Toyota Could Be Readying A Honda HR-V Rival For Early 2016 Launch

Bringing a compact SUV to market could be exactly what is weighing heavy on the minds at Toyota as a report suggests that the world’s largest automaker is aiming for a March 2016 launch with this new model. 

The story on Japan’s CarSensor.net makes the case for a new vehicle based around the C-HR concept that Toyota had on display at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The future Honda HR-V and Ford Ecosport competitor would measure rough 4.4 meters lengthwise, 1.8 meters wide, and 1.56 meters tall.

The report also elaborates on possible engine options which include a 1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine as well as at least one four-cylinder diesel, mated to either a CVT transmission or a 6-speed manual. They will be offered in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive flavours.

Should this future mini-SUV make it to the Malaysian market, it would be up against some tough competition from some of the aforementioned contenders in a market that is growing quickly – the Mazda CX-3 likely isn’t far off from hitting local showrooms.

Also, here's a video Toyota released in conjunction with the C-HR concept's unveiling in Paris last year.