A revamped version of the Japanese manufacturer’s small crossover has arrived. John Kendall finds out what’s new, seven years after the original model’s launch.

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Motoring journalists, who spend their time testing new cars, were never going to be the target audience for Toyota’s C-HR. As a generalisation, MoJos are mostly young and very focused on ride, handling and roadholding. While the design of the new C-HR might appeal to them, the raised seating position and comfort focus of the chassis is not likely to be their cup of tea.

Thankfully, there are plenty of other car drivers for whom other things matter more when it comes to new models. Toyota sold more than 840,000 examples of the original C-HR, launched in 2017 and they are a familiar sight on UK roads. The Japanese manufacturer says that the new model has been engineered specifically for European customers thanks to locally sourced design, engineering and production. It is the first Toyota to be fitted with flush door handles, and other features include interior ambient lighting with 64 colour options. The company also claims a comprehensive upgrade in vehicle dynamics. New recycled and animal product-free materials are used in its production, while the new model is lighter than its predecessor, helping to reduce CO2 emissions.

There won’t be an all-electric C-HR, Toyota says that the BZ is its dedicated EV range. Instead, there will be 97hp 1.8-litre and 150hp 2.0-litre conventional hybrids initially, offering total power outputs of 138hp and 193hp respectively. These are available now, followed by a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid later in 2024. An all-wheel-drive variant will arrive too, but it is not scheduled for sale in the UK.

Entry-level Icon models, as well as the Design and Excel grade models, are powered by the 1.8-litre hybrid system, with 2.0-litre hybrids reserved for the GR Sport and Premiere Edition models. Premiere Edition will be available for the first year.

The conventional hybrids all use Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, giving a claimed increase in power as well as low emissions. The new lithium-ion battery weighs some 1.5kg less, while providing a claimed 14% more power. There’s a new power control unit and a lighter, more efficient transaxle integrating the components to drive the front wheels. C-HR will cruise with lower revs on the motorway and on hilly roads than before. Adaptive Hill Control Logic can modify acceleration according to the incline.

A range of improvements should also lead to lower noise levels in the cabin. The updated TNGA platform is stiffer and lighter. Aerodynamics are improved too, with a lower frontal area. In short, there are a lot of under-the-skin developments compared with the outgoing model.

On the road, the C-HR is a pleasant car to drive. The engine is responsive, some might say too responsive as the CVT transmission will quickly raise the revs to deal with hills, although progress is relaxed on motorways. As we have suggested, the accent is on comfort and few will be disappointed with that.

Inside, the C-HR features digital instruments and a large central touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both connect wirelessly and feature over-the-air updates. The seat fabric is made from recycled plastic and ‘animal-free’ leather is used on the steering wheel. The interior feels compartmentalised by the long centre console which divides the cabin. This conveys a feeling that the cabin is long and narrow, despite being wider than the previous model. Rear seat space is a bit tight for tall adults sitting behind tall adults in the front, suggesting that Toyota is aiming the C-HR at drivers with young families or those who don’t use the rear seats very often.

One feature that really didn’t work was the camera monitor in place of the interior rear-view mirror. These need to be positioned so they are experienced just like a rear-view mirror; in other words, not needing the driver to re-focus to see what’s behind. It is positioned too close to the driver to do that and proved to be quite distracting. Luckily, it’s not an option on Icon and Design grade models.

Maybe the sharpened design, both inside and out, will lead some to believe that it should feel a little more responsive on the road. It’s not a car for cornering on its door handles and since they are flush fitting that is probably just as well.

It’s a Toyota so, as you might expect, build quality is very good and drivers will expect many miles of trouble-free motoring. Fleet managers are unlikely to break into a cold sweat at the prospect of running C-HRs on their fleet.

Model Tested: C-HR Première Edition

Verdict:

If sharp design, good specification, comprehensive safety equipment, a high driving position and good residual values are your priorities, you might want to check out the C-HR.

In Brief:

What is it? Compact crossover

How much? From £31,290

MPG? 57.7/60.1mpg (WLTP combined for 2.0-litre and 1.8-litre hybrids respectively)

CO2? 105g/km-110g/km

Key fleet model: Design 1.8 hybrid electric

Pros: Design, interior quality, decent spec

Cons: Digital rear-view ‘mirror’ too close to the driver. Not the best hybrid drive system

Seven-word summary: Stylish successor to Toyota’s strong-selling crossover

Also consider: Nissan Juke / Mazda CX-30