Toyota FT-HT Concept: Chinese Tarago?

China is becoming increasingly important to carmakers -- Toyota's FT-HT concept car is a case in point.

Designed exclusively for the Chinese market -- the biggest new car market in the world -- the six-seater FT-HT concept previews a contemporary take on the classic Tarago; and the concept wouldn’t look out of place as a production model on European roads.

As you can see from the images and video, Toyota's new Tarago-sized people-mover borrows styling cues from the company's prestige brand Lexus, with a prominent front grille, smooth roofline and Mazda CX-7-inspired silhouette.

While the LED lights are likely to make the transition to production, the rear suicide doors don't look a strong prospect to make it past the Shanghai motor show exhibit perimeter.

The new hybrid vehicle is aimed at young families, says Toyota, with modular seating allowing for easy loading of bulky goods, such as a pram/stroller or baby seat.

As well as a premium interior fit out -- velour seats, plush pile carpet, a glass roof and advanced instruments and technology integration -- the Toyota FT-HT concept's front passenger seat can swivel 180 degrees to allow for a lounge room ambience when stationary.

Originally shown at the Shanghai motor show in April, the FT-HT concept measures almost 4.8 metres, considerably longer than the 4.5 metre Kia Rondo.

To compare concept apples with production apples, the 4770mm FT-HT is only slightly shorter than the 4795mm Toyota Tarago people mover, which is currently sold in Australia for between $48,990 and $71,490.

It remains to be seen if the new Chinese-market FT-HT will have an influence on the design of the next generation Tarago. What do you think of the new design? Have your say in the comments below.