The upcoming 2024 Toyota C-HR hybrid crossover, an emblem of the next generation, has been officially unveiled. Australian buyers can anticipate its arrival in the market within the first half of next year.

Building upon the unique and memorable style of its predecessor, the second-generation C-HR doesn't shy away from showcasing avant-garde design features, similar to those seen in the newest Prius, together with state-of-the-art powertrain and safety technology offered by the eminent Japanese car maker.

The vehicle's Australian debut is slated for the first half of 2024, marking it as the inaugural Toyota passenger car (excluding the Prius range) to offer exclusively hybrid power, eliminating traditional petrol-only versions.

The updated C-HR is anticipated to feature an advanced iteration of the 'TNGA-C' architecture seen in its predecessor, compatible with both front and all-wheel drive. This platform is commonly found in vehicles such as the Prius, Corolla hatch and sedan, Corolla Cross SUV, and others in the Toyota and Lexus lines.

Dimension-wise, the new C-HR measures 4360mm in length, 1830mm in width, and a height ranging from 1558-1564mm, while riding on a 2640mm wheelbase. These dimensions result in a vehicle that's 30mm shorter in length, 1-7mm shorter in height, but 35mm broader, maintaining the identical wheelbase of the older model.

As of now, pricing details remain undisclosed, although speculations suggest a starting cost north of $35,000, exclusive of on-road expenses.

In comparison, the existing entry-level Toyota C-HR GXL is priced at $31,715, excluding on-road costs, but this model lacks a hybrid power option. The fuel-efficient technology, an option in the top-tier Koba model, costs an additional $2500.

Interestingly, hybrid power contributed to 44% of last year's Toyota C-HR sales, and 70% of all Toyota models offering this technology.

The new 103kW 1.8-litre hybrid engine, identical to the one in the Corolla, will power the 2WD GXL and Koba variants, reflecting a power increase of 15% compared to the existing 90kW C-HR Hybrid.

Topping the line is the new C-HR GR Sport, which introduces the robust 2.0-litre hybrid system with E-Four all-wheel drive, equipped with both front and rear electric motors, delivering a total power output of 145kW.

The entire 2024 Toyota C-HR range integrates the company's most recent fifth-generation hybrid technology, encompassing a novel transaxle and power control unit (PCU), and a more potent high-voltage battery pack designed to "provide an optimal balance of performance and fuel economy."

The innovative design of the new C-HR has evidently been inspired by the latest Prius, with similarities noticeable in the 'hammerhead' front-end design, C-shaped LED headlights, and a sharply designed nose.

Inside, the eco-friendly theme is continued, doubling the use of recycled plastics compared to the first generation, even in the seat fabrics, which are made from recycled PET bottles.

High-end models are equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a Crown sedan-sourced steering wheel, while the infotainment touchscreen measures either 8.0 or 12.3 inches, operating Toyota's latest software. This includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, internet-connected satellite navigation, over-the-air updates, and a voice assistant.

Flagship models are equipped with an array of features such as a JBL premium sound system, dual-zone climate-control air conditioning, heated front seats and steering wheel and steering wheel, 64-colour ambient lighting, a wireless phone charging pad, and a 360-degree view camera.

Toyota emphasizes the new C-HR's environmental sensitivity, as it incorporates double the amount of recycled plastics compared to the prior model. Components include seat fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles, resin bumpers designed for efficient production, and over a hundred additional parts.

An innovative panoramic glass roof graces the vehicle, furnished with "low-emissive and infra-red-reducing coatings which retain warmth," eliminating the necessity for a traditional sunshade according to Toyota. This feature alone reduces the vehicle's weight by 5kg and adds an extra 30mm of headroom for occupants.

The GR Sport variant offers potential buyers exclusive enhancements such as unique alloy wheels, metallic exterior accents, a redesigned front grille pattern, GR Sport emblems both inside and out, seat headrests with GR embossing, red interior highlights and contrasting stitching, and a GR-branded steering wheel.

More specific Australian specifications and details of the 2024 Toyota C-HR hybrid crossover will be divulged as its launch draws closer. For the latest updates, keep your eyes on Yeecar.