The second-generation Toyota C-HR Hybrid (ZYX20) pairs a 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE Atkinson-cycle engine with Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system to deliver smooth, low-stress urban driving and easy highway manners. Power rises to 140 hp (103 kW) versus earlier 1.8 hybrids, while the new lithium-ion battery and refined e-CVT improve response and efficiency. A stiffer TNGA platform, double-wishbone rear suspension, and carefully tuned steering help the C-HR feel planted without sacrificing ride comfort. Inside, you get improved seats, calmer noise levels, and modern infotainment with the latest Toyota Safety Sense. For most buyers, the Hybrid 140 hits an appealing balance of running costs and performance, though luggage space and rear visibility remain modest. If you want a distinctive compact crossover that prioritises day-to-day usability and low fuel consumption, this configuration is the heart of the range—and the one most owners should shortlist first.
Fast Facts
- Strong town efficiency and calm e-CVT response; relaxed at motorway speeds.
- Tight turning circle and composed ride from TNGA chassis with multi-link rear.
- Comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense; five-star European crash performance.
- Watch for multimedia and cluster software updates; ensure recall checks are current.
- Typical service cadence: every 10,000 miles / 12 months (oil, inspection, hybrid checks).
Navigate this guide
- C-HR Hybrid 1.8 overview
- C-HR 1.8 specs and data
- Trims, options, and safety
- Reliability and known issues
- Maintenance and buyer’s guide
- Driving and real-world economy
- How it compares to rivals
C-HR Hybrid 1.8 overview
Toyota’s current C-HR Hybrid 140 centres on a thoroughly updated 1.8-litre hybrid system (2ZR-FXE plus a stronger MG2 traction motor and lithium-ion battery) tuned for European roads. System output is 140 hp (103 kW); the engine itself is rated at 97–98 hp (72 kW) and 142 Nm, with the electric motor supplying up to 70 kW and 185 Nm for step-off shove and low-speed blending. The e-CVT is the familiar Toyota planetary hybrid transaxle, revised with lower losses and smarter control logic. Notable day-to-day gains include crisper throttle mapping, steadier rev behaviour under load, and better hill logic that prevents flaring on gradients.
Dimensionally, the C-HR sits in the heart of the “small SUV” class yet feels tidy in town thanks to short overhangs and a compact 5.8 m body turning radius (5.5 m tyre). The rear suspension switches to a double-wishbone layout across the range, contributing to calm secondary ride over broken surfaces. A 0.318 drag coefficient, flush detailing, and the removal of the rear wiper (the screen is angled to shed water) help aero and noise.
Efficiency is the main play: combined WLTP figures for the Hybrid 140 start from roughly 4.7–4.9 L/100 km (≈ 60 mpg UK / 50 mpg US, dependent on wheel/tire and trim). Real-world drivers routinely match those numbers in mixed commuting if they avoid short, cold starts and keep tyres at spec. On the performance side, 0–100 km/h is about ten seconds with a 170 km/h top speed—enough for confident merges and overtakes without chasing revs.
Inside, the layout and materials feel more premium than the class average, with supportive front seats and improved ergonomics. Toyota’s latest multimedia platform finally catches up on responsiveness and over-the-air update capability. Toyota Safety Sense becomes more expansive (pedestrian/cyclist/motorcyclist detection, lane support, speed assistance), aligning the C-HR with class leaders on crash avoidance. If you need maximum cargo or a panoramic rear view, rivals may serve you better; if you value low running costs, predictable reliability, and “fit-and-forget” hybrid hardware, the 1.8 Hybrid is a sweet spot.
