By Otsile Kadiege

Toyota’s C-HR entered the motoring scene back in 2016 with a sporty and quirky styling and was one of the popular players in the subcompact crossover SUV league. Since then the C-HR has been updated with new styling and tech including a GR Sport version which wasn’t sold in SA. Enter the second-generation C-HR which ushers in a new design inspired by the 2022 Prologue concept, a host of new tech and electrified powertrains.

Concept car design

As mentioned above, the new C-HR’s design looks very similar to the Prologue concept model revealed last year. Keen eyes will notice that the production model’s front-end looks almost identical to the new Prius. Highlights of the new C-HR include prominent C-shaped LED headlights and a large radiator grille.

In profile, the new C-HR maintains the previous model’s coupe-like silhouette, but has a cleaner look thanks to flush door handles and a properly integrated rear spoiler. More highlights include newly designed wheels with sizes up to 20-inches and a new bi-tone style. At the rear, the new C-HR sports wrap-around, three stripe slim LED taillights with ‘Toyota C-HR’ illuminated on the centre.

Premium interior

Inside, the new C-HR has a more premium design with the latest technologies and extensive use of recycled materials. Highlights include a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen (optional 12.3-inch display), a configurable digital instrument cluster, an on-board voice agent, wireless smartphone integration for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 64-colour ambient lighting, a fixed panoramic roof, a JBL sound system for high-spec models, a minimalist centre console with a dedicated ‘EV mode’ button, a Digital Smart Key (available from 2024) and sport seats to name a few.

C-HR Premier Editions

The new Toyota C-HR will be introduced with two special Premiere Edition models. The GR Sport Premiere Edition will add GR styling details, including a G-mesh pattern for the grille, new-design 20-inch alloy wheels, GR badging, “Liquid Black” ornamentation on the centre console and sports front seats with the GR logo embossed on the headrests. Its signature colour is Precious Silver in the new bi-tone execution that extends the contrast black finish from the roof across the back of the car; other colour options will be available. The equipment specification includes a head-up display and JBL premium audio system.

The High Premiere Edition has a signature Sulphur bi-tone exterior – other colours will also be available. The cabin features perforated leather seats with contrast Sulphur stitching, a head-up display and panoramic roof.

Driver assistance systems

All versions of the all-new Toyota C-HR will benefit from the latest Toyota Safety Sense portfolio of active safety and driver assistance features. The key developments include new Acceleration Suppression that slows any sudden use of the throttle when risk of a collision with a vehicle ahead is detected. Also new, Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) works at low speeds, providing smooth deceleration when the driver comes off the throttle when approaching a slower vehicle ahead, or entering a bend. It also provides Steering Assist, which recognises a bend ahead and adjusts steering force to help the driver make a smooth and stable turn.

Owners will also be able to choose an advanced safety package for their car, including features such as Lane Change Assist with Front Cross Traffic Alert, a Driver Monitor Camera (enhancing performance of the EDSS), an Automatic High-Beam System with camera control to adjust light distribution; and (where local regulations permit) hands-free driving to automatically follow the vehicle ahead in a stop-start traffic jam.

Four electrified powertrains

The all-new Toyota C-HR will be introduced with a choice of four electrified powertrains. The range comprises 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid electric (HEV) versions and a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) model. The 2.0-litre HEV variant will additionally be available with the option of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i). Toyota is mum on the power and torque as well as consumption and EV range of the abovementioned powertrains.