Eye-catching design has been a key part of the Toyota’s C-HR’s appeal since the compact SUV first launched in 2017 and the recently released second-generation continues that legacy with its dramatic concept car looks.
Arguably the most distinctive aspect of the new C-HR is Toyota’s ‘Hammerhead’ front-end design, which recently debuted on the brand’s bZ4X EV.
Elsewhere, the accentuated rake of the rear screen with integrated spoiler creates a dynamic, coupe-like stance, with slick recessed door handles create a smooth side view.
The three-variant range comprises GXL, Koba and GR Sport with prices starting at $42,990 (MRLP) for the entry-level GXL, stepping up sharply to $49,990 for the mid-spec Koba, and on to a hefty $54,990 for the all-wheel drive GR Sport.
The new model rides on the same wheelbase as its predecessor, which means there’s no more interior space, but it looks more dynamic thanks to a shorter front overhang and wider wheel tracks, which combine to lend it a nicely planted and cohesive appearance.
Significantly, where the old model came with a 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol and a 1.8-litre hybrid version, the new range is hybrid only.
The front-wheel-drive GXL and Koba are powered by an improved version of the 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol hybrid which is claimed to be 14% more powerful and 7% more fuel efficient than its predecessor, sipping unleaded at an impressively thrifty 4 litres/100km.
In keeping with its adoption of Toyota’s sporty ‘Gazoo Racing’ badge, the top-spec GR Sport features a larger capacity 2L petrol hybrid with dual-motor E-Four all-wheel drive system.
The petrol engine produces 112kW/188Nm, which combines with 83kW/206Nm front and 30kW/84Nm rear electric motors, for combined system outputs of 146kW.
Toyota doesn’t publish combined torque outputs for its hybrids but fuel consumption is an impressive 4.1L/100km.
The attractively designed interior features a driver-centric layout with 12.3-inch multi-view digital dash ahead of the driver and a 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen.
Boot space is a modest 388 litres in the FWD models, reducing to 362-litres in the GR Sport thanks to its dual motor AWD system.
The generous standard equipment list of the Koba and GR Sport variants includes 19-inch alloy wheels, auto-leveling bi-LED headlamps with adaptive high beam, LED foglamps, a powered tailgate, premium gloss black exterior accents and privacy glass for the rear and rear side windows.
Also included is a colour head-up display, wireless smartphone charger, and a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system.
Key stats: Toyota C-HR GR Sport MY24
Price: $54,990 (MRLP)
Powertrain: 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol (112kW/188Nm), series parallel hybrid, dual-electric-motor all-wheel drive system, (83kW/206Nm(F)/ 30kW/84Nm(R), combined system outputs 146kW, CVT transmission.
ANCAP crash rating: Not Rated
Fuel consumption (Combined Cycle): 4.1L/100km (94g/km CO2)
For: Striking looks, nicely appointed, quality finishes, good safety and connectivity.
Against: High price, snug cabin, firm ride, modest boot space, no full spare wheel (tyre repair kit).
Price: $54,990 (MRLP)
Powertrain: 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol (112kW/188Nm), series parallel hybrid, dual-electric-motor all-wheel drive system, (83kW/206Nm(F)/ 30kW/84Nm(R), combined system outputs 146kW, CVT transmission.
ANCAP crash rating: Not Rated
Fuel consumption (Combined Cycle): 4.1L/100km (94g/km CO2)
For: Striking looks, nicely appointed, quality finishes, good safety and connectivity.
Against: High price, snug cabin, firm ride, modest boot space, no full spare wheel (tyre repair kit).
Out on the road, the C-HR is not an overly sporty drive, even in top-spec GR Sport trim.
Performance is more spirited than the 1.8-litre but it’s not the sort of vehicle that will rouse the blood of an enthusiast driver.
The updated CVT transmission offers Normal, Eco and Sports modes and while its performance is improved over previous iterations, it still has that distinctive elastic-band feel under strong acceleration.
NVH is well controlled, though, and the engine isn’t overly intrusive, even when being worked hard.
The AWD system feels sure-footed and balanced through the bends with braking performance on the GR Sport enhanced by the fitment of larger diameter ventilated front discs with twin-piston calipers. Like its predecessor the second-generation Toyota C-HR is very much a heart-over-head purchase.
It’s a Sport Utility Vehicle without a great deal of utility, thanks to its compact dimensions, and a car people will buy simply because they love the way it looks, and because beneath the eye-catching skin are tried and proven Toyota hybrid mechanicals.