The Toyota C-HR Hybrid (facelift, 2019–2023) carries over the first-generation TNGA-C platform and couples it with Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid system for a quieter drive and lower fuel consumption than most small crossovers. The 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle 2ZR-FXE petrol engine works with a compact e-motor and planetary eCVT to deliver a modest 122 hp system output, but the calibration prioritises smoothness and real-world economy over straight-line speed. The 2019 update sharpened the steering and suspension tuning, improved cabin refinement, and added standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on European cars. Active safety is a strong suit: Toyota Safety Sense is widely fitted, and structural performance earned top results in European testing when the model launched. If you value reliability, efficiency, and distinctive styling, the facelifted C-HR remains a sensible, easy-to-own choice—provided you are comfortable with a smaller boot than boxier rivals and patient acceleration on motorways.
Fast Facts
- Strong real-world economy for a petrol crossover; refined urban EV creep.
- Proven Toyota hybrid hardware; smooth eCVT and low maintenance needs.
- Comprehensive active safety and driver assists; standard smartphone mirroring.
- Watch for rear visibility and modest cargo space; test child-seat fit.
- Oil service every 10,000–15,000 km (6,000–10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Navigate this guide
- C-HR Hybrid 2019–2023 overview
- Toyota C-HR Hybrid specifications
- C-HR Hybrid trims and safety
- C-HR Hybrid reliability and issues
- Maintenance and buyer’s guide
- Driving and efficiency
- C-HR Hybrid vs rivals
C-HR Hybrid 2019–2023 overview
The facelifted Toyota C-HR Hybrid retains the coupe-crossover silhouette introduced in 2016 and focuses its 2019–2023 update on refinement, infotainment, and driver assistance. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-C architecture (multi-link rear suspension standard), the ZYX10 1.8-litre hybrid pairs an Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine (2ZR-FXE) with a synchronous AC traction motor, a compact NiMH or Li-ion battery (market-dependent; the UK moved the 1.8 to Li-ion with the facelift), and an electronic CVT. The calibration allows near-silent EV creep at low speeds and enables engine-off coasting in traffic, which is central to the C-HR’s excellent urban efficiency.
For 2019 onward, Toyota refined the electric power steering, fitted extra sound deadening in the front wheel arches and around the hybrid transaxle, and updated the infotainment unit with native Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Styling changes are subtle: new bumper designs and LED lighting give a crisper nose and tail while keeping the overall footprint compact enough for Europe’s tight streets and parking bays.
In the cabin you will find supportive front seats, a driver-focused dash with a slightly elevated HMI screen, and a back seat that suits two adults—or a rear-facing child seat with careful setup. Visibility rearward is limited by the dramatic C-pillars and small rear window; the standard reversing camera (and optional parking sensors) are helpful. Luggage space is adequate for a weekly shop or a compact stroller, but some rivals offer squarer, deeper cargo holds.
Safety is a headline strength. The first-gen C-HR achieved a five-star result in European crash testing when introduced, and the facelifted car maintains the underlying structure and restraint strategy while rolling in updated Toyota Safety Sense functions and, in many markets, standard LED headlights.
Toyota C-HR Hybrid specifications
Engine and Performance (ICE-hybrid)
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Code | 2ZR-FXE (Atkinson-cycle) |
| Engine layout & cylinders | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 × 88.3 mm (3.17 × 3.48 in) |
| Displacement | 1.8 L (1,798 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Electronic port fuel injection (PFI) |
| Compression ratio | ~13.0:1 (Atkinson cycle) |
| Max engine power | ~97 hp (72 kW) @ 5,200 rpm |
| Max engine torque | ~142 Nm (105 lb-ft) @ 3,600 rpm |
| Traction motor | Permanent magnet synchronous (front axle) |
| Motor output / torque | ~53 kW (71 hp) / ~163 Nm (120 lb-ft) |
| System output | 122 hp (90 kW) |
| Timing drive | Chain |
| Emissions / efficiency standard | WLTP (Europe) |
| Rated economy (combined) | ~4.8–5.3 L/100 km (49–44 mpg US / 59–53 mpg UK), wheel/tire dependent |
| Real-world highway @120 km/h | ~5.5–6.0 L/100 km (43–39 mpg US / 52–47 mpg UK) |
| Aerodynamics | Cd ~0.32 |
Notes: Final figures vary by wheel size, equipment, and national homologation. The facelift improved NVH and powertrain response but kept the 122 hp system output.
