Upcoming 2023 Toyota C-HR gets a choice of four hybrid powertrains – including a PHEV for the first time
- More spacious interior than outgoing C-HR
- Self-charging and plug-in hybrid powertrains
- First deliveries due later in 2023
This is the new Toyota C-HR: a Renault Arkana-rivalling crossover that will be available exclusively with hybrid power when it goes on sale later this year. Its design sticks very closely to the C-HR prologue concept revealed in 2022 – complete with its distinctive front end and a full-width rear light bar.
In fact, visually, there is very little to distinguish the production model from its concept car forbear – both feature sharp C-shaped headlights and daytime running lights, a blanked-off upper grille, and sharp creases down the side. The wheels have a more conventional design and the rear doors get proper door handles to aid practicality.
The steeply-raked rear window remains, though the intricate lighting signature that previously ran up the C-pillar has been simplified. The aforementioned full-width lightbar is only broken in the middle by an illuminated badge, which shows the car’s name at night. The production-ready lower bumper has lost its diffuser-style detailing, replaced by a honeycomb pattern and two small reflectors.
2023 Toyota C-HR interior
Inside, the new C-HR ushers in a completely new interior design for Toyota. There’s a wraparound dashboard that flows into the doors, while a central touchscreen (eight or 12.3 inches depending on spec) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto sits above a row of independent climate controls. There’s a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, as well as recycled and animal-free materials dotted around the cabin.
It’s set to be a more practical car than its predecessor, with more space inside for passengers. We sat in a car at the launch event and while it’s still not as accommodating as conventional SUV rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Karoq, it did feel roomier than what went before. Toyota hasn’t revealed boot space figures, but claims this is improved too.
The new C-HR has been “designed, engineered, and built in Europe, for European customers” according to Toyota. The previous model was hugely successful over here and brand bosses say it “helped transform public perception of Toyota in Europe”.
Engines, range and charging
However, while it feels as if every new car launched in the UK these days is electric, Toyota is sticking with tried and tested hybrid powertrains – offering not one, but four petrol-electric options for the latest C-HR. Joining a pair of conventional ‘self-charging’ hybrids will be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for the first time – available with or without all-wheel drive.
The entry-level car will feature the 138bhp 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid system from the Toyota Corolla. Above this sits a more powerful 193bhp 2.0-litre setup, which the maker says is an “even stronger proposition” thanks to its higher output “contributing to a rewarding hybrid driving experience with uncompromised efficiency”. The two cars will get from 0-62mph in 9.9 and 8.1 seconds respectively.
The plug-in hybrid model also uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor, producing a combined 220bhp for a faster 0-62mph time of 7.4 seconds. In addition, there’s a 13.8kWh battery, which Toyota says is capable of 41 miles of pure-electric running. This results in combined efficiency of 313mpg, plus CO2 emissions as low as 43g/km.
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Toyota says the C-HR PHEV gets a “one-pedal-like driving experience” with multiple modes for the regenerative braking system. When plugged in, the battery can be charged via a home wallbox in two-and-a-half hours.
The manufacturer says all versions get the latest “Toyota Safety Sense portfolio of active safety and driver assistance features” including Acceleration Suppression, which “slows any sudden use of the throttle” when “risk of a collision with a vehicle ahead is detected”.
Full prices and specs are yet to be confirmed, though these images do suggest a ‘GR Sport’ trim level will be offered. Toyota has already released details of a C-HR Premiere Edition, however, which showcases “the highest levels of equipment and styling.” These versions get two-tone paint, perforated leather seats, a head-up display and a panoramic roof. Over-the-air updates will be possible on all versions.
Keyword: New Toyota C-HR gets concept car looks and hybrid power