Next-Gen Toyota C-HR for Europe Only is Even Funkier, Sportier
Despite posting some decent sales numbers in Canada (but not really in the U.S.), the Toyota C-HR did not return for the 2023 model year as the automaker prefers to focus on the Corolla Cross, which is much more practical and now available with a hybrid powertrain.
In Europe, the C-HR not only soldiers on but it also gets a second lease on life with the debut today of the next-generation model. Looking at the design, we bet a few people around here are jealous.
- Also: 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid: The Story Continues
- Also: Toyota Previews Future C-HR, Shows Hydrogen-Powered Corolla Cross
Largely similar to the C-HR Prologue concept that was shown last December, the production-spec C-HR is even funkier than the previous generation of the small, city-oriented crossover. Although the two-tone exterior is retained, the roof and now the entire rear section are finished in a different colour from the rest of the body.
By the way, aside from being 34 mm wider, the new C-HR’s dimensions haven’t changed that much. That being said, it can now ride on 20-inch alloy wheels, as is the case with the new GR Sport edition.
Inside, the completely redesigned dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a similarly sized infotainment touchscreen. Optionally, a head-up display, 64-colour ambient lighting and panoramic roof jazz up the cabin and add a new dimension to the driving experience.
As for the powertrain, the Euro-only C-HR comes with a selection of hybrid systems exclusively. Using a 1.8-litre or 2.0-litre gasoline engine, output is rated at 138 horsepower or 194 horsepower (same as Corolla Cross Hybrid). A plug-in hybrid variant, which can’t be had with AWD, cranks it up to 220 horsepower while enabling 66 km of zero-emission range based on the WLTP standard.
What do you think? Personally, we’d take the new 2023 Prius Prime instead. Make sure to click on the link to read our full review, or you can get LP's impressions in the video below.