Toyota C-HR now more connected

The C-HR finds itself in a hotly contested segment. Does this refreshed model have what it takes to compete? Let’s find out.

The design

I do like the design of the C-HR. I find it to be very un-Toyota and more Lexus-like thanks to the implementation of sharp angles and prominent character lines. The new model also features a host of new colours which include Inferno Orange and Passion Red. A few other enhancements include a sharper designed front end with new LED headlights now offered on both the Standard and Plus model variants to match the flagship Luxury model. The lower front bumper is now also finished in the same colour as the body instead of black as before. The roof is finished in black and it contrasts tastefully with the variety of colours on offer. Moving to the rear of the C-HR I noticed the new bright red tail lamps which are connected by a gloss black spoiler creating a single clean shape.

What about the interior?

Like the exterior, the interior of the C-HR is also highly impressive. It’s design matches that of the exterior in that it features sharp lines, angles and an overall modern look and feel. The centre console is angled towards the driver with a new and improved 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity which enables seamless music streaming and navigation functionality. Another feature which will be well received is the Toyota Connect, which is now standard on all new Toyota models. The feature includes a complimentary 15 gigs in-car Wi-Fi allocation, vehicle telematics and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app. I also found the interior to be made up of high-quality material, soft-touch elements and sporty, yet comfortable seats also feature. Rear legroom is impressive however some might find the sloping roofline a bit of an issue with regards to rear hear the room.

Safety features

With the refresh, the C-HR benefits from a host of new safety features. The Standard and Plus grades receive side, curtain and driver knee airbags in addition to the front driver and passenger airbags. The Luxury grade model inherits a complete range of electronic driver safety aids in the form of the Toyota Safety Sense system. These are made up of Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Pre-crash system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist.

What powers it?

Under the bonnet, you will find a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that develops 85 kW/185 N.m. The motor is attached to a six-step CVT gearbox. Toyota engineers have programmed the gearbox to feel and sound like a conventional automatic which is a welcomed addition. The little motor offers adequate punch, sure, overtaking a slow truck needs planning but when the cruise control is set to the national speed limit the C-HR has no issue maintaining that. As the launch took place in the Western Cape I was faced with beautiful roads and the C-HR took them all in its stride. The ride is compliant and somewhat sporty. Toyota claims average fuel consumption of around 6.4l/100km.

Verdict

After driving the new C-HR from George, over the mountains into the Karoo and down towards Cape Town I can safely say that the C-HR remains a quality product and most definitely worth a look when considering a vehicle within this segment. It is slightly more premium than some of the other options and this can be seen in the price tag, which starts at R371 700 for the entry-level. The model which I sampled carries a price tag of R476 600 which can be considered rather steep however the C-HR does have a lot on offer. All C-HR models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km) and 3-year/100 000km warranty. Customers can also purchase a variety of service and/or warranty add-ons at their local dealership.

Pricing

Toyota C-HR 1.2T – R 371 700

Toyota C-HR 1.2T Plus – R 403 000

Toyota C-HR 1.2T Plus CVT – R 415 100

Toyota C-HR 1.2T Luxury CVT – R 476 600