|

Toyota C-HR Prologue: 7 Exciting Design Changes Behind the Bold New Concept

ByChathura Chanuka

C-HR

C-HR

 

Toyota C-HR Prologue Makes a Bold First Impression

Toyota C-HR Prologue made a strong impact when Toyota Europe unveiled it on December 5, 2022. As the name suggests, this concept is widely seen as a preview of the next-generation Toyota C-HR, one of the brand’s most distinctive compact crossover SUVs.

The reveal attracted attention immediately. Some people praised its futuristic styling and Prius-like front design, while others questioned whether the concept had moved too far away from traditional SUV styling. Either way, the Toyota C-HR Prologue succeeded in doing exactly what a concept car should do: spark conversation.

What Is the Toyota C-HR Prologue?

The Toyota C-HR Prologue is a concept car unveiled by Toyota Europe and believed to preview the next version of the C-HR crossover SUV.

The original first-generation Toyota C-HR launched in December 2016 and quickly became known for its coupe-like silhouette, sculpted bodywork, and strong visual identity. It shared the TNGA GA-C platform with the fourth-generation Prius and stood out in a crowded SUV market thanks to its bold styling.

Now, six years after the original C-HR debuted, Toyota introduced the Toyota C-HR Prologue to show how the nameplate may evolve for a new era.

Toyota C-HR Prologue Design Highlights

The biggest reason the Toyota C-HR Prologue is drawing attention is its design.

Toyota C-HR Prologue Front Face Gets a Prius-Inspired Look

One of the most talked-about features is the front-end styling. The concept uses a hammerhead-inspired face, a design theme that also appeared on the fifth-generation Toyota Prius, which debuted in November 2022.

This front design gives the C-HR Prologue a more futuristic and sharper appearance. It also aligns the vehicle more closely with Toyota’s latest global design direction.

Toyota C-HR Prologue Keeps Its Coupe-SUV Identity

Although the front is new, the Toyota C-HR Prologue still preserves many of the core traits that made the original C-HR recognizable.

Retained styling elements include:

  • Coupe-like roofline
  • Rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar
  • Shallow rear window angle
  • Strong body sculpting
  • Athletic crossover proportions

This is important because it means Toyota has updated the look without completely abandoning the C-HR’s identity.

Toyota C-HR Prologue Three-Tone Paint Scheme

Another standout feature is the concept’s three-color paint finish. This is not something found on the current C-HR, and it became one of the details that many people noticed immediately.

The paint treatment gives the concept a more expressive personality and reinforces its premium, design-led appeal. Many observers hope this bold color approach survives into the production model.

How the Toyota C-HR Prologue Compares With the Current C-HR

The Toyota C-HR Prologue does not completely reinvent the C-HR, but it clearly pushes the model forward.

Design Evolution Over Revolution

Compared with the current C-HR, the concept looks:

  • Sharper
  • More futuristic
  • More aggressive
  • More closely aligned with newer Toyota models

At the same time, it remains visibly connected to the original vehicle. That balance between familiarity and change seems to be one of the concept’s strongest points.

Toyota C-HR Prologue vs Current C-HR Survey Result

In a social media poll referenced in the source, respondents were asked whether they preferred the new C-HR Prologue or the current C-HR.

The result was:

  • 66.7% preferred the Toyota C-HR Prologue
  • 33.3% preferred the current C-HR

That suggests the concept’s redesign was broadly well received, even if not universally loved.

Public Reaction to the Toyota C-HR Prologue

Public response to the Toyota C-HR Prologue was mixed but generally positive.

In one survey, when people were asked what they thought of the concept’s design:

  • 55.6% answered very good
  • 11.1% answered fair to good
  • 33.3% answered not so good

Positive Reactions

Supporters praised several aspects of the design, including:

  • Its futuristic and refined appearance
  • Its consistency with recent Toyota styling
  • Its unique paint scheme
  • Its stronger character compared with rival SUVs

Many felt the concept looked more advanced and exciting than the current model.

Critical Reactions

Not everyone was convinced. Some viewers said:

  • The headlights felt awkward
  • It did not look SUV-like enough
  • The rear styling was not fully convincing
  • Visibility might be even worse than the current model

These concerns are not surprising. New design languages often take time to gain wider acceptance, especially when they break from familiar styling cues.

