The facelifted Toyota C-HR sharpened a successful formula with cleaner styling, better infotainment (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in many markets), and subtle chassis and NVH refinements. In 1.2-litre turbo petrol form (8NR-FTS) and front-wheel drive, it remains the most “conventional” powertrain in the line-up—simple to own, easy to drive, and economical when maintained. The TNGA-C platform continues to impress: multi-link rear suspension, a rigid body, and carefully tuned bushings give this small crossover a calm, planted feel that rivals struggle to match. The 116 hp output looks modest on paper, yet a broad 185 Nm torque plateau makes the C-HR pull cleanly from low revs in everyday traffic. Compared with early cars, the facelift brings quieter cabin trim, crisper steering on-centre, and revised LED lighting packages. If you want the C-HR’s distinctive design and refined ride without going hybrid, the facelifted 1.2T is the sweet spot.
Fast Facts
- Polished TNGA-C chassis: composed ride, precise steering, and low cabin noise on 17-inch tyres.
- 8NR-FTS turbo torque (185 Nm) delivers easy everyday pace; CVT is relaxed, 6-MT is engaging.
- Strong active safety story with Toyota Safety Sense; LED headlights markedly improve night driving.
- Watch for DI intake valve deposits over high mileage and keep CVT fluid fresh if equipped.
- Typical service: oil and filter every 12 months or 10,000–15,000 km; brake fluid every 2 years.
Navigate this guide
- C-HR 1.2T facelift overview
- C-HR 1.2T specs and data
- C-HR trims and safety 2019–2023
- Reliability and service actions
- Maintenance and buyer’s guide
- Driving impressions and economy
- C-HR rivals and alternatives
C-HR 1.2T facelift overview
Toyota kept what owners liked and tidied the rest. The 2019 update brings a cleaner front bumper, reshaped grille and lamps, and a neater rear with revised LED signatures. Cabin tweaks target perceived quality and usability: clearer instrument graphics, an upgraded head unit with smartphone mirroring in many markets, and improved noise isolation. Under the skin, the TNGA-C chassis is unchanged in layout—MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear—but bushing, damper, and EPS tweaks lift straight-line stability and mid-corner composure, especially on coarse motorways.
The 8NR-FTS remains a highlight for daily use. It’s a small, direct-injection turbo four with VVT-iW timing that can emulate a Miller-like cycle at light loads for efficiency, then switch to conventional timing for power. The useful part is the torque band: 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) from around 1,500 to 4,000 rpm, so you don’t need many revs to make smooth progress. The facelift doesn’t chase headline numbers; instead, it refines drivability. Response off idle is tidy, the turbo spools unobtrusively, and the calibration reduces the “rubber band” sensation common to CVTs. If you prefer an old-school feel, the 6-speed manual is geared for relaxed cruising but allows confident downshifts; the clutch is progressive and hill-starts are easy.
Practicality is honest for the class. The driving position is spot-on, front seats are supportive over distance, and the back row suits adults on short-to-medium trips, though the high window line still limits rearward visibility. Cargo space is shaped usefully wide with a sensible lift-over. As before, wheel and tyre choice shifts the C-HR’s character: 18-inch packages look sharp but add tyre roar; 17-inch packages deliver the best comfort/noise balance. Safety content—AEB with pedestrian detection, lane support, traffic sign assist, and adaptive cruise availability—anchors the facelift’s value and keeps fatigue low on long journeys.
C-HR 1.2T specs and data
Data below reflects the facelifted Toyota C-HR 1.2-litre turbo petrol (8NR-FTS), 2WD, model years 2019–2023 in Europe. Figures vary slightly by trim, wheel/tyre package, transmission, and test cycle.
Engine and Performance (ICE)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 8NR-FTS (D-4T direct-injection turbo) |
| Layout & valvetrain | Inline-4, DOHC, Dual VVT-i/VVT-iW, 4 valves/cyl |
| Bore × stroke | 71.5 × 74.5 mm (2.81 × 2.93 in) |
| Displacement | 1.197 L (1,197 cc) |
| Induction | Single-scroll turbo with intercooler |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Max power | 116 hp (85 kW) @ ~5,200–5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) @ 1,500–4,000 rpm |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (D-4T) |
| Emissions/efficiency std. | Euro 6; WLTP fuel/CO₂ from 2019 facelift |
| Rated combined economy* | ~5.6–6.3 L/100 km (42–37 mpg US / 50–45 mpg UK) |
| Real-world highway @ 120 km/h | ~6.8–7.6 L/100 km (35–31 mpg US / 42–37 mpg UK) |
| Aerodynamics | Cd ≈ 0.32; smooth underbody panels |
*WLTP values vary with wheel size and equipment.
