Subscribe Us

Updated 2020 Toyota C-HR Hybrid revealed


There are new front and rear bumpers.
 Two new alloy wheel designs
New lights and, if you’re an I-Spy fan
The front foglamps have moved outwards in the bumper.
The big change is under the bonnet That means the 1.8-litre hybrid is the new entry-point into C-HR ownership It now uses a lithium-ion battery that’s smaller and lighter than the nickel-metal hydride battery in the old C-HR – but crucially, it’s more powerful. This 120bhp 1.8 is joined by the 2.0-litre hybrid from the Corolla. Called the 2.0 VVT-i, it uses two electric motors – one to harvest energy lost during braking, and another to power the car in full-EV mode. Total output stands at 182bhp and 202Nm of torque, while Toyota claims between 49.6 and 54.3mpg is possible. The 2.0-litre is around 10 per cent less efficient than the lower-powered hybrid. For the most part, this new version impresses.
 That extra 62bhp over the 1.8 not only improves acceleration from a standstill – it’s 0.2 seconds quicker from 0-62mph – but with an extra 48Nm of torque, the 2.0-litre is also more responsive overall. Everyday performance is strong, with the C-HR slipping between petrol and electric power – seemingly more so than the 1.8. EV mode doesn’t just kick in at low speeds around town, either; on the motorway (at speeds of up to 75mph) the engine will frequently shut off, allowing you to glide along on electric power alone. 2.0 VVT-i for everything it’s got, however, and the familiar foibles persist. Squeeze the throttle to its limit, and the CVT gearbox makes the engine rev coarsely – sending a rather dreary drone into the cabin. But it’s considerably less offensive than it is in the 1.8, thanks to its extra grunt.
 Toyota has improved refinement. On the move the new C-HR is certainly quieter than the old car, while the ride and handling are a little more polished, too. New dampers have ironed out the ride and made the car a little more engaging; the steering remains sharp and well weighted, and the C-HR drives almost as sportily as its styling suggests.
The interior hasn’t escaped the minor facelift, either, since there’s a lightly revised infotainment system – with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity – as standard. This makes a big difference, because it allows owners to bypass Toyota’s otherwise- fiddly infotainment set-up, which is hindered further by the dated graphics and a poor layout.
Thankfully, Toyota has also ditched the tacky digital clock for a more modern look. But although the interior is well made and the C-HR feels like a high-quality product, space in the back seats is still a little short of the best in class. Plus rear visibility is limited due to that sloping roofline. Key specs
 Model: Toyota C-HR 2.0 VVT-i Hybrid
Dynamic Price: N/A
 Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol hybrid
Power/torque: 182bhp/202Nm
Transmission: Single-speed CVT automatic, front-wheel drive
 0-62mph: 8.2 seconds
Top speed: 112 mph
Economy/CO2: 49.6mpg/92g/km
On sale: Now

Post a Comment

0 Comments

CLOSE ADS


CLOSE ADS