What the Toyota C-HR Prologue Suggests About Toyota’s Future

The Toyota C-HR Prologue is more than just a styling exercise. It points to several broader trends in Toyota’s strategy.

1. Stronger Family Design Language

Toyota appears to be creating a more unified visual identity across new models, especially with the hammerhead-style front end.

2. Continued Focus on Electrification

Toyota has already explained that the next C-HR will offer hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. That supports the company’s broader push toward electrification.

3. Design-Driven Crossovers

The C-HR has always been style-focused, and the Prologue suggests Toyota wants to keep that positioning strong rather than move toward a more conservative mainstream SUV look.

Powertrain Expectations for the Next C-HR

Toyota did not reveal full production details at the time of the concept’s unveiling, but it did confirm that the next C-HR would feature:

  • Hybrid powertrain
  • Plug-in hybrid powertrain

That is significant because it shows the Toyota C-HR Prologue is not just about aesthetics. It is also part of Toyota’s expanding electrified lineup.

For buyers, that could mean better efficiency, lower emissions, and stronger appeal in markets where electrified crossovers are growing rapidly.

Similar Posts

  • |

    The ZR-V has garnered significant attention since its initial announcement

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Honda will release a new SUV model called ZR-V on April 21, 2023, which has already started accepting reservations since September 2022. It is a mid-size SUV with a practical and eye-catching design, and it shares the platform with the Civic, making it the first SUV to have the “Sports e:HEV” hybrid model with a 2-liter direct-injection engine and two electric motors. The exterior design is distinct from other Honda models, featuring a vertical grille and sharp headlights. The ZR-V has garnered significant attention since its initial announcement.
    Honda has finally released its new SUV, the ZR-V, which has a handsome face with a vertical grille. However, there are concerns about delivery times, with even the earliest orders expected to take around a year and a half to be fulfilled. The Vezel, a similar model, has also experienced long delivery times, with customers waiting up to a year. Despite this, many customers are willing to wait for their new cars. The ZR-V has a high-quality interior and is a global model, which means that delivery times may be longer due to competition for production slots in different markets.

  • |

    A bath in a Hiace See the ultimate open-air style

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Bathing in a “Hiace”? The novel “Bath Ace”! What is the fun of “bathing in a car” instead of staying in a car?

    The owner of a car says, “There’s nothing better than taking a bath in the car while looking out at the ocean!
    　The popularity of overnight stays in cars is on the rise, but it is hard to find many people who take a “bath in their car”.
    　
    　We asked Kira TV, who rides the Furo Ace, a Hiace camper, and enjoys taking an open-air bath at her leisure on her travels, to share her secrets.

    A “bath” in a Hiace! See the ultimate “open-air” style in photos

    Bathing in the car while watching the ocean is fun! says Kira TV, owner of the “Furo Ace.

    　Her favorite camper is the “Evans” by Kayworks.

    　The model is based on a Hiace wide-body, middle-roof vehicle, and features a high-quality interior space.

    　Kira TV further customized it boldly with matte paint and bumper guards.

    　The result is a unique style with a great deal of originality.

    　The “Bath Ace” bath is a large under-floor storage space located on the rear cargo floor of the Evance. Made of stainless steel, it is waterproof and has drain holes.

    　When he tried filling it with hot water, he found it to be just the right size.

    　Kira TV says, “It’s not how it’s supposed to be used, so it’s just ‘at your own risk,'” but he has already been using it for about four years and has had no problems.

    　How do you boil water?

    　If an external power supply is available, they use a simple heating device, but the one we were shown this time uses a wood-burning stove.

    　A stainless steel hose is directly connected to the wood fire, and bath water is circulated through the hose.

    　As long as the stove’s heat is stable and the inside of the kiln is kept at a high temperature, the water will be ready in about 40 minutes.

    The baths are the best open-air baths I have ever been in.

    　When asked what was the best situation in the open-air baths he has taken, he replied, “A bath with a view of the ocean.

