LA MOTOR SHOW: Toyota bZ concept previews next C-HR

The next-generation Toyota C-HR appears to have been previewed by the world debut of the Toyota bZ compact SUV concept at the Los Angeles motor show.

The notion of a battery-electric make-over for the funky-looking compact SUV was first teased last year when Toyota committed to launching 30 new battery-electric models by the end of the decade, including what it called at the time Toyota SUEV concept.

The relationship between that concept and the current C-HR was clear for all to see, but now the bZ Compact SUV concept gives us a clearer understanding of what the next C-HR could look like.

Toyota itself describes the new concept as a “nod to the near future” and says it was designed under the ‘clean-vital’ design approach, which aims to express “what’s special about battery-electric vehicles while also offering fun to drive, exhilarating performance”.

Compared to the current C-HR, which is defined by its sharp angles and chunky proportions, the bZ concept takes on a more streamlined aesthetic with a seemingly lower roofline and longer wheelbase.

Designers say the shorter overhangs create a more aggressive stance and emphasise the futuristic look achieved by the sleeker silhouette.

Some signature C-HR trademarks like the hidden rear door-handles, heavily creased rear-end and stout rear haunches have made it across the concept – further indicating its identity as the C-HR’s eventual successor – while other elements like the C-shape front lighting signature have been taken from elsewhere in the Toyota line-up (new Toyota Prius).

The interior is just as modern and forward-looking, with a light and airy ambience accentuated by the minimal number of controls.

Would-be drivers will be greeted by a slim steering yolk like the one in the upcoming Lexus RZ electric SUV, and a high-definition digital instrument cluster that appears to be leaning against the multi-layered dash.

A bigger central infotainment display mimics the laid-back look, below which is a solitary console platform supporting the virtual gear selector.

The seats are made from “plant-based and recycled materials”, in line with Toyota’s Beyond Zero commitment.

“We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of the Beyond Zero moniker,” said Toyota North America group vice-president and general manager David Christ.

“With an aerodynamic design coupled with intuitive tech features never before seen in a Toyota model, the bZ Concept showcases another possible vision of the very near future with our battery electric vehicles.”

We don’t know yet when the current C-HR will be superseded, however, reports out of Japan suggest it will be sometime next year, followed soon after by the battery-electric version.

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