Carscape Team
Toyota’s C-HR has an overwhelming presence in the popular compact SUV genre. It is a global strategic car that meets a wide range of needs with two different power units, a hybrid model inherited from the Prius and a 1.2-liter downsized turbo that is conscious of the European market. seems to be grasping
Winner of the fiercely competitive compact SUV market
Currently, SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) are one of the hottest new cars on the market. Toyota C-HR, Subaru Impreza (including XV), Toyota Harrier, Honda Vezel, Nissan Esq-Trail, Mazda CX-5, and Mazda CX-3 ranked among the top 30 new car sales in July 2017. I’m here. Among SUVs, the most fierce sales competition is occurring in a slightly smaller SUV called a compact SUV. The most popular model in that class is the C-HR. Let’s take a closer look at why the C-HR is so popular compared to its rivals.
The dream of the first RAV-4, once again! ?
If you follow the roots of SUVs, you will end up with cross-country 4WD in the 80’s. The crossover 4WD was based on a truck, but the SUV uses a body based on a passenger car, and it is more comfortable on paved roads than off-road rough roads, and running stability comparable to sedans. It refers to the model that has been realized. One of the ancestors of such SUV was RAV4 released by Toyota in 1994. The RAV4, which had a novel style like a lunar exploration vehicle, became a big hit all over the world, but after that, it became a buried presence, probably because of repeated model changes with a slightly plain style. rice field.
The C-HR this time is the favorite model of the compact SUV introduced by Toyota. It is a model with considerable power just to be sold all over the world where compact SUVs are in full bloom. The most obvious manifestation of this is the unique and innovative style that everyone looks back on (in 2017). I feel the seriousness of Toyota, who knows the history of RAV4.
Prius base while looking stylish. So it’s a great deal!
The C-HR, which appeared in December 2016, is based on the 4th generation Prius that appeared about a year ago. The chassis, which is the framework of the body, adopts “TNGA”, which reflects the structural reforms for “making ever-better cars” advocated by President Akio Toyoda. What is “TNGA” and is it delicious? I think there are many people who say that, so to put it simply, it is based on the Prius’s “expensive” chassis that supports the backbone of Toyota, so in addition to excellent safety and fuel efficiency, it has the advantages of conventional Toyota vehicles. We have also succeeded in acquiring a solid feeling of running that has been said to be a weak point! about it. In addition, the C-HR has undergone driving tests on various roads and circuits around the world, and has been given a flavor unique to an SUV in its dynamic performance.
As mentioned above, the exterior adopts Toyota’s unique Keen Look and the latest design called Under Priority, and the biggest feature is the unique and innovative design that combines lightness and strength. It looks like a display car at a motor show.
The rear door handles are integrated into the body to minimize their presence, giving the impression of a two-door coupe. In addition, although it is an SUV, the total height is kept to 1550mm (FF car), which is compatible with many multi-story parking lots, to ensure the convenience of users in the city center.
Reason why interior design is popular as well as appearance
The interior uses a design that fits the sensibilities of adults who are particular about details such as texture, shape, and color, and is a finish that will satisfy men and women of all ages. One of the hidden reasons why the C-HR sells so well is the high-quality interior that does not betray its cool appearance.
In addition, the body size is a little large among compact SUVs, so it is also attractive that it has an interior space and luggage space that can comfortably move four adults on a short trip.
A hybrid that is great for city riding, and a downsizing turbo for outdoor enthusiasts
Another feature of the C-HR is that it has two different types of powertrains depending on the drive system. The FF G and S grades use a hybrid system called THS-II that combines a 1.8L gasoline engine and motor. Like the Prius, it is the latest hybrid. The maximum system output is 90kW (122ps), and the JC08 mode fuel efficiency is 30.2km/L. This is the class number one good fuel efficiency, as expected of the Prius base. For those who want to ride stylishly in the city, the hybrid is the best choice.