    I like to take a bath with a view of the ocean, but there are surprisingly few places where you can conveniently park your car where the ocean is right in front of you.

    　I was particularly impressed by the open-air bath along the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway in Ishikawa Prefecture, where I was able to take a bath while looking out over the ocean.

    　The 8-kilometer-long Senrihama Nagisa Driveway is the only sandy beach in Japan where cars can drive, and he took a bath there after swimming in the sea during the summer.

    　He said he would like to continue his journey of staying and bathing in the car with his Furo Ace in search of more spectacular views.

  • | | |

    “Harrier” and “Alphard” for taxis!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Harrier”” and “”Alphard”” in Taxis? Why are sedans decreasing and “”odd cabs”” becoming OK?

    Just a few years ago, the “”sedan”” type was the norm when it came to cabs
    　In the past, the classic 3-box “”sedan”” type car was the norm when it came to cabs that travel throughout Japan.
    　
    　Recently, however, taller new cab cars, SUVs, minivans, and high wagons are also being used in cabs.
    　
    　Why are so many different types of vehicles being used in cabs?

    From the Harrier to the Delica D:5, these are just a few of the “”odd cabs”” seen in and around Tokyo

    In some cases, Mitsubishi’s crossover minivan “”Delica D:5″” is used as a private cab in Tokyo [image courtesy of Nomura Taxi (Adachi, Tokyo)].

    　Cabs have a long history in Japan, dating back to 1912. Imported vehicles (and their knockdown counterparts) were the mainstay of cabs until the 1950s, when purely domestic vehicles were introduced.

    　Even with the arrival of the personal car era in the 1960s and the increase in the number of car body variations, the basic cab model was still a sedan.

    　Manufacturers continued to develop taxi-specific models for corporate customers, especially the Toyota “”Crown”” and Nissan “”Cedric””.

    　By the 1990s, cab vehicles based on the Toyota Corona and Nissan Bluebird, as well as the Mitsubishi Galant, Mazda Luce, and Capella, also existed.

    　The 1990s saw the debut of a number of vehicles that marked a turning point in cab history.

    　First, in 1993, Nissan launched the “”Crew,”” a small taxi-only vehicle. This was followed in 1995 by Toyota’s “”Comfort”” and “”Crown Comfort,”” which were developed exclusively for cabs, and the “”Crown Sedan,”” which was almost exclusively for cabs.

    In addition, Nissan continued production of the Cedric (Y31 model, the “”Cedric Sales Car”” for cabs). For a while, this member was the main model of cabs in Japan.

    　However, production of the Crew ended in 2009, the Cedric in 2014, and the Comfort/Crown Comfort in 2018.

    　As of October 2022, you can no longer buy a new sedan-type taxi-only car.

    Harrier”” and “”Alphard”” for cabs! Why are sedan cars decreasing and “”odd cabs”” becoming OK?

    We spoke to a private cab driver who uses a “”minivan”” as his business vehicle!
    　Around 2015, however, there was a major change in vehicles for cabs.

    　In addition to hatchback minivans such as the Toyota Prius, Aqua, Toyota Noah, and Alphard, EVs such as the Nissan Leaf are now being used as corporate cabs.

    　In October 2017, the Toyota “”JPN TAXI””, a tall sliding-door type cab car, was also introduced, and is rapidly becoming popular, especially among corporate cabs.

    The Mitsubishi “”Delica D:5″” used by Mr. Nomura, a private cab operator based in the Adachi area of Tokyo [image courtesy of Nomura Taxi (Adachi, Tokyo)].

    　On the other hand, even before the relaxation of the standards, private cabs often used luxury sedans as a means of differentiation in addition to taxi-dedicated vehicles, but since the relaxation of the standards, the freedom to choose the type of vehicle has further accelerated.

    　In central Tokyo, a wide range of vehicle types can be seen, including SUVs such as the Toyota Harrier and RAV4, Nissan Extrail, Honda Vezel, and BMW X5, and minivans such as the Toyota Vellfire, Nissan Serena, Honda Odyssey, and Mitsubishi Delica D:5.

    　Mr. Nomura, who operates a private Delica D:5 cab service operating in the Minato Ward area of Tokyo and other 23 wards of the city, said, “”We have a lot of customers with the Corona disaster.