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission (manual) | 6-speed MT; hill-start assist |
| Transmission (CVT) | Continuously Variable Transmission with “step-shift” logic |
| Final drive ratio | ~3.8 (varies slightly by transmission/wheel) |
| Drive type | Front-wheel drive (2WD) |
| Differential | Open; traction via VSC/TRC |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | MacPherson strut, coil, stabiliser |
| Rear suspension | Double-wishbone/multi-link with stabiliser |
| Steering | Electric power steering; ~2.7 turns lock-to-lock |
| Brakes (front/rear) | Ventilated disc / solid disc; ABS, EBD, brake assist |
| Wheels/tyres | 17–18 in factory packages; 215/60 R17 or 225/50 R18 typical |
| Ground clearance | ~142 mm (5.6 in) |
| Length × width × height | ~4,390 × 1,795 × 1,565 mm (172.8 × 70.7 × 61.6 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm (103.9 in) |
| Turning circle (kerb-to-kerb) | ~10.4–10.8 m (34.1–35.4 ft) |
| Kerb (curb) weight | ~1,325–1,385 kg (2,921–3,053 lb), spec-dependent |
| Fuel tank | 50 L (13.2 US gal / 11.0 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (VDA) | ~377 L seats up; ~1,164 L seats down |
Performance and Capability
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ~10.9–11.2 s (CVT/MT similar) |
| Top speed | ~185–190 km/h (115–118 mph) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h | Class-typical; stable on quality tyres |
| Towing (braked/unbraked) | Light towing only where homologated; confirm on VIN plate |
| Payload | Trim-dependent; check door-jamb label |
| Roof load | Typically 50–75 kg (110–165 lb) with approved bars |
Fluids and Service Capacities
| System | Spec / Grade | Capacity* |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF-5/6, 0W-20 preferred | ~4.0 L (4.2 US qt) service fill |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink premix) | ~6.4–6.7 L (6.8–7.1 US qt) |
| Manual transmission | Toyota MT Gear Oil LV, API GL-4 75W | ~2.4 L (2.5 US qt) |
| CVT | Toyota CVT Fluid FE | ~7.4–7.9 L (7.8–8.3 US qt) incl. level set |
| A/C refrigerant | R1234yf; ND-11/ND-12 oil | ~470 g (16.6 oz), verify bonnet label |
| Fuel | Unleaded petrol, min RON 95 recommended | 50 L |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium; gap ~0.7–0.8 mm (0.028–0.031 in) | 4 plugs |
| Wheel lug torque | ~103 Nm (76 lb-ft)** | — |
*Approximate workshop figures; verify by VIN.
**May vary with wheel kit; follow owner’s manual.
Electrical
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| 12 V battery | 45–60 Ah AGM/EFB depending on equipment |
| Alternator | Compact, high-output; LED and ADAS compatible |
| Ignition | Coil-on-plug; ECU-controlled dwell and knock strategy |
Safety and Driver Assistance
| Area | Notes |
|---|---|
| Crash ratings | Five-star Euro NCAP for this generation; facelift remains within rating validity |
| Headlights | Halogen or LED by grade; LED with AHB improves reach/cut-off |
| ADAS suite | Toyota Safety Sense: AEB (vehicle/pedestrian), Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Road Sign Assist; Adaptive Cruise availability expands post-facelift |
| Child seats | ISOFIX/LATCH outboard rear, top-tethers; child-lock doors |
| Structure | High-strength TNGA shell; multiple airbags with head-protecting curtains |
C-HR trims and safety 2019–2023
Trim walk (common European pattern; names vary by country)
- Icon/Active (entry): 17-inch alloys, Toyota Safety Sense, reversing camera, manual or dual-zone climate by market, basic Touch 2 infotainment with smartphone mirroring on later cars, cloth seats.
