Toyota’s new B-segment SUV to debut at 2020 Geneva Motor Show

KUALA LUMPUR: Toyota has released a teaser of a new B-segment SUV showing the rear section of the SUV, which is set to debut at the upcoming 2020 Geneva Motor Show, with illuminated taillights, Hybrid and AWD emblems and Toyota logo in the centre. The automaker previously revealed that they are planning to launch a new SUV positioned below the C-HR. Who would’ve thought of seeing it in full this soon? 

While the details are not evident at the moment, what we possibly know is that it’s an SUV with raised ground clearance and will come with an all-wheel-drive system and Toyota’s hybrid powertrain. It will be a blend of “Toyota’s extensive small car experience with its strong SUV heritage.” 

Looking at the sketch, it seems that the SUV will have slim taillights, a rakish rear window and will be sharper rather than angular as previewed in a previously-released teaser. The teaser sketch released before also showed a kink near the C-pillar and squared-off wheel arches. 

The hybrid version would a combination of 1.5-litre M15A three-cylinder engine and Toyota’s Hybrid System II (THS II), mated to either a 6-speed manual or a direct shift-CVT, according to some earlier reports. 

Also, the hybrid version might be on offer in E-Four (electric all-wheel-drive) or front-wheel-drive options. This is also the same powertrain that can be seen on the Yaris. Like the fourth-gen Yaris, the new SUV will be underpinned by the TNGA-B platform. Another option is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder that would be coupled with a Super CVT-i transmission.

Toyota’s new B-segment SUV will be a rival to models like the Honda HR-V, Renault Captur, Nissan Juke, and the Mazda CX-3. We are looking forward to the auto extravaganza in March where the Japanese automaker will be unfolding the SUV. Stay tuned with us for more related updates.

Also Read: Toyota releases official images of 2020 Yaris Hybrid