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Electronically controlled eCVT (hybrid transaxle) |
| Gear set | Planetary power-split (engine/motor-generator MG1/MG2) |
| Final drive | ~3.218 (market-dependent) |
| Drive type | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Differential | Open front; electronic brake-based torque control |
| Refuel to full (typical) | ~3–5 minutes at pump |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Platform | TNGA-C (GA-C) |
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson strut / Double wishbone multi-link |
| Steering | Electric power steering; quick ratio (~13–14:1) |
| Brakes (front/rear) | Ventilated disc / Solid disc |
| Wheels/Tyres | 17–19 in; e.g., 215/60 R17 to 225/45 R19 |
| Ground clearance | ~142–155 mm (5.6–6.1 in), wheel-dependent |
| Length / Width / Height | ~4,390 mm / 1,795 mm / 1,555 mm (172.8 / 70.7 / 61.2 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm (103.9 in) |
| Turning circle (kerb-to-kerb) | ~10.4–11.0 m (34.1–36.1 ft) |
| Kerb (curb) weight | ~1,380–1,450 kg (3,042–3,197 lb) |
| GVWR | ~1,860–1,900 kg (4,101–4,189 lb) |
| Fuel tank | 43 L (11.4 US gal / 9.5 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (seats up) | ~377 L VDA (13.3 ft³); more with underfloor space |
| Cargo volume (seats down) | ~1,160 L VDA (41.0 ft³) approx. |
Performance and Capability
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ~11.0 s (wheel/tire dependent) |
| Top speed | ~170 km/h (106 mph) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h | ~38–40 m (125–131 ft), tyre dependent |
| Towing capacity | Typically not rated for braked towing in many EU markets; check VIN |
| Roof load | ~75 kg (165 lb) with OEM bars |
Fluids and Service Capacities
| System | Spec / Grade | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | Toyota-approved 0W-16 (or 0W-20 where specified) | ~4.0–4.2 L (4.2–4.4 US qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (premixed 50:50) | ~5–6 L (5.3–6.3 US qt) total across loops |
| Inverter/e-motor coolant | Toyota SLLC (separate loop) | ~2–3 L (2.1–3.2 US qt) |
| eCVT/transaxle fluid | Toyota ATF WS | ~3.5–4.0 L (3.7–4.2 US qt) drain & fill |
| A/C refrigerant | R-1234yf | ~400–500 g (14–18 oz) typical charge |
| A/C compressor oil | ND-11 | ~100 mL (3.4 fl oz) service fill |
| Wheel lug torque | 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) | |
| Spark plugs | Iridium (IFR5A11 or supersession), gap ~1.0 mm (0.039 in) |
Always confirm capacities and spark plug part numbers against the VIN and the under-bonnet label; some markets used different plug suppliers and small charge variations.
Electrical
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| 12V battery | AGM, ~45–50 Ah (form factor varies by market) |
| Hybrid battery | ~201–216 V nominal; NiMH or Li-ion depending on build |
| Alternator | Not fitted (DC-DC converter from HV battery) |
Safety and Driver Assistance
| Feature / Rating | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crashworthiness | Five-star European rating at launch; structure unchanged for facelift |
| Headlights | LED units widely available; performance varies by grade |
| Airbags | Front, side, curtain, driver’s knee; ISOFIX/LATCH in rear |
| ADAS suite | Pre-collision with pedestrian/cyclist detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, adaptive cruise (speed-adaptive), road sign assist, auto high beam; blind-spot monitor and RCTA available by grade |
| Calibration notes | After windscreen or camera/radar replacement, ADAS calibration is required; many dealers perform static/active calibration procedures |
C-HR Hybrid trims and safety
Trims and key equipment (Europe, facelift years)
Naming varies by country, but you will typically see a four-grade walk with limited mechanical variation—the 1.8 hybrid powertrain and FWD are standard across the board.