On the other hand, the GT and ST grades of 4WD vehicles are equipped with a 1.2L turbo, which is a downsizing turbo engine. The maximum output is 85kW (116ps), and the JC08 mode fuel efficiency is 15.4km/L. The 4WD system used is called Dynamic Torque Control 4WD, and during normal times, it runs only on the front wheels and exhibits excellent fuel efficiency. When starting off or driving on slippery roads, the optimal torque is distributed to the rear wheels, ensuring stable driving performance regardless of changes in road conditions. This model is probably conscious of overseas markets such as Europe. Turbo + 4WD settings are great for people who enjoy the outdoors and who often drive on highways, snowy roads, and mountain roads.
The C-HR has a hybrid model and a turbo model with different origins, making it a car that appeals to both city riders and outdoor enthusiasts.
A compact SUV with a lot of talent, and if you choose it for its fuel efficiency and unique style, it’s the C-HR!
The C-HR’s rivals are Honda Vezel and Mazda CX-3. Vezel features excellent packaging inherited from the Fit, which is a hit model of compact cars, and the point is the spaciousness of the interior despite its small size. There are two types of powertrains: a 1.5L straight 4 gasoline engine and a 1.5L engine + motor hybrid system. The unique point of Vezel is that you can choose 4WD with a hybrid vehicle. However, compared to the unique styling of the C-HR, the evaluation of this car will change depending on how you perceive its somewhat conservative appearance.
On the other hand, all models of the CX-3 feature packaging with a total height of 1550mm, which allows it to enter a multi-story parking lot. In addition to the 1.5L diesel turbo that generates a maximum output of 105ps, the installed powertrain added a 2L gasoline engine that generates a maximum output of 148ps in July 2017. Gasoline cars only have a 6-speed AT, but diesel cars have a 6-speed MT in addition to a 6-speed AT. The CX-3’s elegant design is in sharp contrast to the innovative C-HR. Also, the CX-3’s solid driving feel like a European car is very popular with car enthusiasts.
Comparing the fuel efficiency performance of the C-HR and rival vehicles, the C-HR is 30.2km/L (S/G), the Vezel is 27.0km/L (hybrid FF vehicle), and the CX-3 is 25.0km/L (XD). As expected, the Prius-based C-HR is one step ahead. However, for those who travel a lot, there is room to consider the fact that the diesel engine CX-3 has good fuel efficiency on highways. The 4WD C-HR is a gasoline engine, so the fuel efficiency is not that good. Although the difference in sales volume is greater than its actual performance, the CX-3 is a car worth checking out, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.
Good fuel efficiency of hybrid that is hard to throw away, advanced grade with full equipment is recommended
In addition to standing out with an ultra-unique style compared to its rivals, the C-HR is popular for its Prius-based fuel efficiency. In addition to the engine and drive system, there are two grade differences, standard and advanced.
The basic grade has a standard 16-inch wheel (left photo), and the advanced grade 17-inch wheel has an elaborate design (right photo).
The hybrid car is S and the upper grade G. There are 4 types of turbo cars, ST and high grade GT. The difference in equipment depending on the grade is that the wheels that are installed are 17 inches for S/ST. On the other hand, the advanced G/GT is 18 inches. The seat cover is a combination of fabric and genuine leather for G/GT. S/ST is fabric, only G/GT can choose genuine leather seats as an option. In addition, the G/GT seats come standard with electric lumbar support and comfortable heated front seats. All models come with fully automatic air conditioning as standard equipment, but the G/GT is equipped with a nanoe function that purifies the air.
In terms of safety equipment, the advanced safe driving support system “Toyota Safety Sense P” is standard equipment on all models, but the blind spot monitor, clearance sonar and back sonar that tell you the presence of a car in the blind spot behind the side are advanced. Only available on G/GT. In addition, the LED headlight is also an option setting only for G / GT.
The recommended grade is the advanced grade G of the hybrid car. A 4WD turbocharged vehicle is best in a snowy area, but we cannot ignore the figure of about twice the catalog fuel efficiency. In addition, compared to the basic grade S, it is equipped with 17-inch wheels and a combination seat with a heating mechanism. Considering safety equipment such as blind spot monitors, G is the best buy.
Toyota’s masterpiece, not just looks
Like Toyota’s global strategic car, the C-HR has a fulfilling appearance and content. In particular, its stylish appearance and excellent fuel efficiency make it stand out from its rivals. The popularity of C-HR will continue for a while.
*The content of the article is based on information as of August 2017.
