Name: Toyota C-HR Review
Item: Toyota C-HR
Author: Gumtree.com

First launched in 2016, the Toyota C-HR is a pioneer in the hybrid crossover segment. It comes as no surprise though – although also available in petrol, the C-HR has roots in the Prius’ design. Toyota is internationally known for being future-forward, and the C-HR is no different. Rivalling the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Yeti, this crossover hatch packages a family car in a dynamic, angular setting that’s sure to get everyone excited, even for an everyday school run. Lots of standard equipment and excellent fuel efficiency give that little extra push to clinch the deal.

Visit the Toyota C-HR model page to explore available cars and learn more about the model

What we think about the Toyota C-HR

Fearless design, great drive dynamics and comfortable handling combine to deliver an enjoyable drive in the Toyota C-HR.

Pros

Suave looks

Fuel efficiency

Lots of safety kit

Cons

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Boot space is larger in rivals

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CVT gearbox can do better

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A bit on the pricier side

Photo's by Automotive Rhythm
Photo's by Automotive Rhythm
Photo's by Automotive Rhythm
Photo's by Automotive Rhythm
Photo's by Automotive Rhythm

A relatively new car, the Toyota C-HR is only one generation in. But Toyota has already released a facelifted version – in 2019 – removing the petrol option and cementing the car behind the Yaris and Corolla as an all-hybrid range. Three trims – LE, XLE and Limited – give plenty of room for personalisation, and there’s a special orange edition to look out for, too.

Driving performance of the Toyota C Hr

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

A relatively low centre of gravity allows the Toyota C-HR to perform very well around hairpin bends, offering crisp handling with little body roll. The responsiveness is quick, and the manual version is a real pleasure on this front. However, it’s not an option on the sportier 2.0-litre engine. Unfortunately, the CVT gearbox version feels like it lags a little, which offsets the power dynamic, but the drive is enjoyable nonetheless. Weighty steering means the C-HR is intuitive on the road, and the refined engines ensure a smooth and quiet ride.

Safety and reliability of the Toyota C Hr

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

The standard-fit Toyota Safety Sense kit ensures peace of mind for the family car owner. Features include adaptive cruise control, airbags and traction control, which adjusts the car to road conditions like rain or gravel. It’s no surprise that the Toyota C-HR received a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP with an impressive score of 95% for adult occupant safety. Higher trims get even more safety features, including rear cross-traffic alert which helps you make sure there’s nothing in the way while reversing. Given that the engines are from tried and tested models of the Toyota brand, there’s also no issue with reliability.

Under the bonnet of the Toyota C Hr

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

The entry-level 1.8-litre petrol-hybrid with 120 bhp takes 10.8 seconds to reach 60 mph – not the fastest in the category. If you’re able to get your hands on the 2.0-litre engine that produces 182 bhp and 190 N.m of torque, there’s a significant improvement here at eight seconds. The 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine does 0-60 mph in 10 seconds. Manual transmission variants are highly recommended for driving thrills, but the CVT gearbox models might be the way to go if you expect persistent stop-start usage within city limits.

What you'll find in the Toyota C Hr

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Unlike many other cars, the C-HR has stayed true to its original concept design, which shows the confidence of the bold new Toyota brand. Except for some minor detail work on the rear end and the bumper, the 2019 facelift did very little in terms of design changes. A swoopy contour combined with angular detailing gives the C-HR an urbane appeal that falls somewhere between charming and daring. It’s unlikely that you’ll find another crossover that’s as bold with its design and colour palette as this Toyota. It definitely helps the C-HR stand out in a crowded segment, and in a very good way.

Comfort and interiors in the Toyota C Hr

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

While its rakish looks deliver some serious kerbside appeal, they do take away some points for practicality. Rear seating is generous, but the small windows can make it feel cramped – even though it’s a big car. Another niggle is the boot space, which doesn’t quite compete with rivals at 377 litres, but the low loading lip allows you to chuck things in the back without the need for much muscle. Where the Toyota does overdeliver with interiors is the build quality. Attention to detail, textured trims and the use of soft plastics are visible throughout the cabin.

Toyota CH-R steering wheel — Photo’s by Automotive Rhythm

What features you'll find in the Toyota C Hr

Our Features Rating9 / 10

Climate control, adaptive cruise control and an eight-inch touchscreen form part of the standard package. The Touch 2 media system connects to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You may have come to expect feature-packed interiors with any new Toyota, but the C-HR delivers on exterior fitting too – alloy wheels and distinctive LED running lamps are standard across all trims. On higher trims, you get keyless entry, heated seats and leather upholstery, offering a bit more comfort and convenience. Some upgrades allow you to choose bolder colours with a black roofline, along with bigger wheels.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Toyota C Hr

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

There’s no doubt that these hybrids are cheap to run, and that’s their strongest selling point. The 1.8-litre returns up to 58.9 mpg, and the 2.0-litre manages 53.3 mpg. The 1.2-litre petrol achieves somewhere around the 48 mpg mark. The best thing about Toyota hybrids remains that the on-paper claims aren’t too far from reality, especially given that these ratings all use the stricter WLTP testing method. Toyota’s impeccable reputation with reliability means that you can expect consistent performance with mileage for years.

Running costs of the Toyota C Hr

Our Cost Rating9 / 10

CO2 emissions stand at 109g/km and 119g/km with the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre hybrids respectively, while the petrol delivers 135g/km. These factors, along with an extensive safety kit, put the C-HR in the 15-22 insurance groups, allowing for reasonable rates. Toyota’s five-year and 100,000 mile warranty is among the best in class, beaten only by Kia and Hyundai. A service every 10,000 miles can be a little annoying, as it is quite frequent compared to rivals, but the returns come in the form of reliability, safety and fuel efficiency.

Our verdict of the Toyota C Hr

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

For a family car, the Toyota C-HR packs a punch in terms of design, handling and features. Add long-term savings to the equation and the C-HR becomes hard to resist for sheer practicality.

Toyota C-HR Review