- Entry (Icon/Active): 17-inch wheels, manual air-con or dual-zone climate (market-dependent), rear camera, 8-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Toyota Safety Sense (PCS, LDA with Steering Assist, ACC, RSA, AHB).
- Mid (Design/Dynamic): 18-inch wheels, privacy glass, LED headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, fabric/synthetic upholstery, navigation optional or via smartphone mirroring.
- Upper (Excel/Style): Full LED lights, heated seats, blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert, smart entry, upgraded audio.
- Sport (GR SPORT): 19-inch wheels with specific tyre compound, retuned EPS mapping, black exterior accents, sports seats, red or dark trim highlights.
Functional differences by trim
Mechanically, the trims share the same powertrain and suspension hardware. Larger wheels (18–19 in) add visual drama but reduce ride compliance and slightly dent economy. The GR SPORT’s alignment tweaks and tyres improve turn-in without altering springs or dampers.
Year-to-year changes (facelift window)
- Late 2019 (MY2020): Facelift arrives with enhanced chassis tuning, improved NVH, and smartphone mirroring standard; 1.8 hybrid battery chemistry move to Li-ion in several markets; expanded Toyota Safety Sense features.
- 2021–2022: Minor feature shuffle; GR SPORT grade availability grows; additional connected services roll-out (market-dependent).
- 2023 run-out: Equipment rationalisation ahead of second-generation model; colours and pack availability simplified.
Safety ratings and bodies
The underlying structure that achieved a top European rating at introduction is carried into the facelift. Occupant protection, child-seat anchor geometry, and active safety technology remain competitive in class. Do note that headlight performance and some ADAS functions can vary by grade and wheel/tyre choice; larger wheels may lengthen stopping distances on rough surfaces.
Child-seat and cargo notes
The rear doors open wide, and ISOFIX anchor access is good, but the sloping roof can complicate installing taller rear-facing seats. The boot’s height is modest; a compact stroller fits best with a wheel removed or the parcel shelf stowed.
C-HR Hybrid reliability and issues
Toyota’s hybrid hardware has a long track record for durability when serviced on time. The facelifted C-HR Hybrid continues that pattern, but any used example deserves a careful inspection. Below is a practical map of known concerns grouped by prevalence and cost impact.
Common (low to medium severity/cost)
- 12V battery ageing → Symptoms: slow cranking of ancillaries, warning messages at start. Cause: short-trip use and infrequent long drives. Remedy: test with a mid-load conductance tester; replace around the 5–7-year mark; keep terminals clean and ensure DC-DC charging profile is within spec.
- Brake pad corrosion and uneven wear → Symptoms: brake rumble after rain, surface rust on discs. Cause: high regen usage leads to low friction-brake use. Remedy: periodic “bedding” stops from 80–100 km/h to clean discs; inspect sliders; replace pads/discs as required.
- Tyre shoulder wear on 18–19 in fitments → Symptoms: outer-edge scrub, tramlining. Cause: aggressive geometry and low profile tyres. Remedy: rotate every 10,000 km; maintain 0.2–0.3 bar (3–4 psi) over placard for motorway use; align annually.
Occasional (medium severity/cost)
- Front strut top-mount noise → Symptoms: clunk over speed bumps. Cause: worn top-mount bearings. Remedy: replace bearings/top mounts; inspect drop links.
- Infotainment glitches (early facelift software) → Symptoms: CarPlay handshake issues, Bluetooth dropouts. Cause: early MM19 software. Remedy: head unit software update; many dealers perform during service.
- HV battery fan clogged → Symptoms: audible fan, reduced EV assist in hot weather. Cause: dust/pet hair in intake. Remedy: clean intake grille and fan; quick trim removal required.
