Toyota is considering a performance version of its recently revealed C-HR crossover. The new model, which has been mooted by C-HR lead engineer Hiro Koba, would act as a rival to the likes of the Nissan Juke Nismo and allow Toyota to compete in the emerging and profitable market for hot crossovers.
Speaking to our sister publication Autocar UK, Koba admitted that a performance C-HR wasn’t “concretely” in Toyota’s plans, but he is pushing to get approval to develop such a car.
Toyota senior manager, Rembert Serrus added: “The car lends itself to it. It would be possible, but it depends on how much we have to change. A sports version could be a minor change or it could be a new project. A sports version would make a lot of sense.”
Koba has already piloted a racing version of the C-HR and it’s known that the car will compete at the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance event next month. It is understood that the public's reaction to that car will heavily inform the business case for producing a performance version of the road-going C-HR.
The racing C-HR is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with around 180.46hp. A similar engine could well be used in the production version and Koba has hinted he’d like to see more powerful variants of the C-HR. Some of the racing car’s less obtrusive aerodynamic bodywork could also be carried over. It is also highly likely that any performance version of the C-HR would also include uprated brakes and suspension, as well as a heavier steering and a modified interior.