Toyota C-HR GR Sport (2024) Review

An important moment for Toyota: the second generation of the successful C-HR makes its debut. The original was introduced in 2017 as a sort of leg-up alternative to the Auris/Corolla, complete with funky looks. It was usually one of those examples that made you think: no, are they serious? And which later achieved sales success after sales success and gained the brand countless new customers.

The new C-HR continues the unique line of its predecessor in terms of design. There are now more options within the Toyota range, such as the Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross; but they are bold, more focused on functionality than unique architecture. The brand says that the special C-HR still has the right to exist alongside these cars. Perhaps this is based in part on the continued popularity of short haircuts.

Toyota CH-R’s outstanding looks and performance

But let’s face it: just as the new Prius looks 28 times better than its predecessor, the C-HR has also been significantly revised. Rear-mounted door handles, well-processed light units, strong and angular lines, attractive two tones versions – this is a stable structure. According to Toyota, it also has the best aerodynamics in its class. Furthermore, it should be tough, light, stable and improved in almost every other measurable and non-measurable area.

Toyota is offering the new C-HR as a plug-in hybrid for the first time. We tested an example of this a few months ago. Today we are driving the plug-in hybrid Toyota CH-R GR Sport with a 2.0 liter engine. There is also a 1.8, but it has 60 hp less and a price advantage of only 2,000 euros (starting price: 37 grand and less), so we would know.

The C-HR 2.0 makes good use of its extra power: after a standstill at start-up, it accelerates, with the stepless transmission making the engine whine in no time. During normal traffic, where we ignore all driving tricks, our C-HR always records between 65 and 70 percent electric driving time. And if we do our best, we arrive at a consumption of 5.2 l/100 km. Yes, Toyota has figured out that hybrid trick.

The Toyota C-HR GR Sport is not an amazing space

The front seat is quite high and spacious, but the back remains mildly claustrophobic. The fact that our version’s interior is black on black doesn’t help, despite the large roof made of strong heat-resistant glass. The outside view is better than with the old car.

The chassis leans towards sports; Our expensive test car is also equipped with FSD (Frequency Selective Damping), which effectively controls the bodywork in curves and continuous rough road surfaces. It’s standard on all PHEVs and HEVs with 20-inch wheels, and it completes the car’s direct and pleasant way to adapt to your driving needs.

Keep the instruction manual handy

In general, Toyota C-HR GR Sport looks already and you feel closed with the interior, which immediately gives a different impression. excitement then gives it to other competitors. The fact that Toyota can also make quite a few mistakes is evident from the interaction with the infotainment, and especially by adjusting or turning off the driving aids.

Instead of the main screen, you have to struggle through complicated lists and incomprehensible abbreviations on the counter display – every time after starting. The question is whether the intended audience will be able and willing to deal with this, although we suspect that looking at the ‘ten-year warranty’ sticker will more than make up for it.