C-HR 1.8 specs and data
Powertrain & Efficiency (Hybrid HEV)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Code | 2ZR-FXE + MG2 (Hybrid 140) |
| Engine layout & cylinders | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve; VVT-i |
| Valves/cyl | 4 |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 × 88.3 mm (3.17 × 3.48 in) |
| Displacement | 1.8 L (1,798 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated (Atkinson cycle) |
| Fuel system | Electronic fuel injection |
| Compression ratio (ICE) | 13.0:1 |
| Max engine power | 97–98 hp (72 kW) @ 5,200 rpm |
| Max engine torque | 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) @ 3,600–4,000 rpm |
| Traction motor (MG2) | Permanent-magnet synchronous; 70 kW; 185 Nm |
| System output | 140 hp (103 kW) |
| Hybrid battery | Lithium-ion, ~600 V nominal, 56 cells |
| Emissions/efficiency std | Euro 6 (WLTP) |
| Rated combined WLTP | from ≈ 4.7–4.9 L/100 km (≈ 50–60 mpg US / 60–72 mpg UK) |
| Real-world highway @ 120 km/h | ~5.4–5.8 L/100 km (≈ 41–44 mpg US / 49–53 mpg UK) typical on 18–19″ tyres |
| Aerodynamics | Cd 0.318 |
Transmission & Driveline
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transmission | e-CVT hybrid transaxle |
| Differential/final | 3.016 |
| Drive type | FWD |
| Differential | Open (brake-actuated traction control) |
| Refuel to full | ~5 min at the pump (43 L tank) |
Chassis & Dimensions
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson strut / Double wishbone |
| Steering | Electric power steering; 2.65 turns lock-to-lock |
| Brakes | Front ventilated discs (16″ calipers on Hybrid 140); rear solid discs; EPB |
| Wheels/Tyres | 17″: 215/60 R17; 18″: 225/55 R18; 19″: 225/50 R19 |
| Ground clearance | 161 mm (6.3 in) |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,362 / 1,832 / 1,564 mm (171.7 / 72.1 / 61.6 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm (103.9 in) |
| Turning circle (kerb-to-kerb) | 5.8 m (19.0 ft) body; 5.5 m (18.0 ft) tyre |
| Kerb (curb) weight | 1,430–1,490 kg (3,153–3,285 lb) depending on trim |
| GVWR | 1,930 kg (4,255 lb) |
| Fuel tank | 43 L (11.4 US gal / 9.5 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (to tonneau) | 388 L (13.7 ft³) seats up (HEV) |
Performance & Capability
| Metric | Hybrid 140 (1.8) |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ~10.2 s |
| Top speed | ~170 km/h (106 mph) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h | Typical class result ~36–38 m on 18–19″ tyres (dry) |
| Towing capacity | 725 kg (1,598 lb) braked / 725 kg unbraked |
| Payload | ≈ 440–500 kg depending on trim |
| Roof load | Check bar rating; typical compact-SUV limit 50–75 kg—use homologated system |
Fluids & Service Capacities
| System | Specification | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | API/ILSAC GF-6 0W-16 (preferred) or 0W-20 where specified | ~4.2 L (4.4 US qt) incl. filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) | ~5.5 L engine + ~1.5 L inverter loop |
| Hybrid transaxle | Toyota e-Transaxle Fluid TE | ~3.0 L |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 / DOT 4 | Fill to “MAX” |
| A/C refrigerant | R-1234yf | Charge by weight per label (typical ~400–500 g) |
| Key torque examples | Wheel nuts 103 Nm (76 lb-ft); drain plugs ~39–40 Nm (varies by unit) |
Electrical
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| 12 V battery | AGM or EFB; typical 45–55 Ah (verify form factor by trim) |
| Alternator | N/A (DC-DC converter from hybrid system) |
| Spark plugs | Iridium, long-life; gap set to spec at replacement |
Safety & Driver Assistance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Euro NCAP (2024) | Five stars; Adult ~85%, Child ~86%, VRU ~86%, Safety Assist ~79% |
| Headlights | Adaptive LEDs available; beam performance varies by trim |
| ADAS suite | Pre-Collision (vehicles/pedestrians/cyclists/motorcyclists), Adaptive Cruise, Lane Trace/Lane Keep, Road Sign Assist, Blind-Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert/Brake, Parking Support Brake; availability standard/optional by grade |
Notes: Performance, economy, weight and braking vary with wheels/tyres, options and test method. Always confirm fluid grades by VIN and under-bonnet labels.
Trims, options, and safety
Trims and options (typical European range)
Naming varies by market, but the structure commonly includes a mid-spec “Design” (or similar), a comfort-oriented “Excel”/“Iconic”, and a sport-styled “GR Sport.” All offer the Hybrid 140; some markets also pair larger wheels, contrasting roof, and premium audio. Key mechanical changes by trim:
- Brakes: Hybrid 140 uses 16″ front calipers/ventilated discs across trims; upper grades with 19–20″ wheels may adopt larger calipers on higher-output variants, but the 1.8 keeps the same hardware.
- Steering/Suspension: Geometry is shared; different wheel/tire packages subtly change ride/noise and on-centre feel.
- Wheels/Tires: 17″ deliver the best ride/efficiency; 18″ are a balanced choice; 19″ prioritise stance/response with a small economy penalty.
