Toyota C-HR 2019 review: A Unique Compact Crossover

The Toyota C-HR is a small SUV that competes with the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V and the Nissan Rogue Sport/Qashqai. With a distinctive design and high-quality interior, does the C-HR have what it takes, despite its modest 1.2-litre engine? To get some first impressions, Tom drives the 2019 Toyota C-HR in manual form.

What do you think of the new Toyota C-HR? Do you think it beats a CX-3 or ASX inside and out? Let me know all your thoughts in the comments.

Covers the exterior, interior, boot space, engine and driving of the Toyota C-HR 2020 / 2019 C-HR in hatchback form.

[malcolmar]

We love our C-HR. I just bought one a few months ago here in the US. We bought a 2019 XLE model in metallic blue with a white top and it looks amazing! As you mentioned, you get a lot of style and premium options for the money and the safety features, including 10 airbags, in this car cannot be matched in its price segment. We have a family of 3 and the size is perfect. Everyone fits fine and the car is small and nimble to get around. It may not be a sports car but it is sporty. "Sports" mode really wakes the car up and I love the G monitor to measure g forces. I am jealous of your manual transmission though and wished it was an option here in the US. I am not a big fan of that 1.2 liter turbo engine though. We get the normally aspirated 2.0 liter, 144 hp engine here and on top of that, over here, Toyota also offers some great first party, after market performance parts for the car right from the dealer. I already installed a TRD Air Intake Kit for more torque and horsepower. I will be installing some TRD Lowering Springs to make the car handle even better as well as improving the stance of the car by lowing it about an inch. We got the car because it was the perfect car for us but I am seeing more of them here in So Cal. It was designed in Toyota's CA design studio and the chief engineer of the C-HR is also a race car driver, and fine tuned it on the Nurburgring which is why is handles so well. Sadly, I feel the lackluster engine was a victim of budget constraints.

[robertte]

A month ago after watching this terrific review I said I would hold off from buying this unique and futuristic looking vehicle, but would nevertheless have another drive at the dealers. I did do this and looked at the vehicle in reference to Tom's observations and commentary. I am so glad I did - last week I bought one and have to agree with him the 1.2L Turbo does the job superbly. Sure a 1.5L or 1.8L (Turbo) or 2L engine is what is needed in this vehicle, given its confident look, but the 1.2L Turbo does do all that is required in the city and the open road. It never professed to be a racing car! I bought the high end Koba model, All Wheel Drive, which only comes in Auto and with every imaginable safety device or system. I can really feel that road grip and direct steering. Not a passenger has complained about the rear windows, rather, most said the design kept the sun off them from the side, while they could still look forward and outwards. The only thing that could better the look of this vehicle, is if it was built even more closely to the original "concept" design shown in 2015/2016. Now that is something to behold. The CHR is a classy vehicle of sound Toyota quality.

[chasingcars]

From Toyota’s largest off-roader to their smallest crossover in just two videos. Last week, it was the Land Cruiser. This week, Tom takes a closer look at the C-HR, one of the funkiest vehicles in the compact crossover class.

[charles]

You got it spot on Tom with the model you have reviewed. The 6-speed manual is the only way to go! I know this, because I have one.

[Ozjin]

Only 30k subs? Best car reviewer out there imo, subscribe people!

[robertte]

I have watched reviews made in the USA, England and a few in Australia and all provide some useful insight, however its apparent the different markets have slightly varying models / features. This was a really positive, bouyant and informative overview which was exceedingly helpful and factual, looking at salient features for all observers. A terrific and entertaining style of presentation. I do love the look and style of this vehicle, its massive safety features, and most things Toyota. I would have already bought one but for the 1.2L motor, even though its a turbo. A 1.8 or 2L model would have had me sell my two current cars and already driving out of the dealers by now, but will go back and have another drive. My fear is I buy the Australian 1.2L version and next year out comes a 1.4 or 1.6. Your video has got me revisiting this futuristic looking vehicle. Thanks Tom.

[Happy-Me.]

I've just bought a 2018 fully loaded 1.2 turbo. Excellent car. Im nit ready fur sn automatic car as yet!

[steve]

Two long test drives, lots of reading and watching You Tubes and I will get mine (the top model) in 10 days. Most of my driving is alone or with my wife. We have a larger car and the back seat is not a real issue with the C-HR. I am 80 and bigger cars are daunting. I have had two Priai and enjoy the hybrid concept. But the real clincher was the full safety package. I am a tech freak and want an 8 safety rated car. I'll follow up in two months. If you are thinking of buying it is important to read the reviews for your country or another country where the engine and add-ons match those in your country. Most important is the wide difference in reviews for almost the same car, by country Many of the US reviews are B-/C+ and I read this as an A- review. he European reviews are all positive.

[barryrathbone]

Surprised that you don’t get the 1.8 hybrid. You do however get a CD player unlike the uk!

[malcolmscott]

Great review and production Tom - love the CHR - next to 86 its Toyota’s best car for sure

[alexanderrbanks]

Awesome review! What do you think about Kluger?

[nickhayesreviews]

One of my mates has this in the Koba trim, drives very nicely and is very comfortable. I'd probably though spend a little more and buy a Lexus UX.

I am biased with the C-HR. I very like, that Toyota was brave enough and the car has not that boring style as usual. Otherwise the back seems a little bit over styled. I friend of mine changed from a Fortuner to the C-HR Hybrid and he is very satisfied.

[RainThefoxOfficial]

Toyota is killing it at all car market in Australia these years.

[jagdeepsandhu]

Just too small for me...sub compacts feel so much more uncomfortable on the road then the compact suvs imo

[sagcrossroad]

I thought about getting this but the engine just put me off...I wish it gets a bigger engine

[MLife]

'pretty ghetto'... Solid gold

[BennnWJK]

I dislike crossovers in general. This is no exception. I’d just get a proper SUV if i wanted a higher driving position

[brycem]

little truck....lol
underpowered p.o.s 1.2L
88kw for a weight is 1400 to 1500kg

[NeillyVille]

Looks good outside but very cramp and outdated interior. Toyota need to keep up with interior design like Mazda! And Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should be standard on all new cars today!