    With the Corona disaster, the number of customers was decreasing, and many times the sedans I had been using were being passed over.

    　The new Delica D:5 is a diesel-turbocharged vehicle that offers excellent fuel economy, part-time 4WD for stability in rain and snow, and a “”win-win”” factor compared to riding in a JPN Taxi. And since no one seems to use the new Delica D:5 as a taxi, we thought it would stand out and be chosen when waiting for customers in downtown areas,”” he says.

    　Mr. Nomura is also an outdoorsman who tows a camping trailer in his private life, and the Delica D:5, which is also good at towing, has been a big hit in both his private and public life.

    　Mr. Nomura says he is glad he chose the minivan, “”We introduced it in May 2020 at the height of the Corona disaster, and now sales have recovered to more than the original level.

    Harrier”” and “”Alphard”” for cabs! Why are sedan cars decreasing and “”odd cabs”” becoming OK?

    Deregulation”” was the catalyst for the spread of “”minivan”” and “”SUV”” cabs.
    　What made this diverse selection of vehicle types possible was the “”Relaxation of Standards for Taxi Vehicles (abolition of the following standards for passenger motor vehicle transport business vehicles with a seating capacity of 10 passengers or less, including cabs)”” promulgated and enforced by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on June 12, 2015.

    For a long time, cabs were mainly of the “”3-box”” sedan type [Photo: Nissan “”Cedric Sedan (Cedric sales car)””].

    　This is because, until then, the following standards were given to vehicles used for cabs

    —–

    1. standards regarding the dimensions of the seats

    2. standards regarding the width and height of aisles

    3. Standards regarding the size and structure of the entrance and exit

    4. standards for cushioning devices, vibration caused by the seat to the passenger, gap between the seat and the seat in front, etc.

    —–

    　These detailed standards have previously limited the range of cab vehicles available due to bottlenecks in interior space, rear door size, and other factors.

    　With the relaxation of the standards, not only the aforementioned models, but also compact minivans such as the Toyota Sienta and Honda Freed, and small high wagons such as the Toyota Roomy, are now available as corporate cabs.

    　Minivans, in particular, had to have some kind of second-row passageway to escape from the third-row seats in the event of an emergency, which made it difficult for them to be fitted out as cabs.

    　Since the relaxation of the standards, however, the use of commercially available second-row seats has become possible. As a result, the use of minivans with the convenience of power sliding doors and spacious interiors in cabs has increased significantly.

    The advantage of tough, long-lasting “”taxi-only”” vehicles has been lost!
    　Then why were the standards abolished?

    　According to an announcement by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, “”In recent years, vehicle safety improvements and operational safety measures have progressed, and there are no vehicle safety issues in private for-hire transportation of passengers using private vehicles, many of which are regulations that are internationally unique to Japan.

    Private cab using Toyota’s luxury SUV “”Harrier”” (previous generation model) in Tokyo

    　We asked Takashi Matsuda of Futaba System Corporation, which sells and installs cab meters, drive recorders, and LED indicators, about specific examples of this content.

    First of all, the overall performance of cars has improved.

    　In the past, when overall vehicle performance was low and equipment was scarce, cab cars were uniquely designed and built to carry passengers and provide a high level of safety.

    　For example, in the 1970s, many cars did not have rear-seat headrests, but cabs did.

    　Nowadays, all vehicles have sufficient safety features, so there is no longer any need to differentiate them from regular vehicles, and there is no longer any need to create a separate vehicle specifically for cab use.

    　Other factors include the fact that, with the exception of Toyota, the merits of developing taxi-specific vehicles have diminished for all manufacturers, production of taxi-specific sedans has been discontinued, and the number of models available is decreasing, even for those who want to choose a sedan.

    　Mr. Matsuda also asked a simple question, “”Minivan cabs offer excellent ease of getting in and out of the car, but is there any advantage to SUVs with high ground clearance? I also asked Mr. Matsuda a simple question: “”Minivan taxis are excellent for getting in and out, but are there any advantages to SUVs with high ground clearance?

