New-gen Toyota C-HR gets sharper styling and plug-in hybrid option
Toyota has unveiled its second-generation C-HR crossover, which gains bolder styling and a new plug-in hybrid option alongside a range of full hybrids.
The original C-HR launched in 2016 with a dramatic, sharp-edged design that helped transform both the European C-SUV segment and the public perception of the Toyota brand.
The new model builds on this success with a radical design taken from the C-HR Prologue concept revealed in December 2022 and tailored to create the idea of a “a concept car on the road”.
The frontal styling bears the new face for Toyota SUVs, seen also on the all-electric bZ4X, while the C-HR also carries coupé-like lines with flush door handles – a first for the brand – emphasised by a new style of bi-tone paint design and finished off with large wheels, up to 20-inch diameter.
The interior has also been overhauled, gaining more premium and recycled materials, including a new seat upholstery fabric from recycled PET bottles, plus latest technologies.
Depending on the trim, the C-HR gets a new 12.3-inch driver display and an 8.0- or 12.3-inch touchscreen, featuring onboard voice agent and wireless smartphone connection via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Toyota’s MyT smartphone app enables remote control of vehicle functions, including activating the air conditioning/heating in advance of a journey. An automatic parking function will be available and an app will enable fully remote parking. The C-HR will also be available with a digital key system, enabling drivers to access and start the vehicle using only their phone.
Powertrain line-up features the brand’s familiar 1.8- and 2.0-litre full hybrid versions and a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid – a first for the C-HR and enabling longer electric range.
The full hybrids use latest fifth-generation Toyota technology. The 1.8-litre, seen in the Corolla, delivers 140hp of power and front-wheel drive while the 2.0-litre has an 198hp output; up significantly on the current C-HR. The larger hybrid will also be available in all-wheel drive in selected markets.
The new plug-in hybrid adds in a larger battery to offer up to 41 miles electric-only while also upping power to 223hp. It also features a ‘one-pedal’ driving mode with three operating levels, while a new geofencing function will be available in selected markets and will automatically switch to EV operation when the car enters a low emission zone (LEZ).
Suspension, brakes and steering have also been redesigned, giving more agile, responsive handling.
All models will get the latest Toyota Safety Sense portfolio of active safety and driver assistance features. New developments include Acceleration Suppression, which slows any sudden use of the throttle when risk of a collision with a vehicle ahead is detected. A Proactive Driving Assist also debuts; this works at low speeds, providing smooth deceleration when the driver comes off the throttle when approaching a slower vehicle ahead, or entering a bend. It also enables Steering Assist, which recognises a bend ahead and adjusts steering force to help the driver make a smooth and stable turn.
A safety pack will also be available on certain grades, adding in features such as Lane Change Assist with Front Cross Traffic Alert, a Driver Monitor Camera, an Adaptive High-beam System with camera control to adjust light distribution; and hands-free driving for markets where this is allowed.
UK model line-up and specifications are still be announced. Prices are expected to start at around £35,000.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.
