Toyota launched the second generation of the C-HR crossover in the summer of 2023, and despite the fact that the car's overall design looked similar to the old one, it was an entirely new vehicle.
When Toyota introduced the first C-HR in 2016, it actually came late to the party. At that time, there were already many other carmakers that offered similarly-sized vehicles. But the Japanese automaker used that time to create a better product, and in a way, it did that. The car was designed well, had fuel-efficient engines, and it looked fresh. It still had its drawbacks in terms of comfort, but the second generation of the C-HR solved most of them or at least improved them.
The vehicle's exterior kept the original shape of its predecessor, but the design was drastically improved. At the front fascia, Toyota installed slim, C-shaped LED headlights. The front bumper was massive, sporting the main trapezoidal grille on its lower side. In addition, it also featured a pair of fog lamps, available either as standard or as an option, depending on the trim level. From its side, the most significant change was for the door handles that were retractable and flush with the bodywork. Finally, at the rear, the raked-forward tailgate had the taillights integrated into its vertical side. Unfortunately, that led to a massive rear fascia dominated by plastic panels and a fake grille on the bumper. Overall, the car looked sportier than before, and thanks to the new color options that allowed customers to create a two-tone paint job, it proved that it aimed at students and young couples. The previous C-HR looked more like a vehicle designed for young parents.
Inside, the biggest difference for the vehicle was the 12.3” infotainment unit that ran the latest Toyota Entune system and supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. In addition, the automaker also offered a digital instrument cluster. The driving position was still the same as on the 2016 model since customers liked it. In the back, on the other hand, things were not significantly improved. Still, there were bigger windows for the rear doors, and a fixed glass roof was also available, improving the interior light.
But the biggest change for the C-HR was found under its skin. Just like its predecessor, it was available with a hybrid system but with an option for a two-liter, 198 PS (195 HP) drivetrain. In addition, the automaker also provided the C-HR with a plug-in hybrid version that put out up to 223 PS (220 HP) sent to the front wheels only via an E-CVT gearbox. Those who still wanted an all-wheel-drive version of the C-HR could get the 1.8-liter hybrid drivetrain that provided a total output of 140 PS (138 HP). This model also used a continuously variable transmission gearbox.
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