- Seats/Interior: Heated front seats common from mid-trims; electric driver’s seat and memory on top grades; GR Sport adds firmer bolsters and darker trim.
- Infotainment/Audio: 8–12.3″ displays depending on grade; high-spec models add a 12.3″ driver display and premium audio. Confirm wireless smartphone integration and OTA update support on your target year/trim.
- Lighting: LED headlamps standard; adaptive matrix LEDs on higher trims, improving motorway and rural visibility.
Year-to-year changes (Hybrid 140)
- 2023 launch: New platform iteration, lithium-ion battery, stronger MG2, latest Safety Sense, improved aero and NVH.
- 2024 model year: Software refinements for multimedia and driver display; additional driver-assist tuning and feature bundling; availability of contrasting roof and extra colourways expands.
- 2025 model year: Rolling software campaigns (infotainment/cluster) and minor option package reshuffles in several markets; Safety Sense feature updates may become standard on lower trims.
Safety ratings
The current C-HR achieves a five-star European rating with strong side-impact results and very good whiplash performance. Child-occupant protection scores are high; vulnerable-road-user protections and Safety Assist scores reflect robust AEB performance for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. Isofix/i-Size provisions are present on the rear outboard seats, and a centre airbag mitigates far-side collisions.
Safety systems and ADAS
Every C-HR Hybrid 140 includes Toyota Safety Sense with forward collision warning and AEB (day/night pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus motorcyclist scenarios), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist with steering input, Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist, Intelligent Speed Limiter, tyre-pressure monitoring, and a full airbag set including a centre airbag. Mid/upper grades add Blind-Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert/Brake, Parking Support Brake (front/rear), and 360° camera with parking guidance. After glass, bumper, radar or camera service, plan for ADAS calibration and a road test; alignment and tyre size must match spec for reliable lane-keeping and AEB performance.
Reliability and known issues
Toyota’s 2ZR-FXE hybrid powertrain has a long service record for durability when maintained on time with the correct low-viscosity oil and fresh coolant. The fifth-generation system in the ZYX20 largely builds on that reputation. Still, informed buyers should understand typical patterns:
Powertrain & hybrid system
- Normal behaviour vs. faults: The e-CVT holds steady revs at moderate throttle—this is normal. Abnormal symptoms include shuddering under light throttle, warning lights with reduced power, or hybrid cooling fans running loudly. Common triggers are aged 12 V batteries causing low system voltage, clogged engine or cabin filters, or damaged wheel-speed sensor wiring after brake work. Remedy: test/replace the 12 V battery, clean/replace filters, scan for codes (hybrid system, ABS, power management), and inspect harness routing.
- Inverter/e-motor cooling: The hybrid electronics have a separate coolant loop. Low coolant or air pockets after service can cause overheat warnings—always vacuum-fill and bleed to factory procedure.
- Oil specification: Using heavier oils than specified (e.g., 5W-30) can reduce economy and aggravate cold-start NVH. Stick to 0W-16/0W-20 per service doc for climate.
Chassis & NVH
- Wheel/tire effects: 19″ wheels increase impact harshness and road noise versus 17–18″. If you commute over broken urban surfaces, the 18″ package is a smart compromise.
- Brake feel/noise: Hybrids blend regen with friction braking. Occasional light surface corrosion and low-speed squeal can appear after damp storage—perform several medium stops from 60–80 km/h to refresh the discs, and keep the rear sliders greased at annual service.
Electronics & software
- Multimedia and cluster campaigns: Several software updates have rolled out for the 12.3″ displays and instrument clusters to address stability/blank-screen and memory-wear conditions; ensure your candidate vehicle shows all updates applied in dealer history.
- ADAS camera/radar alignment: Windscreen replacement and bumper repairs require calibration; pulling to one side or lane-keeping warnings after bodywork often indicate missed calibration or incorrect thrust angle.
Body & corrosion
- The ZYX20 uses extensive galvanisation and composite panels; structural corrosion is rare in the first decade when drains are kept clear and accident repairs are sealed correctly. Focus checks on rear subframe fasteners, exhaust hangers, and tailgate seams—salt and moisture can accumulate there.
Recalls, TSBs, extended coverage
- Toyota maintains an official VIN recall checker. Ask the seller for a printed dealer record showing all recalls and customer satisfaction programs completed.
- Expect rolling software and component campaigns for multimedia/cluster programming and parking support brake logic. These are quick dealer updates; completion status matters for resale and day-to-day convenience.
Pre-purchase checks
- Full service history with annual oil changes documented.