- Design/Mid: Adds dual-zone climate where missing, front/rear sensors (or pack), privacy glass, improved cabin trim, additional USBs, and alternate alloy designs.
- Excel/Dynamic (high): LED headlamps/DRLs, keyless entry/start, heated front seats, power lumbar, blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert (often via Tech Pack), JBL audio option, 18-inch wheels.
Functional differences that matter
- Wheels/tyres change the ride/noise balance. On 18-inch wheels the car feels tauter but transmits more texture; 17-inch sets are quieter and more compliant.
- Lighting: factory LED headlamps markedly improve night confidence and reduce driver fatigue.
- Infotainment: post-facelift head units are faster and often add smartphone mirroring; check that the car has the desired feature set and, where applicable, updated maps/software.
Year-to-year notes (facelift window)
- Late 2019 (MY2020): visual refresh, infotainment upgrade, and chassis/EPAS tune changes; hybrid range widened, but the 1.2T 2WD continues in select markets.
- 2021–2023: packaging updates and special editions. In many countries, the 1.2T line thinned as sales shifted to hybrids; availability by trim became market-specific. Confirm local brochures when shopping.
Safety ratings and equipment
- This C-HR generation holds a five-star Euro NCAP assessment within its rating validity period, with strong adult/child protection and effective active safety.
- Toyota Safety Sense includes AEB with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Alert with steering assist, Road Sign Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control availability that improves on longer trips.
- Calibration after service: any windscreen replacement or front-end repair requires camera/radar calibration. Use OEM-approved glass, follow aim procedures, and verify alignment—to prevent lane-keeping drift and nuisance warnings.
Reliability and service actions
The facelifted 1.2T is fundamentally robust. Most issues are age- or mileage-related rather than design flaws, and many are usage-dependent (short urban trips, salted roads, neglected fluids). Below is a pragmatic map of patterns, grouped by prevalence and cost.
Engine and induction (8NR-FTS)
- Intake valve carbon build-up (direct injection) — Occasional / Medium.
- Symptoms: Rough cold idle, light misfires (P0300 series), hesitation during gentle throttle. Common beyond 60,000–100,000 km, sooner with short-trip use.
- Root cause: DI engines do not wash the valves with fuel; oil mist and EGR particulates stick to valve backs.
- Remedy: Walnut-shell blasting or chemical clean; install fresh iridium plugs and service PCV as needed. Consider periodic induction cleaning in urban duty cycles.
- Wastegate/actuator rattle or under-boost — Occasional / Low–Medium.
- Symptoms: Metallic rattle on lift-off, sporadic under-boost code, reduced mid-range.
- Root cause: Linkage wear or sticking.
- Remedy: Inspect linkage and vacuum routing; adjust or replace actuator. Check for software updates that refine boost control.
- Coolant seep at tees/hoses — Rare / Low.
- Symptoms: Slow reservoir drop, faint sweet smell.
- Remedy: Pressure test, replace the affected hose/clamp, bleed with the correct long-life coolant.
Fuel/ignition
- Coil-on-plug degradation — Occasional / Low–Medium.
- Symptoms: Load-related misfire on one cylinder.
- Remedy: Replace affected coil(s); verify plug condition and correct gap.
Transmission and driveline
- CVT fluid ageing (Toyota CVT FE) — Occasional / Medium.
- Symptoms: Driveline whine, brief flare during brisk throttle, slight take-off shudder around 80,000–120,000 km.
- Remedy: Drain and refill with Toyota CVT Fluid FE, observe temperature-controlled level set, and perform adaptation where applicable. Engine/trans mounts and software updates also influence smoothness.
- Manual clutch wear — Usage-dependent / Medium.
- Symptoms: High bite point, slip in 3rd-gear acceleration.
- Remedy: Clutch kit and release bearing; check rear main seal for seep at the same time.
Chassis and body
- Rear brake corrosion ridges (salted climates) — Common / Low.
- Symptoms: Light scraping, reduced parking-brake bite.
- Remedy: De-lip or replace discs/pads; clean and lube sliders; apply anti-corrosion treatment to edges.
