Toyota dealers are now taking orders for the C-HR crossover, before it goes on sale in January.

In terms of size, it will compete in the C-crossover segment alongside the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar, Skoda Yeti and Honda HR-V.

But Toyota says the “stand-out design”, innovative features and efficient engines should see it considered alongside premium models such as the Audi Q2, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

Styling and performance

The C-HR has the lowest centre of gravity in its class, which makes for “balanced handling, less body roll and a more rewarding drive, all more akin to a compact hatch than a typical crossover”, Toyota said.

The C-HR is also unique in the UK market in giving customers the option of a full hybrid powertrain. This means “class leading” CO2 emissions from 86g/km and official combined cycle fuel economy from 74.3mpg.

The hybrid system provides 120bhp and means a 15% first year benefit-in-kind rate for company car tax payers.

Engines and spec choices

In addition to the 1.8-litre hybrid, Toyota is offering a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol model, with a choice of six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. The 1.2 CVT is also offered with the option of all-wheel drive.

The line-up offers three equipment grades: Icon, Excel and Dynamic.

The Icon specification includes dual-zone automatic air conditioning, 17-inch alloys, the Toyota Touch 2 touchscreen controlled multimedia system with integrated reversing camera, front fog lamps, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, dusk-sensing headlights and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The Excel trim adds part-leather seat upholstery, heated front seats, smart (keyless) entry, parking sensors and intelligent park assist, rear privacy glass, 18-inch alloys, a folding function for the door mirrors and a complement of driver assistance safety features including a blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist.

The Toyota Touch 2 with Go provides satellite navigation and access to on-line services.

The C-HR Dynamic comes as standard with metallic paint with a contrast black roof, a grade-specific 18-inch alloy design, privacy glass, LED headlights and fog lights and a bespoke upholstery fabric.

Safety sense

All C-HR models have the Toyota Safety Sense package of active features that can alert the driver to collision risks and intervene if necessary to avoid an impact, or mitigate the consequences if an accident is unavoidable.

These include a pre-collision system with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and automatic high beam headlight operation.