The all-new Toyota C-HR Plug-in Hybrid

G2L News  Low Emission Vehicles 

At the end of last year, Toyota announced the next generation of its mid-size SUV, the C-HR. When the model was first introduced in 2017 its distinctive, angular design proved quite successful in bringing the brand to the attention of a more style-conscious group of people who may not have previously considered leasing a Toyota.

If you’re one of those people, your choice has just increased with the all-new Toyota C-HR range being completed with a plug-in hybrid version.

Toyota is a sensible business, so it’s no surprise to see the unconventional design remain in the new models. The introduction of the new plug-in version now completes the line-up of the latest C-HR range.

The 2.0-litre Plug-in (PHEV) joins the recently launched 1.8 and 2.0-litre hybrid electric models in the line-up and like them benefits from Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid technology. A best-in-class powertrain combines with a fun and engaging driving experience in the Toyota C-HR Plug-in. The latest Toyota hybrid technology delivers a class-leading balance of increased power and low emissions.

The new Toyota C-HR PHEV powertrain comprises an electric motor on the front axle, a high-output 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery, and a more traditional 2.0-litre petrol engine. The total power output of the hybrid system is a healthy 220bhp, which means 0-60mph times in the region of 7.5 seconds. Usually, acceleration comes at the expense of fuel and emissions but the new C-HR has that covered too. Fuel consumption figures are reported at just over 350mpg with emissions as low as 19g/km. (But to achieve those figures you will need to ensure you optimise the electric driving range.)

A clever clutch-less dual motor system eliminates friction and wear, helping the Toyota C-HR Plug-in use less fuel compared to most competitor PHEVs. It gives the new model the responsive and smooth ride you might expect from an EV as well as an all-electric range of 41 miles, easily enough to cover the average daily distance driven by a typical UK motorist.

The all-new Toyota C-HR PHEV doesn’t just rely on the hybrid system to improve efficiency. Toyota is determined to make the most of the specific opportunities and requirements presented by a PHEV.

There’s a heat pump to support the air conditioning in winter that reduces power usage and helps improve the EV driving range. A power regeneration system that not only maintains the battery but can also provide up to 80% of your braking requirement for easy ‘one pedal’ driving. There’s even something called Predictive Efficient Drive system that can learn your regular routes and driving style to automatically optimise the car’s all-electric mode and switch between four driving modes for maximum efficiency.

When it comes to charging the battery, the 6.6kW on-board charger can take the battery from zero to 100% in less than 2.5 hours using a standard wallbox. It also comes with a cable to plug into a regular mains socket. This inevitably takes longer, but if you’re charging overnight while you’re tucked up in bed you’re still likely to be waking up to a full battery every morning.

UK models in the new Toyota C-HR range are available in three grades – Design, Excel, and GR Sport

Entry-level Design grade comes with a generous amount of specification which includes, 18-inch alloy wheels with a machined finish, rear privacy glass, smart entry, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic wipers, power tailgate and parking sensors with automatic brake function.

The interior boasts a 12.3-inch customisable driver’s instrument display, 12.3-inch Toyota Smart Connect+ with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, front and rear USB-C ports, and a wireless phone charger.

The Excel trim moves things to a higher level, adding 19-inch machined alloys, bi-tone exterior paintwork, front sports seats with suede-effect upholstery, ambient interior lighting with 64 colour settings and a panoramic roof. The options list includes a premium JBL audio system and a Tech Pack comprising a digital key, head-up display and digital rear-view mirror.

The GR Sport grade takes the C-HR in a sportier direction with exterior and interior styling details inspired by Toyota Gazoo Racing. The equipment features – in addition to the Design specification – include 20-inch machined GR Sport alloys, head-up display and JBL audio. A Premium Pack option includes panoramic roof, digital key, digital rear-view mirror, head-up display, cornering lights and Adaptive High-beam System. There is also the choice of a Safety Pack with driver monitor camera, Adaptive High-beam System with automatic levelling, cornering lights, Lane Change Assist, Panoramic View Monitor and Front Cross Traffic Alert.

The all-new Toyota C-HR is available to lease now. Given the success of the first generation, it might be worth getting your lease order in sooner rather than later if you want to be amongst the first to get your hands on one.

---

View our latest blog posts