Toyota C-HR test (2023): first handling of the plug-in hybrid SUV

Since its launch in 2016, the Toyota C-HR has been a real success. It appeals to both “pro” customers (VTC, fleets, etc.) and individuals thanks to its successful hybridization and its differentiating style. A vehicle of conquest (59% of buyers are new Toyota customers), it has largely contributed to the rejuvenation of the brand’s image. In total, 115,000 units of the hybrid SUV were sold in France, and more than 750,000 in Europe. The Japanese manufacturer has therefore kept the same recipe for the second generation, which is about to take its first steps in dealerships.

Revealed last June, it retains what made the first C-HR (for “Coupé High-Rider”) so special: a typical SUV coupe look, with tortured shapes and sharp edges. The overall appearance is very close to the C-HR Prologue concept car presented at the end of 2022. Designed by the Toyota Europe Design Development studio near Antibes, it was adapted to the series constraints (aerodynamics, production, etc.) by the team. of designers and engineers from Toyota based in Zaventem (Belgium).

The new C-HR is still based on the TNGA-C platform and keeps its size contained between two segments: 4.36 m long (- 3 cm) for 1.57 m high (+2 cm) and 1.83 m wide (+3 cm). It has a pronounced receding roof, on which a unique glass roof can be attached. Equipped with infrared heat treatment, it does not require a canopy, which saves 5 kg on the scale and space at the head. The front is reminiscent of the new Prius and the bZ4x, with its snout called “Hammerhead”. The profile inherits flush handles, even on the rear doors. This allows you to enlarge the glass surface in order to feel a little less confined, one of the downsides of the C-HR. However, the C pillar retains quite a blind spot for the driver. At the rear, the new C-HR receives a new light strip across the entire width of the tailgate, the central part of which can be illuminated when opened with a new logo.

Still a feeling of confinement

On board, the atmosphere is also revised. A new central touchscreen of 8 or 12.3 inches appears depending on the finish, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The multimedia system is responsive, although the navigation display is not always very clear. Unique 64-color ambient lighting warms up the rather dark cabin. The dashboard is very imposing, especially facing the passenger who finds himself a little squeezed between the central console and the enveloping door. The habitability seems quite close to the old generation at the rear. Toyota claims that the trunk is “a little larger than that of the first C-HR in 2.0 hybrid” (358 liters) for this PHEV variant, without giving the exact value for the moment.

For this first handling, we favored the new plug-in hybrid engine of the Japanese SUV. New on the C-HR, it is identical to the Prius: the thermal engine is a 2.0 four-cylinder with 152 hp and 190 Nm of torque, and it is associated with a permanent magnet synchronous motor with 163 hp and 208 Nm of torque. couple. The whole thing combines 223 hp, and is combined with a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery (gross, or around 11 kWh net). Enough to offer an electric range of approximately 66 kilometers, the final figure not yet being approved.

Hybridization as convincing as on the Prius

During our short test session, we left the parking lot with a 70% charged battery. In forced electric mode, we were able to cover 46 km before the battery was “empty”, although there is always a little margin to continue operating in electric mode in town for a few kilometers. Toyota also specifies this on the new display dedicated to the customizable 12.3-inch digital meters. By following a simple rule of three, we would therefore obtain a range of around 65 km when the battery is at 100%.

Like the Prius, this new version of hybridization is more convincing, with an engine that “winds” less during acceleration and is much quieter. The transitions between thermal and electric are made quickly and quietly. The power is there, whether in 100% electric mode or in hybrid with more than 200 hp available. Comfort is at a good level, even with the 20-inch wheels of our test model in GR Sport finish. Likewise, the steering is much more direct than on the old C-HR, benefiting driving dynamics. The roll does not seem too significant, despite the driving position being higher than in the Prius sedan. The battery located under the rear seat helps to lower the center of gravity.

Finally, on the braking side, the system provided by Bosch is well calibrated for a plug-in hybrid. It combines regenerative braking at the start of the race and stronger mechanical braking to stop the vehicle. The transitions are more natural than on some competitors, and the system even uses three customizable modes going up to “one-pedal” like the electric ones. Note that it also uses navigation and traffic data in front of you thanks to sensors to adjust the braking force, with a relatively natural feeling. These first driving impressions remain to be confirmed on a slightly longer test, and with roads more demanding than those of the Belgian “flat country”.

Avis :

WE love :

• Efficient hybridization
• Comfort
• Increasing dynamism

We like less:

• Reduced rear visibility
• Always a sinking feeling

Our verdict:

Close to the Prius, this PHEV engine, new to the second generation Toyota C-HR, incorporates its qualities. It remains to be seen whether customers will continue to fall for its style, the number one reason for purchase, and at what price it will be offered.

Toyota C-HR (2023) technical sheet

Acheter
Toyota C-HR Hybride rechargeable 223 ch GR Sport
Version tested: nc.
From: nc.
Conso during the test (l/100 km) : 5.1
Mixed consumption WLTP (l/100 km) : 0.8
WLTP electric range (km): 66
CO2 (g/km)/mile or bonus : 19/0 €
CV fiscal power: 8
Country of manufacture: Türkiye
Warranty 3 years/100,000 km
PROPOSED RANGE
Hybrid 1.8 140 hp, Hybrid 2.0 196 (4×2 or 4×4), Plug-in hybrid 223 hp

To drive
Thermal engine: front, 4-cylinder in-line petrol, injection, 16 valves, 152 hp at 6000 rpm, 190 Nm at 4400-5200 rpm, 1987 cc
Electric motor: permanent magnet synchronous, 163 hp, 208 Nm
Transmission : traction, e-CVT
Cumulative power (hp at rpm): 223 at nc.
Cumulative torque (Nm at rpm): nc.
Batterie : lithium-ion
Gross capacity (kWh): 13
Empty weight (kg): nc.
Long.xlarg.xhaut. (m) : 4,36×1,83×1,57
Wheelbase (m): 2.64
Turning diameter (m): nc.
Vitesse maxi (km/h) : 180
0 to 100 km/h (s): 7.3
Standard tires: 245/40 R20
Test tires: Continental Premium Contact 6

Vivre
Chest for 5/2 (l): nc.
Width at front/rear elbows (cm): nc.
Rear legroom (cm): nc.
Tank (l): 43

RECOMMENDED OPTIONS
nc.

Main competitors

• BMW X2 xDrive25e, 220 hp, from €50,700
• Peugeot 3008 Plug-in Hybrid 225, 225 hp, from €46,390
• Kia Niro PHEV, 183 hp, from €39,240

Photos : DR., Denis Meunier

Also read on Auto-Moto.com:

Toyota C-HR (2023): on board the second generation of the hybrid SUV with a strong personality

Toyota Prius test: our opinion behind the wheel of the plug-in hybrid sedan

Toyota C-HR “1”: should you still buy it?