Driving report Toyota C-HR: The crossover continues to polarize
The new edition of Toyota's compact crossover C-HR launched at the end of 2016 will arrive early next year with a design that continues to polarize. For the first time, there will be a plug-in hybrid; a pure electric version is not on offer. There will also be a choice of two full hybrids, with 1.8- and 2.0-liter engines, respectively, delivering 140 hp (103 kW) and 198 hp (145 kW). An all-wheel drive system with an additional 30 kW (41 hp) electric motor on the rear axle is optionally available for the more powerful version. Prices are still a secret. It should start at around 36,000 euros.
The model, which was developed exclusively for Europe and is also produced here, comes with a new front end, diamond-shaped edges and short overhangs. The side view with sloping roofline has a sporty, agile look, and the flush-fitted door handles catch the eye. The crisp rear end is dominated by the narrow taillights. The 4.36-meter, 1.83-meter-wide and 1.57-meter-high five-door model has a wheelbase of 2.64 meters and offers sufficient legroom even in the rear. The interior is clearly structured and the surfaces have a high-quality feel. The cockpit with its new 12.3-inch instrument cluster and the 8- or 12.3-inch touchscreen - depending on the trim level - is clearly laid out and all primary controls are within easy reach. It is nice that the air conditioning, heated seats and the like can still be operated via buttons.
The Japanese is also up to date in terms of connectivity, including an intelligent voice assistant. Wireless smartphone integration and a cloud-based navigation system are always standard. It's worth mentioning that the new C-HR contains twice as many recycled plastics as the previous model. These include a new fabric for the seat covers made from recycled PET bottles. The seats are pleasantly padded and also offer sufficient lateral support.
For a first test drive, the Japanese car was available in the GR Sport version as a plug-in hybrid. At the heart of the drive is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder familiar from the Prius, which delivers 152 hp (112 kW) and 190 Newton meters of torque at 4400 to 5200 rpm. It is supported by a 120 kW (163 hp) electric motor. They add up to a total system output of 223 hp (164 kW). This enables the Japanese car to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 km/h.
The standard consumption according to the special PHEV measurement method is 0.8 to 0.9 liters per 100 kilometers. Toyota gives the purely electric range as 66 kilometers. The PHEV recuperates in three stages and enables one-pedal-like driving. On an initial 76-kilometer test drive around Brussels with a full battery and many speed limits (50 km/h), our consumption was around one liter and 12.5 kWh. Overall, the hybrid system responds well to throttle commands and appears dynamic without the combustion engine immediately howling at stronger throttle commands. We liked the direct steering, which provides sufficient feedback. The chassis is taut, but still sufficiently comfortable.
In terms of assistance, the new C-HR is also well positioned with all the usual systems. Depending on the equipment version or optional, there is, among other things, lane change assistant with cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring, matrix LED high beam system, head-up display, acceleration suppression, automatic parking function, a proactive driving assistant and a steering assistant, and much more. (aum/uk)
Data Toyota C-HR PHEV
Length x width x height (m): 4.36 x 1.83 x 1.57
Wheelbase (m): 2.64
Drive: 4-cyl., 1987 cc, 152 hp; e-motor, 120 kW
System output: 164 kW / 223 hp
Top speed: 180 km/h
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 7.3 sec.
Electr. range 66 km
WLTP average consumption: 0.8-0.9 liters
CO2 emissions: 19-20 g/km
Price: n.n.
More info for topic: Toyota C-HR
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