- Proof of hybrid coolant health and any brake-fluid change (every two years is typical best practice).
- Scan report showing no active DTCs in hybrid/ABS/ADAS modules.
- Tyres in matched sets with correct load/speed rating; alignment print-out desirable.
- Cabin and engine air filters replaced within the last 12 months; clean hybrid battery intake duct.
- Fit and finish around the windscreen and front bumper (ADAS sensors) after any repairs; calibration documents on file.
Maintenance and buyer’s guide
Practical maintenance schedule (distance/time whichever comes first)
- Engine oil & filter: Every 10,000 miles / 12 months; 0W-16 (preferred) or 0W-20 meeting the latest API/ILSAC; capacity ~4.2 L with filter.
- Engine air filter: Inspect at 10,000 miles; replace 20,000–30,000 miles depending on environment.
- Cabin filter: Replace 12 months / 10,000 miles (more often in urban/pollen seasons).
- Coolant (engine & hybrid loops): Toyota SLLC typically at 100,000 miles / 10 years initial, then 50,000 miles / 5 years; check concentration and level annually.
- Spark plugs (iridium): 120,000–150,000 km (75,000–93,000 miles) typical; verify by VIN in service docs.
- Fuel filter: In-tank; no routine replacement unless pressure/flow faults.
- Hybrid transaxle fluid: Not always listed as periodic; inspect at 60,000 miles, replace 60,000–100,000 miles for longevity (Toyota e-Transaxle Fluid TE).
- Brake fluid: Replace every 2 years; hybrid brake boosters are sensitive to moisture content.
- Brake pads/rotors: Inspect at each service; schedule descaling drive after winter to clear surface corrosion.
- Serpentine/aux belts & hoses: Inspect annually; replace on condition.
- Tyre rotation & alignment: Rotate 10,000 miles; alignment check annually or if uneven wear/ADAS alerts appear.
- 12 V battery: Test annually from year 3; common replacement window 4–6 years.
- HV/battery health: Hybrid system self-monitors; request a dealer Hybrid Health Check yearly (often included with service and may link to extended warranty in some regions).
Fluid specifications and essentials
- Oil: API SP / ILSAC GF-6A/6B 0W-16 (or 0W-20 where specified), ~4.2 L including filter.
- Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink), premixed; engine loop ~5.5 L, inverter loop ~1.5 L.
- Transaxle: Toyota e-Transaxle Fluid TE, ~3.0 L.
- A/C: R-1234yf; charge by label; use the specified compressor oil type and quantity for the model year.
- Key torques: Wheel nuts 103 Nm; engine drain plug typically 39–40 Nm; always confirm per VIN.
Buyer’s guide: what to look for
- Service history: Annual stamps, correct oil grade, and brake-fluid entries every two years are green flags.
- Software status: Ask the dealer to confirm multimedia/cluster updates and any ADAS calibration records.
- Tyres/wheels: 19″ sets look sharp but cost more and ride firmer; 17–18″ are the efficiency and comfort picks.
- Cargo and practicality: 388 L boot with the tonneau in place is fine for a compact crossover; verify that the split floor and load lip meet your needs.
- Test drive checklist:
- Cold start smoothness and engine warm-up behaviour.
- Steering tracking on a straight road (indicates alignment/ADAS calibration).
- Brake transition feel from regen to friction in stop-and-go.
- Infotainment responsiveness and camera clarity in low light.
Recommended configurations
- Most buyers: Hybrid 140 on 18″ wheels, mid-trim with Safety Sense, heated seats, and parking aids.
- Long motorway users or hilly regions: Consider the 2.0 Hybrid for stronger mid-range, but weigh the economy dip and tyre cost.
- Urban focus: 17″ wheels, cloth seats, and the standard audio—quiet, efficient, and inexpensive to keep.
Long-term outlook
With simple, proven hybrid hardware, conservative tune, and widely available parts, the Hybrid 140 is engineered for 10+ year / 150,000+ mile life with routine care. Keeping fluids fresh and software current pays dividends in both reliability and resale.
Driving and real-world economy
Ride, handling, NVH
The ZYX20 feels taut but not brittle. The double-wishbone rear end sits the body down over mid-corner bumps without the hop some torsion-beam rivals show. Straight-line stability is excellent; the car tracks accurately with a light but consistent steering effort in Normal mode, weighting up a touch in Sport. At urban speeds, secondary ride is plushest on 17–18″ tyres; 19″ improve initial turn-in but add thump and a bit more texture on coarse surfaces. Wind hush is restrained by the 0.318 Cd and careful mirror/door sealing. Engine presence in the cabin is lower than past Toyota hybrids thanks to revised pedal mapping and reduced motorway rpm.
