Toyota Motor Corp (ADR) (NYSE:TM) has reported the price tags for the C-HR, its new tiny crossover.
The price
The entry-level XLE trim will start at $23,460 including shipping charges. The more feature-packed XLE premium starts at $25,310 with shipping. The two versions will be available in April at Toyota dealerships. The lower trim levels such as Le and L will not make it to the C-HR for now. Besides the two trim levels, the R-Code two-tone model is another twist to the C-HR family. It comes with white paint on the roof, A-pillar and side mirrors. Its color is exclusively Radiant Green Mica. It is available at an extra cost of $500 with either XLE or XLE Premium trim.
Features of the models
Every CH-R, regardless of trim, comes with a 7 inch infotainment display, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, standard 18 inch alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel and a dual zone climate control. All C-HR are equipped with high standard safety features including full range radar cruise control, pre-collision system enable with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert with steering aid. General manager of the Toyota division, Bill Fay commented that the models were motivated by the need to maintain the youthful glow of value, Scion looks and price.
Increased demand for the crossovers
Last year, Scion closed down with total sales of around one million vehicles since its launch in 2003. 70% of buyers were new customers. More than 50% were 35 years old or younger. The arrival of C-HR in the market is timely as the demand for small crossovers is increasing particularly in the U.S. In the first two months, sales of the subcompact crossovers increased by 17% to a total of 76,067 vehicles.
C-HR competitors
The competitors of C-HR include Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-v and the Nissan Juke. Despite its top of class standard, it may face challenges justifying its cost in the market. The Nissan Juke is selling at $21,190 and the Mazda CX-3 at $20,900 starting price. Honda HR-V is starting at $19,465. Another classy crossover type of vehicle is Kia Soul and it going for as little as $16,995.
