With its sharp lines and slashes in the body work, the futuristic styling of the Toyota C-HR fits the bill for the crossover sector with practical space for four adults and is ideal for family motoring. Designed to take on the likes of the very popular Nissan Juke, the C-HR’s extraordinarily bold exterior is married to an interior that features equally surprising elements. Most importantly, the Japanese brand has worked hard to give the driver a much more satisfying driving experience.
Coupé Styling
Whilst the coupé-like styling is not unusual these days, it is pretty unique for the mainstream crossover class. Toyota have made a big deal of the looks which they say have a ‘diamond’ styling theme. Beneath the flowing cabin profile, the lower bodywork has been sculpted to create faceted surfaces, presumably to emulate the cut of a gemstone. Car brands certainly like their hyperbolic language but there is no escaping the fact that the shape is very striking.
The Drive
For most global regions the principal engine offerings comprise a turbocharged 1.2L petrol or a hybrid power plant, with the latter boasting low running costs, powered by a 1.8L petrol engine backing up the electric motor. It is very effective. In some regions other engines are available but the excellent selection of C-HR vehicles offered by MHH Japanese Cars are all of either type mentioned here. There is a manual gearbox available with some options but most buyers favour the smooth CVT automatic gearbox.
Combining a 1.8L petrol engine with an electric motor is not new to Toyota as the drivetrain is ‘borrowed’ from the latest Toyota Prius, which also supplies the platform the C-HR is built upon. This has the benefit of giving the C-HR a lower centre of gravity for a crossover, making a marked improvement in handling. In short, the system works.
The Toyota C-HR runs smoothly, is very quiet and easy to drive but more importantly, it is perfectly capable of returning as good, if not better, mpg than a similar diesel-engined vehicle. Toyota claim 72.4miles per gallon as their official figure. There are also variants in motive power with both two and four-wheel drive available. Most drivers will be happy with the former but if a little extra grip is needed then the 4x4 will suit.
The Interior
Leather upholstery is an option in some models and four adults can seat comfortably although some might find the rear seats a little claustrophobic thanks to the shape. Rear headroom and boot space suffer by comparison because of this and the smaller windows at the back may lead to a feeling of being closed in. To add to the coupé impression the rear door handles are placed high up which is effective for the styling but perhaps not so convenient. Options like navigation and climate control are regionally dependent but most will like the smart modern driver-focussed dashboard and interior.
Overall the Toyota C-HR is a very impressive car and one recommended by MHH. For buyers in the market especially for a hybrid crossover/SUV that is a little different and stands out from the crowd this is a fine choice. The car offers a great blend of low running costs, an engaging drive and family practicality with an added touch of non-conformism.
Get in touch with us about importing your next car and we'll be delighted to help.
