Toyota C-HR Detailed Review and specifications

Alright, let’s dive into a detailed review and specifications of the Toyota C-HR.

Overview

The Toyota C-HR (Coupe High-Rider) is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its distinctive styling, good fuel economy (especially in hybrid form), and comfortable ride. It’s designed to appeal to buyers who prioritize style and efficiency over outright practicality. However, it is being discontinued after 2022, so while you can find these on the used market, no new ones are currently produced.

Key Strengths:

• Unique and Bold Styling: The C-HR is arguably the most stylish subcompact crossover on the market with its coupe-like roofline, sharp angles, and hidden rear door handles. This styling does come at the cost of rear visibility.
• Fuel Efficiency (Especially Hybrid): The hybrid version offers excellent fuel economy, making it an appealing choice for environmentally conscious buyers.
• Comfortable Ride: The C-HR offers a surprisingly comfortable and composed ride, especially considering its compact size. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections well.
• Standard Safety Features: Toyota is known for its standard safety features, and the C-HR includes Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of driver-assistance technologies.

Key Weaknesses:

• Limited Cargo Space: Compared to other subcompact crossovers, the C-HR offers relatively small cargo space.
• Tight Rear Seats: The coupe-like roofline reduces headroom in the rear seats, and the small rear windows contribute to a somewhat claustrophobic feel.
• Limited Rear Visibility: The stylish design compromises rear visibility, making it harder to see out the back.
• No All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Option: Unlike many competitors, the C-HR is only available with front-wheel drive (FWD).
• Discontinued: As previously mentioned, the vehicle is now discontinued, so parts and certain services may be harder to come by.

Detailed Specifications (Vary Slightly by Model Year – I’ll focus on the last model year, 2022):

• Engine Options:
  • 2.0-liter Inline-4 (Gas): This is the standard engine.
    • Horsepower: 144 hp
    • Torque: 139 lb-ft
  • 1.8-liter Inline-4 Hybrid (Gas/Electric): (Availability can vary depending on region)
    • Horsepower (Combined): 121 hp
    • Torque (Combined): Not Typically Advertised
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for both engine options
• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) only
• Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
  • 2.0-liter Gas: 27 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
  • 1.8-liter Hybrid: 53 mpg city / 54 mpg highway / 53 mpg combined (Excellent!)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: Approximately 172.6 inches
  • Width: Approximately 70.7 inches
  • Height: Approximately 61.4 inches
  • Wheelbase: Approximately 103.9 inches
• Cargo Space:
  • Behind Rear Seats: Approximately 19.1 cubic feet
  • With Rear Seats Folded: Approximately 37.0 cubic feet
• Weight: Varies depending on trim and options, but typically around 3,300 lbs.
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Trim Levels (Generally): LE, XLE, Nightshade Edition, Limited (Exact trims can vary by year and market)

Standard Features (Generally – May Vary Slightly by Trim and Model Year):

• Toyota Safety Sense (TSS): Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility
• 8-inch Touchscreen Display
• Backup Camera
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Keyless Entry
• Power Windows and Locks

Available Features (Depending on Trim and Options):

• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Front Seats
• Leather Seats
• Premium Audio System
• Navigation System
• Push-Button Start
• Adaptive Front Lighting System

Driving Experience:

The C-HR prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The ride is smooth and well-controlled, making it suitable for daily commuting. The steering is light and responsive. The 2.0-liter engine is adequate for most driving situations, but it can feel a bit underpowered when accelerating or merging onto the highway. The hybrid version provides adequate power and is highly fuel-efficient but don’t expect quick acceleration.

Interior:

The interior design is modern and stylish, with a focus on driver ergonomics. The materials are generally of good quality. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. However, as mentioned earlier, the rear seats can feel cramped due to the limited headroom and small windows.

Overall:

The Toyota C-HR is a stylish and fuel-efficient subcompact crossover that appeals to buyers who prioritize design and efficiency. However, its limited cargo space, tight rear seats, and lack of AWD make it less practical than some of its competitors. Due to the vehicle being discontinued, you must now buy it used, so prices and availability will vary.

Recommendation:

If you are looking for a used subcompact crossover that stands out from the crowd and offers excellent fuel economy (especially in the hybrid version), the C-HR is worth considering. However, be sure to carefully evaluate its cargo capacity and rear seat space to ensure it meets your needs. Also, be mindful of the lack of AWD if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Shop around and compare prices and features.

Disclaimer: Specifications and features can vary depending on the model year, trim level, and region. Always verify the specific details of the vehicle you are considering with the seller or by consulting the owner’s manual.