Is the new Toyota C HR Hybrid 2025 the best SUV out there? It's got a stylish new look, is available in both plug-in and regular hybrid versions, has more tech than ever before, and is roomier inside. In our detailed Toyota C HR hybrid review, we aim to provide you with all the answers you're looking for.
Our experts have thoroughly evaluated the new Toyota C HR Hybrid 2025 inside and out; examining its hybrid powertrain, driving quality, updated styling, enhanced interior, practicality and various other features. This comprehensive assessment will help determine whether the C HR Hybrid lives up to the hype.
The final verdict
Toyota has excelled with the new C HR Hybrid, focusing on design and driving experience. While emphasising these aspects, it retains Toyota's core strengths: reliability, practicality for small families, and efficiency.
The new C HR Hybrid builds on its predecessor's virtues, adding fresh features and improvements without compromising the qualities that made the original so popular.
What is in the review?
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A quick overview
The Toyota C HR Hybrid comes with the following features:
0-62 in 8.1 - 10.2 seconds
Acceleration
Top Speed
105-111.8 mph
140
Brake Horse Power
10 Years
Extended Warranty
Touch Screen Infotainment System
12.3 inch
About the new Toyota C HR Hybrid 2025
The new C HR Hybrid blends concept car-like looks with advanced tech while keeping the best features of its predecessor. Its futuristic appearance includes flush door handles, LED headlights with built-in indicators, and an illuminated C HR logo on the rear lights. This improved design positions it as a more style-focused option in the compact SUV market.
The C HR Hybrid comes in 5 main trim-levels:
- Icon
- Design
- Excel
- GR Sport
- Limited-edition premium variant
- 1.8L hybrid (140 hp)
- 2.0L hybrid (197 hp)
- 2.0L plug-in hybrid (up to 41 miles electric range)
All versions use Toyota's 5th generation hybrid technology.
What is Toyota' 5th generation hybrid technology?
Toyota's 5th generation hybrid technology, first seen in the 2023 Corolla Cross, offers a better mix of efficiency, performance and safety.
It features a more compact motor generator and a lighter hybrid battery, delivering higher power output with improved fuel efficiency. Unlike older hybrids, this new system excels in both city and motorway driving, delivering better performance without sacrificing efficiency.
It also includes improved safety features like enhanced adaptive cruise control and better lane trace assist. These updates set a new benchmark for hybrid vehicles, making them more versatile and appealing to a wider range of drivers.
Toyota C HR Hybrid interior features
A good balance between style and functionality
The C HR Hybrid's interior blends function and style perfectly. While still minimalist like earlier models, it's cleverly designed to include all necessary features. Premium touches set it apart from typical compact SUVs, offering a more upscale feel without sacrificing practicality.
Making the most of a modest interior
The C HR Hybrid makes good use of its compact exterior, with interior dimensions of 1,690mm length, 1,465mm width, and 1,210mm height.
While the sloping roofline slightly reduces rear cargo space, it can still comfortably fit three adults with reasonable luggage.
Compared to larger SUVs like the Tiguan or Formentor, it's smaller but still practical. The new model improves on the previous C HR's rear space, addressing a common criticism. An optional panoramic glass roof adds 30mm of headroom, enhancing interior comfort.
A premium experience as standard
The C HR Hybrid’s interior blends a premium feel with practicality - even as standard.
From the outset, you’re treated to ambient lighting on the front doors of the vehicle, making a great first impression.
Once sat in the vehicle, it’s instantly noticeable that the front interior boasts high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces, while the rear uses more hard plastics that suit the vehicle's style - fitting the minimalist design rather than suggesting cost-cutting.
Stand-out features include the 3-spoke synthetic leather steering wheel and the elegant climate control switches which both look premium and luxurious to the touch.
Notably, the new C HR Hybrid uses twice the recycled materials of its predecessor without compromising quality or durability.
It also introduces a vegan leather alternative for the steering wheel cover – showing that the folks at Toyota really do think of everything!
Tech built for comfort and convenience
Toyota have kept comfort and convenience firmly in mind with the C HR Hybrid’s tech.
One of the first features you’re greeted with is the push-button start which ensures you are up and running in seconds. And from here, it’s clear to see that the car is well-connected throughout.
