Toyota C-HR

From its "Robocop" mask to its Tron Light Cycle-like wheels wells, the 2018 Toyota C-HR is a futuristic-looking vehicle.

The interior of the Toyota C-HR, like its exterior, sports a split, horizontal element with a raided infotainment screen for better driver viewing.

The 2018 Toyota C-HR promises an EPA-estimated 29 mpg. Under Detroit News auto critic Payne's lead foot, it got a bit less.

Not your grandfather's compact. The 2018 Toyota C-HR is bristling with electronics — from adaptive cruise control to a TFT display that provides data on the car's performance.

For all its design drama, the Toyota C-HR brings little to the engine room. Its 2.0-liter, 144-horse 4-banger huffs and puffs to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds.

Compared to compact mainstays like the (blue) Subau Impreza and (red) VW Golf, the Toyota C-HR (left) sports a dramatically different design.

The Toyota C-HR's sci-fi design looks like a Star Wars stormtrooper helmet was grafted on top of a Tron Light Cycle.

Never a dull moment: The rear end of the Toyota C-HR is full of creases and details — unlike the look-alike tails of most SUVs.

Detroit News auto critic Henry Payne flogged the nimble, Nurburgring-trained Toyota C-HR across Oakland County lake country.

Everything is a sculpture on the new, stylized Toyota C-HR — even the eye-catching taillights.

The Toyota C-HR's rear windows taper to a high door handle for easy rear access.

The Toyota C-HR's dramatic figure continues in back — showcasing its "floating" roof and sculpted hips.

With its tapered rear windows and huge c-pillar, the back seat of the Toyota C-HR is a dark place.

It's not just the Toyota C-HR's exterior that's different — the compact SUV also puts a back-up camera in the rear-view mirror.