    To be honest, getting in and out of a cab is not that easy. “”To be honest, getting in and out of a taxi is not that easy, because you have to lift your legs up to get in and out of the car.

    　However, SUVs have the advantage of a spacious interior, high load capacity, and good maneuverability.

    　Private cab owners who use SUVs often choose them because of their preference for practicality and driving pleasure.

    　Cabs add color to the cityscape. There may be many more oddball vehicles to come in the future.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • | |

    Surprising Evolution: Toyota Unveils 2nd Gen C-HR, Redefining Styling with Bold Changes

    ByPawani

    Discover the striking evolution of Toyota’s C-HR as they unveil the second-generation model. Experience the power of bold styling, revolutionary changes, and impressive design improvements. Get ready to be amazed by the remarkable updates that redefine the compact SUV category. Read on to explore the captivating details and differences between the old and new models

    Toyota’s European subsidiary has unveiled the new C-HR, marking its global debut on June 26, 2023. The compact SUV boasts bold styling that has taken the world by surprise. Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of this model and the key differences in exterior design between the old and new versions.

    The first-generation C-HR made its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2016. It was based on the “TOYOTA C-HR Concept” showcased at the Paris Motor Show in September 2014. The concept’s unique diamond motif blended lightness and strength, featuring a compact, agile coupe-like cabin and a polyhedral, deep-drilled lower body. This concept car’s distinctive appearance was retained in the commercial version, winning the support of users and achieving strong sales in Europe. The first generation C-HR significantly transformed Toyota’s image in Europe, with over half of the users citing “styling” as their purchase motive.

    The second-generation C-HR, which underwent a full model change after seven years, was primarily focused on European users. From design to production, it was planned under European leadership. Prior to the official announcement of the new C-HR, Toyota revealed the European-designed concept car “C-HR Prologue” in December 2022.

    The new C-HR features shorter front and rear overhangs, resulting in a sharp and condensed form. Notably, it introduces Toyota’s first “flush door handle” that integrates with the body panel, protruding only when in use. The second-generation model refines the design approach of its predecessor, maintaining the 2-door coupe-like appearance by integrating the rear seat door handles with the side window line.

    In terms of exterior design, the first generation C-HR adopted sharp character lines, while the new model exhibits an organic and sophisticated surface composition that changes continuously. The addition of 20-inch large-diameter tires (up to 19-inch in the first generation) and a bi-tone color scheme with a predominantly black rear section enhances its visual impact. The new C-HR incorporates a hammerhead motif in the front design, contrasting with the first generation’s keen look. The redesigned rear fenders and tail lamps give a sharp impression, with LED garnishes connecting the rear combination lamps and the car name logo in the center bottom. Further aerodynamic optimization from the front bumper to the rear spoiler improves overall airflow. The new C-HR demonstrates a bold evolution, enhancing sophistication in every detail.

    In terms of dimensions, the new C-HR measures 4360mm long, 1830mm wide, and 1558-1564mm high, with a wheelbase of 2640mm. This is almost identical to the first generation’s size, with a slight reduction in overall length and shorter front and rear overhangs.

    For the European market, the new C-HR offers hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. The HEV models feature the latest fifth-generation hybrid system, including a more powerful high-voltage lithium-ion battery and power control unit. Two HEV options are available: one with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and front motor producing a maximum system output of 103 kW, and another with a more potent 2.0-liter engine combined with front and rear motors, delivering a maximum system output of 145 kW. Additionally, a 4WD hybrid model will be introduced for the first time in the C-HR lineup. Details of the PHEV variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter engine, are yet to be revealed.

    After enjoying considerable success, the first-generation C-HR will conclude domestic production in Japan by late July 2023. Although the new C-HR hasn’t been announced for the Japanese market yet, attention will be focused on future developments in Japan regarding this exciting model.

  • | |

    Toyota launches new SUV “Corolla Cross” with large grill!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s New Corolla Cross SUV Adopts Large Grille and String of Pitches! Australian specs go on sale

    Front face equipped with a large trapezoidal grille
    　Toyota’s Australian subsidiary launched a new compact SUV, the Corolla Cross, on October 12, 2022. The Corolla Cross is currently on sale in Japan, but it will be introduced there with a different face than in Japan.

