Toyota commits to C-HR alongside Corolla Cross

The swoopy Toyota C-HR is here to stay, with one of the brand’s local executives committing to a two-pronged strategy in the small SUV segment in Australia.

Speaking with media at the launch of the new Corolla Cross, Toyota Australia’s vice president for marketing and sales, Sean Hanley, said the new model won’t be replacing its fellow Corolla-based crossover.

“The C-HR will feature as part of our model line-up going forward because we think they’re two very different customers and two different very different requirements,” Mr Hanley said.

“We expect when you combine C-HR and the Corolla Cross we will have double-digit market share. I think it will be very healthy.”

Mr Hanley added that the company is aiming to reach over 21 per cent share of the mainstream Small SUV segment with the C-HR and Corolla Cross, which based on current volumes amounts to just over 2000 units per month.

So far in 2022, the C-HR has averaged around 670 registrations per month and 6.9 per cent market share.

The first-generation Toyota C-HR first arrived on Australian shores early in 2017, having launched overseas late in 2016. It received a mild facelift in late 2019, bringing a hybrid option to the Australian market, and a 2021 upgrade brought an enhanced safety suite.

Further changes are due before the end of this year, with Toyota Australia confirming a range of new exterior colours and finishes, though hasn’t detailed any changes to specification. Further details are expected soon.

A second-generation model is believed to be in the works for a 2023 debut, with a recent report indicating the next iteration should closely resemble the angular bZ Small Crossover concept revealed late last year.

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