2021 Toyota CH-R – First Drive
A Perfect Display of Toyota’s Know-How
Toyota is well known for building affordable cars with excellent fuel economy and the small-size cross-over SUV is one of them. While it’s got plenty of sharp contours to pull off a sporty look, the CH-R only produces 144 horsepower via its 2.0L inline 4 and CVT transmission combo. That won’t be enough to please speed adrenaline seekers, but will make plenty happy at the fuel pumps thanks to its excellent fuel economy.
Toyota continues to roll out its Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 active safety system as standard features which now includes emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, automatic high-beam headlamps and adaptive cruse control. The CH-R also receives a new Nightshade Edition package as part of the mid-range XLE model that has a stealthy black-out exterior and larger 18″ black rims.
The CH-R is offered in three trims: LE, XLE and Limited with abase price of $22,900. Stepping up to the XLE gets you larger 18″ wheels, proximity and passive keyless entry, blind spot monitoring, heated exerior mirrors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for an extra $2,000. Limited trims add adaptive LED projector headlights for improved visibility, leather-trimmed seats and an eight-way power adjustable driver seats for an extra $3,000 on top of the XLE trim.
Powertrain
Powering the CH-R underneath the hood is a miniature 2.0L Inline 4yclinder engine producing just 144 horsepower and 138 lb.ft of torque. To improve on fuel economy, the CH-R is fitted with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) with the end result of achieving a very respectable EPA score of 27 and 31 mpg in the city and highway driving. That puts the CH-R in tight competition with the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Kona.
The CH-R will unfortunately be limited to just a front-wheel drive configuration, but its short wheelbase and light curb weight makes the CH-R feel fun and zippy around quick corners.
Interior and Tech Features
The CH-R interior remains basic but functional with aa dual analog speedometer/tachometer cluster, standard gear shift lever, center climate controls and a a faux-leather dash panel and various mid-tier grade plastic used as part of its interior construction. XLE trims receive more enhanced interior features include leather-trimmed seats and dual-climate controls.
Because of its short wheel-base, the CH-R is not the most ideal for fitting adults in the rear seats, but will do just fine for infants and kids. The rear hatchback trunk also provides added convenience for loading extra cargo.
Powering the 8″ infotainment touchscreen is Toyota’s in-house Entune software that handles all the basic smartphone and media amenities including AM, FM, SiriusXM and Bluetooth. Both Android Auto and Apple Carplay are also supported for seamless smartphone connectivity.
While the infotainment software covers all basis, the low screen resolution and, and slightly sluggish response makes the overall system feel dated.
Test Drive and Final Thoughts
Despite its limited power output of just 144 horsepower, the CH-R picks up speed fairly quickly thanks to its small form factor, and lighter curb weight. Once speed picks up, the CH-R maintains its overall speed fairly well. Steering also feels accurate and well tuned for its city-goer application.
The CVT transmission remains one of the biggest pet peeves with its obnoxious engine whine and wind noise leaking into the cabin space.
Still, the CH-R does what it does best with its snazzy styling and excellent fuel economy, making it a great choice for entry buyers with practical intents.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2021 Toyota CH-R
- Model : CH-R Limited
- Vehicle Type : 5-door Cross-over
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Engine : 2.0 Liter Inline 4 Cylinder
- Transmission : E-CVT
- Price as tested: $24,900
Pros
- Sharp and modern styling
- Affordable price tag with excellent fuel economy
- Functional interior and cargo space with 5-door hatchback practicality
Cons
- Obnoxious engine/transmission sound from CVT
- Lack of cabin space noise insulation