We drive the new Toyota C-HR, now also as a plug-in hybrid

The new Toyota C-HR barely changes in dimensions compared with its predecessor: 4.36 m long, 1.83 m wide and 1.56 m high, and keeps the same wheelbase of 2.64 m. However, the new layout of elements and the lower waistline at the height of the rear windows slightly improve the space and the sense of roominess. Boot capacity rises to 388 litres in the 140H version; it drops to 364 litres for the front-wheel-drive C-HR 200H and to 362 litres for the 200H AWD-i, with all-wheel drive.

It will no longer be exclusively hybrid: early in 2024 an interesting plug-in hybrid version will also be offered, with an electric range of around 70 km. The new Toyota C-HR range starts with the 140H version, with 140 CV, and a price from €31,750, while the 200H, with 196 CV, is also available with all-wheel drive AWD-i, backed by a rear electric motor that adds 41 CV, electronically managed.

Three trim levels

The Active trim is available with the 140H powertrain for €31,750 as the entry-level version of the range, and includes 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, keyless entry system, blind-spot detection, and a multimedia system with an 8-inch screen and rear camera.

The Advance, €750 more, is available for the 140H at €32,500 or for the 200H at €35,000, and adds 18-inch wheels, a driver’s seat with electric lumbar support, height-adjustable passenger seat, parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, wireless charger and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. For an additional €2,500, the Advance Plus Pack adds two-tone bodywork, a powered tailgate, PrismaLED headlights, the Style pack, Digital Key system and Skyview insulated panoramic roof.

The GR Sport trim is only available for the 200H, at €38,500, and the 200H AWD-i at €40,500, including 19-inch wheels, two-tone bodywork, PrismaLED headlights, heated Sport front seats, intelligent ambient lighting, particle ionizer and power-operated tailgate.

Greater efficiency

Both powertrains claim lower consumption figures than in previous editions of the model, 4.7 l/100 km for the C-HR 140H and 4.8 for the 200H. Noise levels are also lower than the previous edition.

The 220PH plug-in hybrid version uses a 2.0-litre engine producing 152 CV, complemented by a 163 CV electric motor and a 13.8 kWh battery, which allows an electric-only range of 66 kilometres. It features three levels of regenerative braking and a function that activates electric mode when entering a low-emission zone.

The driver’s position has clearly improved over the previous model, with a 12.3-inch display for the instrumentation and another 12.3-inch display for the multimedia system. Technology has also advanced, as the driver assistance systems can be updated over the air via the “cloud”. A novelty is the low-speed accelerator misapplication control, able to reduce throttle input when there is a risk of collision. The proactive driver assistance system is also offered, which reduces speed when a slower vehicle is ahead or when approaching a roundabout.

Good handling

The

200H AWD-i with 197 CV promises good performance, with a top speed limited to 180 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Engine noise did seem high when pressing the accelerator firmly, with a feeling of gearbox slippage while building speed, as the engine reaches a high rev range.

It offers very good handling: it moves with agility through linked bends and transmits great precision in the chosen line. It is one of those cars that is easy and rewarding to drive, as it forgives the occasional line mistake, thanks to a very precise steering, powerful brakes and suspension that, while not uncomfortable, controls body roll well in corners.

For its part, fuel consumption is low, averaging around 6.0 l/100 km, driving in fluid traffic on interurban roads and at lively paces on more winding sections.

Technical specifications of this car

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