Powertrain character
The 2ZR-FXE is all about efficiency; step-off is handled by the electric motor, so the car feels brisk off the line. Past city speeds, the e-CVT blends the engine in calmly; climbing grades now hold revs steadier with the latest hill logic, and throttle tip-in matches requested acceleration more faithfully than older systems. Transitions between EV and ICE are usually seamless; brief shudder suggests plugs or mounts due for inspection, or old 12 V battery causing idle instability.
Efficiency and range (observed)
- City (20–40 mph / 30–60 km/h): 3.9–4.5 L/100 km (72–60 mpg US / 86–72 mpg UK) with gentle inputs and warm weather.
- Mixed commuting: 4.6–5.2 L/100 km (51–45 mpg US / 61–54 mpg UK) on 18–19″ tyres.
- Motorway (100–120 km/h / 60–75 mph): ~5.4–5.8 L/100 km (44–41 mpg US / 53–49 mpg UK) depending on wind/grade.
- Cold weather delta: Add +0.5–0.8 L/100 km (−4 to −2 mpg US) for short trips below 5°C until warm-up completes.
These figures align closely with WLTP combined numbers when driven smoothly and tyres are at placard pressure.
Selective performance metrics
- 0–60 mph / 0–100 km/h: ≈ 9.9–10.2 s (Hybrid 140, 18–19″ wheels).
- 80–120 km/h (50–75 mph) pass: Sufficient in Normal; quicker response in Sport to hold gearing.
- 100–0 km/h braking: Mid-30s metres on quality tyres; repeatability is good with minimal fade due to regen assist.
- Turning circle: 5.8 m body/5.5 m tyre helps with tight urban parking.
Traction and control
FWD with brake-based traction control is adequate for wet and light snow on all-season tyres. If you routinely face heavy snow, winter tyres transform take-off and braking confidence. Stability control is well-calibrated; Sport mode relaxes intervention slightly without becoming intrusive.
Load and towing
The Hybrid 140 is rated to 725 kg braked/unbraked. Expect a 10–20% economy penalty with a small trailer or full cabin plus luggage; plan longer stopping distances and consider friction-brake maintenance earlier due to reduced regen headroom when loaded.
How it compares to rivals
Against Nissan Juke Hybrid
Toyota’s system is smoother and generally more efficient in mixed use. The Juke’s cabin packaging is competitive and its multi-mode hybrid can feel a touch more “mechanical,” with the Toyota offering calmer EV-like creep and transitions. C-HR cabin quality and ADAS breadth edge ahead.
Against Renault Captur E-Tech Hybrid
Captur can be thriftier in ideal city cycles, but its dog-clutch-based hybrid sometimes draws attention to itself with gear changes. Toyota’s e-CVT is more consistent, and long-term durability plus dealership coverage often sway buyers to the C-HR.
Against Hyundai Kona Hybrid
Kona Hybrid is a value and warranty champion with a lighter-feeling chassis. The C-HR’s steering precision and ride polish feel more mature, and Toyota’s ADAS tuning and camera quality are strong. Economy is a wash; tyres and wheel size decide the winner.
Against VW T-Roc 1.5 eTSI (mild hybrid)
The T-Roc offers punchier motorway response but can’t match Toyota’s city consumption. C-HR rides more quietly in day-to-day use; VW infotainment can feel fussier to operate while driving.
Bottom line
If you prize low running costs, set-and-forget reliability, and a premium-leaning drive feel in a compact footprint, the C-HR Hybrid 140 is a top-tier choice. If you need a bigger boot or frequent high-load motorway performance, consider stepping up a segment—or move to the 2.0 Hybrid with the understanding that tyres and fuel use climb modestly.
References
- TOYOTA C-HR TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 2024 (Technical Specs)
- THE ALL-NEW TOYOTA C-HR 2024 (Press Pack)
- Toyota C-HR 2024 (Safety Rating)
- Owner’s Manual 2025 (Owner’s Manual)
- Recalls | Owners 2025 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or your vehicle’s official documentation. Specifications, torque values, service procedures, and maintenance intervals can vary by VIN, model year, market, and equipment. Always verify details against your official owner’s manual and service literature, and consult a qualified technician for inspection, calibration, and repair work.
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