- Cosmetic subframe/fastener corrosion — Occasional / Low.
- Remedy: Clean, treat, and consider annual under-body washes after winter.
HVAC and electronics
- Cabin microfilter neglect → blower noise — Common / Low. Replace yearly.
- ADAS calibration drift after glass work — Occasional / Medium. Calibrate camera/radar; verify EPS thrust angle post-alignment.
Recalls and service campaigns (headlines)
- EPB control logic — On certain early C-HR vehicles, the skid-control ECU logic for the electric parking brake could inhibit application or release. Remedy is a dealer software update.
- Market-specific items — Smaller campaigns (labels, seatbelt components, etc.) may apply. Always run an official VIN recall check and confirm dealer records before purchase.
Pre-purchase checklist
- Full, annual oil service history with the correct 0W-20 spec.
- Evidence of CVT service (by time/mileage) on CVT cars; check for software updates.
- Ignition and induction work (plugs/coils, valve clean) on higher-mileage, urban-duty cars.
- ADAS calibration certificate after windscreen replacement.
- Rear brake condition (inner pad wear) and suspension bushings.
- VIN recall check printout and proof of completion for applicable campaigns.
Maintenance and buyer’s guide
Maintenance schedule (practical guide—verify by VIN/market)
- Engine oil & filter: Every 12 months or 10,000–15,000 km. Use 0W-20 API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF-5/6; ~4.0 L service fill.
- Engine air filter: Inspect 20,000 km, replace 30,000–45,000 km (sooner in dusty use).
- Cabin filter: Replace annually (or more often in urban/pollen seasons).
- Spark plugs (iridium): 90,000–120,000 km or 6–7 years; gap ~0.7–0.8 mm.
- Coolant (S-LLC): First change at 10 years/160,000 km, then 5 years/80,000 km intervals.
- CVT fluid (Toyota CVT FE): Inspect by 60,000–90,000 km; drain/fill if oxidised/dark or on shift-quality complaints.
- Manual gearbox oil: Change 90,000–120,000 km or at clutch service.
- Brake fluid: Replace every 2 years; test moisture content.
- Brakes: Inspect each service; clean/grease slide pins; watch rear disc lips in salted areas.
- Serpentine belt & hoses: Inspect 60,000 km/4 years; replace on noise/cracking or at cooling-system service.
- PCV/induction: Inspect 60,000–90,000 km; clean MAF/throttle body; consider intake valve cleaning if symptoms appear.
- 12 V battery: Test annually after 4 years; voltage stability matters for ADAS.
- Tyres: Rotate 10,000–12,000 km; align if drift/pull or after impacts.
Fluid specs and essentials
- Oil: 0W-20, API SN+/SP, ILSAC GF-5/6 (low-speed pre-ignition protection for small-turbo engines).
- Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink premix).
- CVT: Toyota CVT Fluid FE only; level set at the correct temperature.
- Manual gearbox: Toyota MT Gear Oil LV, API GL-4 75W.
- A/C: R1234yf with ND-11/ND-12 oil; charge mass on the bonnet label (≈470 g typical).
- Essential torques: Wheel lugs ~103 Nm (76 lb-ft); spark plugs ~20–25 Nm (per plug maker).
Buyer’s guide: what to inspect
- Cold start quality: Should settle quickly; normal DI ticking is fine, no hunting idle.
- Boost behaviour: Smooth, linear pull from ~1,500–4,000 rpm; no wastegate buzz on lift-off.
- Transmission feel: CVT should avoid “rubber-band” flare in moderate throttle; MT should shift cleanly with a low-effort clutch.
- Ride/noise: 17-inch tyres yield the calmest long-trip refinement; check for uneven wear (alignment).
- Brakes: Progressive bite, no steering shimmy; inspect rears for corrosion ridges.
- ADAS and lighting: Verify all Toyota Safety Sense functions; inspect LED headlamp beam aim and AHB operation if fitted.
- Body and under-side: Even panel gaps, dry shock-absorber bodies, no subframe rust beyond light surface bloom.
- Paperwork: Regular services, brake fluid changes, any CVT service and software updates, and proof of completed recalls.
