Have you heard of the new sports utility vehicle from Toyota? The new 2018 Toyota C-HR is the newest addition of crossover SUVs to the already saturated auto market. C-HR stands for “Coupe High-Rider,” which is odd considering it is a four door vehicle. The C-HR is considered a “subcompact crossover SUV” or “mini SUV” in laymen’s terms. Mini SUVs are smaller than compact SUVs and usually have a length under 165.4 inches, (according to North American standardization). First sold in Japan at the end of 2016, the C-HR made its international debut early in 2017.
Where Does the C-HR Come From?
The C-HR is Toyota’s effort to catch up in the rapidly evolving crossover SUV market. Almost all major car manufacturers offer a crossover SUV of some type. The C-HR is Toyota’s replacement for their Matrix, Scion xD, and RAV 4. The C-HR production model was first shown internationally at the Geneva Motor Show in March of 2016. America got its first glimpse of the North American version in November of 2016. Production began in 2016 and continues today.
Show Me the Stats
The American Toyota C-HR is a 5-door hatchback. It is only available in front-wheel drive. Offering a forward collision warning system, pedestrian detection, emergency automatic braking, and lane departure warning with steering assist; automatic high/low beams and cruise control assist are also available. The 2-liter 4-cylinder engine puts out 144 SAE horsepower at 6,100 RPMs. The front wheel drive 5-seater has a 4-wheel ABS braking system. The fuel tank holds 14 gallons and the C-HR gets an EPA estimated 31 mpg fuel economy. Roughly 434 miles cruising miles can be achieved on the highway on a full tank of gas. The Continuously Variable Transmission provided by Toyota allows an impressive amount of gearing ratios.
The double wishbone suspension on both front and rear support the C-HR. The P225/50VR18 tires sit on 18X7 inch aluminum rims and comes with a Steel compact spare tire. Rack-Pinion steering gives the C-HR a curb-to-curb turning diameter of 34.1 ft.
Toyota gave the C-HR a 103.9-inch wheelbase with a length of 171.2 inches. It stands 61.6 inches tall.
Gas-pressurized shock absorbers smooth out the ride. A set of both front and rear anti-roll bars keep passengers safe and secure inside in the event of a rollover.
Looks and Sound
Clear coat paint covers the body colored door handles and the front and rear bumpers have a black rub strip.
A deep tinted glass hides wireless streaming to a 7” display screen hooked up to a 6-speaker audio system which supports USB jacks. Power rear windows, leather steering wheel, and front/rear cup holders complement this nicely equipped ride with cruise steering wheel controls and remote keyless entry.
The Toyota C-HR is a nice new addition to the fleet of crossover SUV’s available today.
Starting at just over $23,000 Toyota has priced this new vehicle to appeal to the mass market of family-oriented drivers. Nicely equipped for the price, the Toyota C-HR is a sweet deal. Test one out today.
