Toyota C-HR Review 2024

Toyota C-HR At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The Toyota C-HR hits the spot looks-wise and it’s enjoyable to drive. Either engine gets the job done, but both feel over-animated if they’re pushed. It’s a comprehensive package, though, despite compromises on interior space.

+Distinctive design. Decent handling. A couple of engine variants.

-CVT gearbox. Snug interior. Quite pricey even at basic level.

The original Toyota C-HR was a big hit with car buyers who loved its looks, even though the compact SUV was a little compromised when it came to space inside. Now there’s a new model in showrooms. Our Toyota C-HR review reveals if it’s a winner, too.

There’s no doubt the second-generation car is eye-catching. It boasts an exterior look and feel that continues Toyota’s current design ethos, helping it slip into the line-up with ease.

This is especially so when put alongside the equally appealing Toyota Yaris and Toyota Yaris Cross cars. However, catch a fleeting glimpse of one and it could easily pass for a Lexus.

On the downside, the latest Toyota C-HR still feels quite compact on the inside, which was also a trait of the original model.

Anyone who’s keen to own a car with a bit of personality will therefore love the looks if they’re prepared to compromise on interior space levels.

That said, the new Toyota C-HR has rivals, with the likes of the stylish Peugeot 3008, solid Skoda Karoq, appealing Kia Niro or ever-popular Nissan Qashqai all viable alternatives.

Those wanting something less showy, though, will be equally happy with Toyota’s very own Corolla.

If you can live with the compact interior, the latest Toyota C-HR offers up a rewarding drive thanks to a wider track and tweaked chassis that feels taut and eager to be pushed through challenging corners.

Indeed, when driven enthusiastically, the Toyota C-HR can prove to be very good fun on some of our more interesting B-roads.

Less impressive is the way the two engine options, 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre petrol hybrids, meet challenges with animated revving.

This is largely down to being mated to an automatic CVT gearbox, a partnership that needs to be nursed by your right foot in order to avoid sounding frantic on occasions. However, the cute little drive shifter is a neat touch and makes mode selection a bit of a treat.

Things are impressive around town, mind, especially when the Toyota C-HR draws on its hybrid potential and car starts to feel much more measured and enjoyable.

A soon-to-come PHEV edition of the car could appeal even more to folks needing an everyday car that will be frugal to run for those shorter daily drives. 

What does a Toyota C-HR cost?