV/Crossover sales total in the New Year.

Prices start at €26,895 for the 1.2-litre Luna model with the Luna Sport coming in at €31,950. For the higher spec SOL version, there is a price tag of €30,950. Those prices are a tad above the Qashqai, but the level of specification and interior sensory quality more than make up for the difference.

Those interested in the hybrid can expect to pay €29,350 for the basic Luna model, €31,950 for the Luna Sport and €32,950 for the top-spec SOL version.

Toyota also expects to introduce an AWD version towards the middle of 2017 and while figures for this car may be limited, they think that a certain section of the buyers will warm to it being an option.