Both voice recognition and Bluetooth connectivity are at the forefront here, allowing you to navigate around the car’s key features with ease. This, along with the 12.3-inch touchscreen Smart Connect multimedia system with wireless Smartphone integration (incl. Apple CarPlay) fully enhances the infotainment experience.
While the system's quality is subjective, our experts found the touchscreen responsive and reliable, with no glitches even under heavy use.
The safety element of the C HR Hybrid is also prioritised. The multimedia system includes a reversing camera, complete with static guidelines. And with UV-filters included on the front and rear windows, you and your passengers can enjoy a safe and comfortable experience.
Toyota C HR Hybrid interior FAQs
The C HR offers a variety of storage options throughout the interior which includes door pockets, glove compartment, cupholders, cargo area and centre console.
There are 5 upholstery options for the C HR Hybrid, depending on what trim you choose. These include:
- Black fabric
- Black fabric with grey stitching
- Black suede & animal-free leather
- Bordeaux synthetic leather & sust Dinamica
- Black synthetic & synthetic leather with leather shoulders & red stitching
Toyota C HR Hybrid exterior features
A design that stands out from the crowd
Toyota has successfully broken free from its "reliable but boring" image with the new C HR Hybrid. This SUV boasts a striking street presence, standing out from typical designs with it's unique shape and style. It creates a strong visual statement without resorting to cookie-cutter styling, successfully blending uniqueness with broad appeal.
What makes it stand out?
The C HR Hybrid's C-shaped headlights are a standout feature, giving the SUV a futuristic, concept car look rarely seen in budget-friendly models.
The illuminated logo adds a touch of luxury, making even everyday trips feel special. These design elements elevate the C-HR above typical SUVs in its class, offering a prestigious feel without the premium price tag.
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Are there any nitpicks?
Toyota's external design with the C HR Hybrid is such that our experts struggled to find significant flaws.
The only potential nitpick was the chunky rear pillars. Although stylish, they may challenge some drivers during parallel parking or when reversing from tight spots.
Experienced drivers shouldn't find this problematic, and the parking sensors provide valuable assistance.
What are the wheel options?
The C HR Hybrid offers various wheel sizes and finishes depending on the trim you choose. In terms of sizes, this includes 17-20 inch alloys, while the colours include silver, black, anthracite and dark grey.
Which wheel is most suitable for you is down to personal preference. From our experts' perspective, the 18-inch wheels offer the best balance of style and comfort. For a sportier look, the 20-inch wheels fill out the arches impressively. However, they make the ride firmer and increase road noise.
If you prioritise looks over comfort, the 20-inch are ideal. For a more balanced experience, the 18-inch option is recommended.
Is it aerodynamic?
Toyota's designers have blended form and function in the C HR Hybrid's design to maximise the vehicle's aerodynamic ability.
A key feature here is the coupe-like roofline, which is not only stylish, but reduces drag by improving airflow over the vehicle. This clever approach enhances aerodynamics while maintaining the high-riding position that SUV buyers are looking for.
The C-shaped headlights and front design also serve an aerodynamic purpose. They guide airflow around the wheels and along the vehicle's sides, reducing turbulence and drag.
This thoughtful design demonstrates Toyota's commitment to combining aesthetics with practical engineering - making us intrigued to see how they develop this further with future models.
Driving and performance
A comfortable and quiet experience
The C HR Hybrid provides a comfortable ride, especially in urban settings.
Cabin noise is minimal, posing no significant concern. This is partly due to the supple suspension which effectively absorbs potholes and speed bumps, preventing harsh impacts from reaching the interior.
This setup is ideal for city driving and daily commutes, offering a smooth and refined experience.
How does it handle?
The C HR Hybrid impresses as a compact SUV with its surprising agility. It handles corners with minimal body roll and feels nimble, particularly in urban environments. The light steering enhances manoeuvrability in tight spaces, making it well-suited for city driving.
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Hybrid technology proves to be a step forward for Toyota
Both self-charging and plug-in hybrid options in the C HR Hybrid enhance the driving experience in their own unique way. The self-charging hybrid excels in city driving, often running on electric power alone, providing a smooth and quiet operation. Alternatively, the plug-in hybrid offers up to 41 miles of electric-only range, which makes it ideal for most daily commutes.
Fuel economy is a particular strong point, especially with the 1.8-litre hybrid as it achieves around 60 mpg in real-world conditions.
