New electric Toyota C-HR: speed and premium quality
Electric vehicles are no longer something new, but not all manufacturers have found their style. Toyota, which has long been a leader in the world of hybrids, is now seriously focusing on fully electric models. The new version of the compact C-HR crossover is not just a design update but a true rebranding. It is so fast that it even surpasses Toyota’s GR86 sports car.
After a hesitant market entry with the bZ4X model (later renamed simply to bZ), the company decided to make a bold statement. While developing the electric C-HR, engineers compared it to competitors in both mass-market and premium segments. Thanks to the power of 338 hp from two electric motors, Toyota confidently states that this model now belongs to the premium class.
“During testing, we divided competitors into two groups—ordinary cars for daily use and premium ones. Now we are in the premium group. The new model is more powerful, and that is always appealing,” noted Daisuke Ido, chief engineer of the bZ and C-HR projects.
Marketing specialist Chad Moore added that Toyota emphasizes sporty dynamics and a more refined design than the previous version. Although the C-HR is not a true sports car like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, its acceleration to 60 mph in 5 seconds is a figure that was recently characteristic of expensive sports cars.
In Europe, the crossover will be offered in two versions—165 and 221 hp—but they will not be available in the US. For the American market, only the all-wheel-drive version with two motors remains. Compared to competitors like the Kia EV6 GT, the C-HR may seem less dynamic, but for most buyers, its performance will be more than sufficient.
Interestingly, Toyota, which previously focused on reliability and efficiency, is now taking a step toward emotional driving. This could be a turning point for the brand, especially among young buyers looking not just for an eco-friendly but also an exciting car.