2020 Toyota C-HR GR Sport unveiled, unlikely to come soon in Australia

In a run to increase the appeal of its C-HR crossover, Toyota has come up with an upgraded version for Europe and North America markets recently. And now it is Japan's turn to get more sporty and sharp Toyota C-HR. The firm has already showcased the new lineup of GR Sport add-ons for the new C-HR, but it will be sold only in the domestic market.

On the exterior, the 2020 Toyota C-HR GR Sport displays a new front bumper integrating a massive lower grille with a horizontal bar, 'GR Sport' badging, front fenders, larger alloy wheels and brakes, and a sports steering wheel lifted from the 86 sports car. The model is offered in 11 colour choices including 5 two-tone schemes with black-painted roof and A-pillars. For better handling and smooth drive, the adjustments are made to suspension and steering. 

Under the bonnet, the crossover has not received any upgrade. The engine options include turbo petrol and petrol-electric hybrid. The 1.2-litre turbocharged four mated with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic has the capacity to produce 114 PS of power and 185 Nm of torque. And, the hybrid variant includes a 1.8-litre petrol unit produces 96 PS of power and 142 Nm of torque and the electric motor produces 71 PS of power and 163 Nm of torque.

The Toyota C-HR GR Sport price for the base trim starts at ¥2,732,000 ($36,682) in Japan. The sporty upgrades will be available in Japan only, and nothing can be commented on the expected arrival in Australia for now.

In this context, the company officials said, "At this stage, it is not immediately on our radar, in a similar way to the TRD Camry or Corolla GR Sport available overseas.''

"We would not rule it out, however, our current focus remains on vehicles with a significant level of performance improvement as a priority. We will study the introduction of vehicles with cosmetic and handling related changes as a secondary priority at this stage."

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