And if you was worried that the C HR Hybrid puts practicality over performance, think again. Our experts found that the acceleration is impressive for a hybrid, particularly in the 2.0-litre version, which offers more responsive performance.
These hybrid systems positively impact the driving experience by combining efficiency with smooth power delivery, making the C HR Hybrid well-suited for both urban and longer journeys.
Driving modes that take the driving experience to the next level
The C HR Hybrid offers four driving modes, each with their own unique function:
- Normal - automatically manages the most efficient use of both engine and battery
- EV - electric-only driving (for short distances)
- Eco - prioritises fuel efficiency
- Power - prioritises performance and responsiveness
Although each of these are handy, you should be aware that the car automatically defaults to the 'Normal' mode at each start. While resetting may initially seem frustrating, it offers benefits in terms of safety and energy efficiency. Either way, it takes seconds to change to the required mode, which barely makes it an inconvenience.
By using these modes, you can ensure to make the most out of the C HR's Hybrid experience - in terms of both economics and performance.
The definitive motorway experience
The C HR Hybrid provides an outstanding experience on motorways. While packing sufficient power for overtaking and maintaining cruising speeds, its aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise, contributing to a quieter cabin at higher speeds. This is especially the case for the 2.0-litre hybrid option which offers more responsive acceleration.
On longer journeys, the C HR Hybrid's comfortable seats and well-tuned suspension help reduce driver fatigue. Driver comfort is further supported with additional features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist which provide an essential level of convenience and safety for longer trips.
While not necessarily designed predominantly as a long-distance cruiser, the C HR Hybrid is certainly a car to consider for frequent motorway users.
Practicality
A practical all-rounder for the family
The Toyota C HR Hybrid 2025 balances style and driving dynamics with practicality, offering a good all-round package for a compact SUV.
In terms of space, the car provides generous front legroom and adequate rear space, while taller drivers will find it comfortable given the driving position.
Contrary to common belief, the sloping roofline and thick rear pillars are not a hindrance. Despite these features, headroom is suitable for most passengers while visibility is not significantly limited.
Moving to the rear of the vehicle, it can easily accommodate three people - which is impressive for its class. This therefore makes the C HR Hybrid best suited for individuals or small families who prioritise aesthetics and driving experience over maximum space efficiency.
While not class-leading in practicality, the C HR Hybrid is more than a viable choice as it offers a compelling compromise between style and functionality.
A slight compromise on style over boot space
Although the C HR Hybrid's boot space is reasonable for a small SUV, it isn't class-leading in this area. However, clocking in at 364 litres with rear seats up and 1,140 litres with rear seats folded, this is likely to be sufficient for most drivers.
Overall, the boot is functional for everyday use and can accommodate larger items when needed. However, it's not the most spacious in its class, reflecting the C HR Hybrid's focus on style over maximum practicality.
Limited but capable towing capacity
Resale and depreciation value
Toyota's outstanding warranty contributes towards minimal depreciation
Hybrid vehicle resale often faces concerns over battery life and replacement costs. However, Toyota's reputation for reliability and the C HR Hybrid's overall value contributes to its low depreciation and high resale value.
In fact, according to themoneycalculator, Toyota C HR models depreciate only 14 percent in the first three years when new.
A key contributory factor to Toyota's minimal depreciation is undoubtedly due to offering the longest extendable warranty - covering up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. This significantly impacts the vehicle's resale value, making it an attractive option for buyers concerned about long-term costs.
Competitive insurance costs
The Toyota C HR 2025 is considered an affordable car to insure, due to it falling in mid-range insurance groups. Toyota C HR trims fall into the following 2 insurance groups:
- Insurance group 20 for 1.8 trims
- Insurance group 26 for 2.0 trims
For this reason, the Toyota C HR is relatively competitive to insure compared to other compact SUVs in the market.
Toyota C HR Hybrid price
Toyota C HR prices range from £30,145 to £40,055, depending on the trim level.
At Motorfinity, we offer exclusive discounts for eligible customers, allowing you to save a significant amount on your new car. Through Motorfinity, we offer more affordable prices for the Toyota C HR Hybrid, with the base variant starting from £25,765, while the high-end limited editions cost £34,392.
Please note that these prices may change over time, so it's advisable to check current offers when considering a purchase.
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