Road test: Toyota C-HR
A new range-topping hybrid, with improvements to styling, quality and infotainment, enhances the Toyota C-HR’s fleet proposition, reckons Martyn Collins.
Sector C-segment Price €26,290-€38,690 Fuel 3.8-6.1 l/100km* CO2 86-119g/km**
Since launch, the Toyota C-HR has carved itself a successful niche in the compact crossover sector. Its mix of sharp styling and hybrid powertrain saw 120,000 European sales in the first year alone – with a significant number to fleets.
The biggest change is the new 184hp, 2.0-litre hybrid – sitting above the 122hp 1.8-litre petrol hybrid, and the 116hp 1.2-litre petrol turbo, which remain in the range.
Outside, there are distinctive new LED headlights and a re-styled front bumper with large grille. The back includes more LED-lit rear lights, plus a rear bumper with diffuser on the 2.0-litre model and a tiny lip spoiler on the boot.
Latest colours include the distinctive Scorched Orange, which is exclusively offered on the range-topping €38,690 Orange Edition.
The update brings a more premium feel to the C-HR’s interior with softer, more European plastics.
Toyota’s latest infotainment system now comes with buttons so it’s easier to navigate, plus there’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility too.
The Business Edition, priced from €30,790 for the 1.8, is expected to be the key fleet model, with standard equipment including 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass and Parking Assistant. It also brings NEDC Correlated CO2 emissions from 86g/km and WLTP combined consumption figures between 4.3-4.8l/100km, while for the 2.0-litre hybrid, emissions start from 92g/km.
On the road, the new 2.0-litre is a willing performer, although hard acceleration brings a less refined performance.
The driving position is comfortable, although space is just adequate for tall rear passengers. That curvy roofline eats into rear headroom, and fitting the bigger 2.0-litre engine has relegated the battery to the boot, robbing it of 20 litres of space.
The steering is precise, but lacks feel and it’s a tidy, confident handler with plenty of grip.
Changes to the suspension have seen the ride become more smooth and refined – despite the special Orange Edition launch version tested running on 18-inch wheels.
The Lowdown
Key Fleet Model
1.8 Design
Strengths
Looks great, good to drive, low running costs
Weaknesses
Compromised rear legroom and boot space
The Verdict
Welcome improvements to Toyota’s popular compact crossover lead to an appealing mix of refinement, plus tidy and comfortable drive – if you can live with the hybrid powertrain.
Fleet World rating: 4/5
Martyn Collins
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