The Toyota C-HR is making a comeback in 2026 as an electrical automobile (EV) crossover, sharing lots of its mechanical elements with the newly launched Toyota bZ. This new iteration will probably be obtainable solely with all-wheel drive, delivering 338 horsepower and providing as much as 290 miles of vary.
The unique Toyota C-HR was a four-door crossover SUV that occupied a singular place in Toyota’s lineup. It was smaller and priced decrease than the RAV4 however struggled in gross sales and was discontinued in 2022, making approach for the extra well-liked Toyota Corolla Cross.
Quick ahead to 2026, and the C-HR is again, that includes a extra outlined position inside Toyota’s choices. It is going to be supplied solely as a full battery electrical mannequin, positioning itself as a sportier counterpart to the brand new Toyota bZ crossover, beforehand often known as the bZ4x. Different markets will obtain a model referred to as the C-HR+, however the U.S. will solely see the EV mannequin.
Using on the identical e-TNGA platform as its bZ counterpart, the C-HR comes with all-wheel drive and doesn’t provide a smaller battery choice. Each C-HR will characteristic a sturdy 338 horsepower paired with a 74.7 kWh battery, promising an estimated 290 miles of vary primarily based on EPA testing requirements.
Though this vary is barely lower than the 314 miles supplied by the bZ in front-wheel-drive XLE Plus trim, Toyota is positioning the C-HR as a sportier choice. With a shorter wheelbase of 108.3 inches and a decrease peak of 63.8 inches in comparison with the bZ, the C-HR goals to challenge a extra dynamic look, reflecting Toyota’s claims of its “performance-inspired spirit.”
Variations lengthen to the suspension, with distinctive tuning that gives a extra partaking driving expertise. The C-HR additionally incorporates quality-of-life enhancements just like the bZ, together with a Tesla-style NACS port together with plug-and-charge capabilities. The automobile options handbook or automated battery preconditioning for DC quick charging, however it’s price noting that it’s geared up with an 11 kW onboard charger for AC charging, not like the bZ, which provides an non-obligatory 22 kW unit.
Inside, the C-HR boasts a dashboard just like the brand new bZ, that includes twin wi-fi charging pads and a 14-inch touchscreen. Regardless of its sportier design, it retains about 25.4 cubic ft of cargo house behind the rear seats, alongside “beneficiant headroom and ample cabin house,” in keeping with Toyota.
Whereas the C-HR received’t include as many motor and battery choices as obtainable in different markets, the place a front-wheel-drive choice and a smaller 57.7 kWh battery are supplied, the U.S. model will probably be AWD solely and obtainable in two trims: SE and XSE. This will have an effect on its worth level in comparison with the bZ.
Nonetheless, the Toyota C-HR could possibly be an intriguing alternative for these searching for a spirited electrical crossover from Toyota. It’s anticipated to achieve dealerships subsequent 12 months.
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