    Appearance with a rugged face with a trapezoidal grille! View 21 images of the Toyota Corolla Cross Australian specifications.

    Toyota “”Corolla Cross”” to be introduced to the Australian market

    　The Corolla Cross is an SUV with its world premiere in Thailand in 2020, and will be launched in Japan in 2021. It will be rolled out globally, not only in Asia, but also in the United States and Europe.

    　The appearance, including the front grille, will differ depending on the market. In Thailand and Europe, a trapezoidal front grille will be used, while in Japan and the U.S. (2023 model year/hybrid vehicle), the face will be characterized by a thin front grille and a large lower grille.

    　Unlike the Japanese version, the Australian version will be presented with the front grille design that was unveiled for the first time in the world in Thailand.

    　The power unit will come in two types: 2-liter gasoline and hybrid (2-liter gasoline + motor). The gasoline version will be available in 2WD only, while the hybrid version will be available in 2WD or 4WD.

    　Advanced equipment includes the new-generation Toyota Multimedia System, the first Toyota-branded vehicle for the Australian market.

    　This system will feature a large 8-inch touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity and Android Auto wired connectivity), and DAB+ digital radio.

    　The new Australian version of the Corolla Cross will start at A$33,000 (about ¥3.02 million) for the gasoline version and A$35,500 (about ¥3.25 million) for the hybrid version.”

  • | |

    Positive Grows for Suzuki’s New Grand Vitara SUV in Indonesia 2023

    ByPawani

    In a dazzling display of automotive innovation and international collaboration, Suzuki’s Indonesian subsidiary took center stage at the “GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show 2023,” held over an 11-day period from August 10, 2023. The event saw the unveiling of Suzuki’s latest offerings to the Indonesian market, including the much-anticipated “Ertiga” and “XL6.” However, it was the revelation of the flagship SUV, the Grand Vitara, that truly stole the spotlight. This exciting model, not available in Japan, has been developed in partnership with Toyota, marking a significant leap forward for Suzuki’s SUV lineup.

    The Grand Vitara has a storied history, with the first and second-generation models being sold in Japan under the name “Escudo.” The latest iteration, the third-generation Grand Vitara, represents a new chapter in Suzuki’s global SUV strategy. Production of this model commenced in India during the summer of 2022, and as of September 2023, there are no comparable models available in Japan. Interestingly, while the Grand Vitara isn’t available in Indonesia, its Toyota counterpart, the “Urban Cruiser High Rider,” is sold in the Indian market.

    The Indonesian-spec Grand Vitara showcased at the event boasts a compact yet spacious design, with dimensions measuring 4,345 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and 1,645 mm in height. Its wheelbase of 2,600 mm places it in the same size category as the Toyota Yaris Cross, a popular choice among Japanese consumers. The exterior exudes a perfect blend of aggressiveness and elegance, featuring three LED lamps, a striking chrome bar connecting the left and right lamps, and a polygonal grille that enhances its sense of luxury.

    Step inside the Grand Vitara, and you’ll find an interior designed with modern comfort and convenience in mind. The powertrain is equally impressive, consisting of a 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 103 horsepower and a peak torque of 136 Nm, complemented by a mild hybrid system. This robust engine is paired with a responsive 6-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Vitara offers two distinct grade configurations: the base “GL” and the upscale “GX,” which comes with premium features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

    Buyers can choose from an array of stylish body colors, including Pearl Celestial Blue, Pearl Arctic White, Pearl Splendid Silver + Black, and Pearl Midnight Black. Pricing for this remarkable SUV starts at 359.4 million rupiah (approximately 3.43 million yen) for the GL variant and goes up to 387.4 million rupiah (approximately 3.69 million yen) for the GX.

    As for Japan, the current Escudo model on sale is the fourth generation, introduced in 2015, and it differs from the Indonesian-spec Grand Vitara. While it remains uncertain whether this exciting new Grand Vitara will make its way to Japanese shores in the future, history has shown that Suzuki has introduced similar models in the past, keeping enthusiasts eagerly awaiting what’s next in the world of Suzuki SUVs.

Leave a Reply