2024 Toyota C-HR: your questions answered
Meet the all-new, 2024 Toyota C-HR. Designed, engineered and built exclusively in Europe for European customers, we think our next-generation C-SUV model takes the quality and status of its predecessor to a higher level. It does this with avant-garde design, advanced technologies and a range of electrified powertrains that offer increased power, driveability and all-electric capabilities.
Allow us to explain why we know this to be the case by answering the following handful of need-to-know questions before the model’s launch.
Does the new 2024 Toyota C-HR still offer standout design?
Absolutely! The original Toyota C-HR broke the mould among SUVs with a dramatic, sharp-edged design inspired by contemporary sports coupes. Interestingly, the model accumulated more conquest sales in Europe than any other Toyota, and the majority of customers cited the car’s styling as their principal reason for purchase. That strong emotional connection is taken to the next level in the second-generation Toyota C-HR, which is also designed to stand out, not blend in.
Its distinctive design is faithful to the prologue concept revealed late last year. The 2024 Toyota C-HR presents the latest interpretation of our new SUV face, displaying a keen and piercing frontal treatment that gives the impression of the model being ready to surge forwards. The interlocking, jewel-like shapes along the sides add character to its super-coupe profile, while this dynamic, poised look is strengthened by short overhangs, extended bi-tone paintwork and the availability of 20-inch diameter wheels.
The new Toyota C-HR is notable for being our first model with flush-mounted door handles. And this seamless, aero-honed look continues with tighter shut lines, artfully concealed cameras and parking sensors, and precise profiling of the rear roof spoiler.
How does this design flair carry through into the interior?
The original Toyota C-HR marked a leap forward in sensory quality. But the new model goes much further by delivering a thoughtfully choreographed welcoming procedure that brightens the exterior illumination and adopts the driver’s preferred seating and display settings before they enter the cabin.
Once inside, the premium interior looks and feels even more refined. All control elements are concentrated in the driver’s zone, while a horizontal instrument panel arrangement and a ‘wing’ design theme give passengers the sense of the cabin wrapping around them. An enhanced ambient lighting system is adopted for the first time to subtly reflect changes in cabin temperature, and the passing of time, and even to help inform passengers whether it is safe to open the door and exit the vehicle.
What will the infotainment system be like in the 2024 Toyota C-HR?
According to model grade, the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia package features either an eight- or 12.3-inch touchscreen, onboard voice agent and wireless smartphone connection via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The system will provide EV range information and local charging locations in its Point of Interest (POI) function
Owners will also be able to use our MyT smartphone app for remote control of key vehicle functions, including operating the air conditioning system to heat or cool the car before making a journey.
The new Toyota C-HR’s high level of innovation and technology includes a unique-in-class automatic parking function. Although UK availability is yet to be confirmed, fully remote operation through a smartphone app will allow the driver to manoeuvre the vehicle into tight parking spaces.
How safe is the new car?
All versions of the new 2024 Toyota C-HR will benefit from the latest suite of Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance features. For added convenience, future software updates within this system can be automatically delivered over the air, so there is no need to arrange for updates to be applied by a retailer.
Key developments within the safety portfolio include Acceleration Suppression, a system that reduces any sudden use of the throttle when the system detects a collision risk with a vehicle immediately ahead. Also new is Proactive Driving Assist, which works at low speeds to smooth deceleration when the driver comes off the throttle before entering a bend or approaching a slower vehicle ahead. It works in tandem with Steering Assist, which recognises a bend ahead and adjusts steering weight to help the driver make a smooth and stable turn.
How sustainable is the 2024 Toyota C-HR?
Extensive measures have been taken to improve sustainability by increasing the use of recycled and animal-free materials and reducing carbon emissions through weight-saving and new production processes.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Toyota C-HR has twice the amount of recycled plastics, including a new seat fabric that’s made from recycled PET bottles. The bumpers are formed from a new resin material that is pre-coloured in the mould – an innovation that is expected to save hundreds of tonnes of CO2. Further savings have been achieved by adopting a new automated painting process using water-based paints, and by adopting a new animal-free material as an alternative to leather for the steering wheel cover.
A new panoramic roof design and the widespread use of high-strength steels are among the design and technology measures to reduce the car’s weight. The glass roof has low-emissive and infra-red reducing coatings to help moderate cabin temperature, which avoids the need for a heavy sunshade and in turn improves headroom by some 30 millimetres.
What powertrains will be available?
The new Toyota C-HR will be introduced with a choice of three electrified powertrains with fifth-generation hybrid technology: 1.8- or 2.0-litre hybrid electric – the same units installed in the latest Corolla family – and a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid electric system with increased EV capability.
All powertrains offer a class-leading balance of power and emissions, but it is the plug-in hybrid that provides the best of both worlds – effortless all-electric driving for daily use and highly efficient hybrid electric performance for longer trips. The system is designed to take much of the stress out of driving and even includes a new geofencing function (UK availability to be confirmed) that can automatically switch to EV operation when the car enters a low-emission zone.
What will it be like to drive?
Building on its predecessor’s nimble, agile handling, it’s safe to say that every aspect of the new Toyota C-HR has been analysed to enhance that reputation. During development it underwent extensive testing by a team of Toyota master drivers, both on track at the company’s European test centre and on all kinds of roads and in different weather conditions across the continent, to ensure the best possible dynamic balance was achieved.
As a result, the new powertrains are calibrated to deliver a more linear relationship between throttle input and vehicle response, increasing driver confidence in the vehicle’s reactions. In addition, the suspension, brakes and steering have been redesigned and tuned to balance vehicle poise, ride comfort and responsiveness.
Will there be a special launch edition?
As if the prospect of an all-new, next-generation car wasn’t special enough, the new Toyota C-HR range will feature a special Premiere Edition model. Curated to showcase the highest levels of equipment and styling, this edition is resplendent in the signature Sulphur bi-tone bodywork, while the cabin features perforated leather seats with contrasting Sulphur stitching, a head-up display and a panoramic roof.
When will we know more specific information, such as price and availability?
Full details of the UK range, specifications and pricing will be confirmed at a later date. But be assured that the new Toyota C-HR has the qualities to maintain its position as an iconic model that will continue to attract new customers and strengthen our reputation in Europe.
All information is correct at the time of publishing.