The C-HR engine revamp

Early next year, Toyota will be introducing their new premium SUV the ‘C-HR’. Equipped with a range of features, the model will be the first vehicle in the company's Australian range with a powerful yet efficient 1.2-litre turbo engine.

The compact and lightweight turbo petrol engine generates maximum power of 85kW and 185Nm of torque from just 1,500rpm all the way to 4,000rpm. The inclusion of direct injection, a water-cooled turbo and an expanded intelligent variable valve-timing system that offers performance levels equivalent to a significantly larger engine, but with lower fuel consumption and emissions.

With engaging responsiveness and acceleration, the model has incorporated fuel-saving technology previously reserved for hybrid engines, including the ability to switch to the fuel-saving Atkinson cycle.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the C-HR has a unique character that demonstrates the flexibility that TNGA gives to Toyota's developers in the three key areas - design, powertrain and dynamics. C-HR's extroverted styling projects a confident and sporty image that is matched by a remarkable turbo engine with great response across the rev range that is not compromised by impressive economy. In addition to this Mr Cramb stated that “Combined with the outstanding handling and agility from the highly rigid new platform with its low centre of gravity, the C-HR adds up to an impressively engaging drive experience."

The C-HR includes further cutting-edge features like:

- An innovative cylinder-head design with an integrated exhaust manifold

- Lightweight valve-train

- Variable control oil-jet system

- Resin intake manifold and intake pipes.

C-HR, due in dealer showrooms in the first quarter of next year, will be offered in two premium grades, C-HR and C-HR Koba - the latter being a tribute to the car's global chief engineer, Hiroyuki Koba.

Local models will be highly equipped, including advanced safety features such as a pre-collision system with autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering control, automatic high beam and a reversing camera.Additional features for the Koba variants include heated seats, a smart entry and start system, privacy glass and 18-inch alloy wheels.