Durability outlook
Serviced annually with the correct fluids, the 1.2T C-HR is a low-drama commuter and a relaxed tourer. Suspension and bush wear slowly, braking hardware lasts well with proper cleaning, and interior materials age gracefully. The main long-term watch items are DI valve cleanliness and CVT fluid condition where fitted—both manageable with preventive care.
Driving impressions and economy
Ride and handling
The facelift’s subtle chassis tweaks preserve the C-HR’s big-car calm. It smothers sharp edges better than many rivals yet remains tidy over compressions. The steering is filtered but accurate, with clean self-centring and predictable weighting. On 17-inch tyres, the car is exceptionally settled at motorway speeds; on 18s it turns in a touch quicker but adds texture on coarse asphalt.
Powertrain character
Toyota tunes the 8NR-FTS for torque where you use it, not drama at the redline. Around town, the engine wakes early and stays in its sweet band; the turbo is near-inaudible and lag is minimal in normal use. The 6-MT’s gate is precise and the clutch take-up linear. The CVT calibration post-facelift is improved: light-to-moderate throttle produces near-“fixed ratio” behaviour, and strong throttle triggers assertive virtual downshifts without droning. For overtakes, a decisive pedal input (or a manual downshift) yields brisk 50–80 mph (80–120 km/h) passing for the class.
Braking and stability
Pedal tuning is natural, with good initial bite and consistent feel; repeated hard stops are limited by tyre grip long before fade in everyday road use. Stability control intervenes smoothly on wet junction launches, trimming spin without killing momentum.
Efficiency in the real world
In mixed commuting, expect ~6.0–6.8 L/100 km (39–35 mpg US / 47–42 mpg UK) with careful driving. At a steady 120 km/h (75 mph), ~6.8–7.6 L/100 km is typical depending on wind, gradients, temperature, and tyre compound. Short, cold trips raise consumption; summer temperatures and 17-inch wheels help.
Loads, long trips, and towing
With two adults and luggage, the C-HR remains composed at speed—springs and dampers cope without excessive squat. The lane-keeping assist eases fatigue, and LED lighting improves night-time confidence. Towing is limited and market-specific; if you must tow, stay within the VIN plate rating and budget for a notable fuel-use increase.
C-HR rivals and alternatives
Nissan Qashqai 1.3 DIG-T
Roomier rear quarters and boot, supple low-speed ride, and strong 1.3 turbo performance. The Toyota counters with a quieter cruise, higher perceived interior quality, and a more polished chassis on undulating roads. If you do frequent long trips, the C-HR’s NVH tuning wins.
Renault Captur 1.3 TCe
Captur’s strengths are value and customisation. Its engines are lively, but cabin noise and body control on motorways can trail the C-HR. Toyota’s active safety tuning is less intrusive and its long-term reliability reputation remains an advantage.
SEAT Arona / Ateca small TSI
VAG’s turbo trio delivers crisp throttle response and excellent economy. The Toyota rides with more maturity over broken surfaces and generally feels more “grown up” at 120–130 km/h. Infotainment usability is close; Toyota’s ADAS calibration is especially unobtrusive.
Mazda CX-30 2.0 NA
Smooth, eager naturally aspirated engine and superb driving position. Needs revs for overtakes; the Toyota’s turbo torque is more relaxed. Ride quality and motorway hush slightly favour the C-HR on 17-inch tyres.
Hyundai Kona 1.0/1.6 T-GDi (pre-refresh)
Kona can be quicker in 1.6 form and often undercuts on price. The C-HR’s composure, long-trip refinement, and interior durability offset the pace deficit. Dealer network strength and residual values often favour Toyota.
References
- The New Toyota C-HR 2019 (Press Release)
- the toyota c-hr 2022 (Press Kit)
- Toyota C-HR Technical Specifications 2021 (Technical Specifications)
- Toyota C-HR (2017) – Euro NCAP Result 2017 (Safety Rating)
- Toyota Recall Checker 2023 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional diagnosis or repair. Specifications, torque values, intervals, and procedures vary by VIN, model year, market, and equipment. Always verify against your vehicle’s official service/owner documentation and the latest manufacturer publications before servicing or purchase decisions. If this was useful, please share it with fellow owners on Facebook or X (Twitter) to support xcar’s work.