Rare (higher severity/cost)
- Coolant pump seepage (engine loop) → Symptoms: pink residue at pump weep hole. Remedy: replace pump and gasket; refill/bleed with Toyota SLLC.
- eCVT transaxle bearing noise → Symptoms: high-frequency whine under load. Remedy: fluid check for debris; transaxle replacement or rebuild in severe cases (uncommon with regular ATF WS changes).
- Front wheel-bearing hum → Symptoms: speed-linked growl. Remedy: hub/bearing replacement; verify tyre noise first on coarse asphalt.
Software and calibrations
- ADAS (camera/radar) recalibration is required after windscreen and front-bumper repairs or alignment changes beyond spec.
- Infotainment (MM19) received several updates that improved smartphone integration and navigation stability; ensure the latest software is loaded.
Corrosion hotspots
- Rear subframe and trailing-edge seams accumulate winter road grit; wash underbody after salted-road use.
- Tailgate lower lip and hatch opening channel—keep drains clear to prevent water sitting in the seam.
Pre-purchase requests
- Full service history with hybrid system health checks recorded.
- Proof of any recall or service campaign work and ADAS calibrations after glass/bumper repairs.
- Evidence of recent brake service (clean/slide/pad measurements) and cabin filter replacement (helps HV battery fan cleanliness).
Maintenance and buyer’s guide
Practical maintenance schedule (typical Europe, verify by VIN)
- Engine oil and filter: Every 10,000–15,000 km (6,000–10,000 miles) or 12 months; 0W-16 (or 0W-20 where specified).
- Engine air filter: Inspect 15,000 km; replace 30,000–45,000 km depending on environment.
- Cabin air filter: Replace 15,000–20,000 km (annually) to protect the HV battery fan and A/C evaporator.
- Spark plugs (iridium): Replace at ~120,000–150,000 km (75,000–93,000 miles).
- Coolant (engine and inverter loops): First change ~10 years/160,000 km, then every 5 years/100,000 km.
- Hybrid transaxle (ATF WS): Drain & fill around 90,000–120,000 km for longevity, even if not listed as routine.
- Brake fluid: Replace every 2 years regardless of mileage.
- Brake inspection: Clean and lubricate slide pins annually; measure pad thickness.
- Tyres: Rotate every 10,000 km, check alignment yearly, adjust pressures for load/speed.
- Auxiliary belts and hoses: Inspect at each service; replace on condition.
- 12V battery: Test annually after year 3; typical life 5–7 years.
- HV system: Visual checks of orange-cabled harness, battery vent intake cleaning at service; full state-of-health test via dealer hybrid check program.
Fluid specifications and essentials
- Oil: Toyota-approved API SN/RC or newer, 0W-16 (preferred) or 0W-20 where listed; ~4.0–4.2 L with filter.
- Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink); premixed 50:50.
- ATF: Toyota ATF WS only.
- A/C: R-1234yf refrigerant, ND-11 oil (electric compressor compatible).
- Critical torques: Wheel lugs 103 Nm; spark plugs ~18–22 Nm with anti-seize not recommended on plated plugs; front caliper slider bolts ~25–35 Nm (verify per VIN).
DIY-friendly items
- Engine and cabin filters are easily accessed with basic tools.
- The hybrid’s brake pads last longer with regen, but keep them exercised to avoid rotor corrosion.
- If storing the car, use “Ready” mode weekly to maintain the 12V battery via DC-DC and prevent stale fuel.
Buyer’s guide (used 2019–2023)
- Inspect: Front tyres for shoulder wear, discs for corrosion, windscreen for chips (ADAS camera calibration costs), and rear hatch seams for trapped debris.
- Electrics: Confirm CarPlay/Android Auto works reliably; check all parking sensors and cameras; verify the keyless entry sensors on both front doors.
- Road test: Listen for front-end clunks over speed humps; ensure the engine transitions on/off smoothly and that the hybrid indicator shows normal charge/discharge behaviour.
- Papers: Seek proof of regular oil services, brake fluid changes, and hybrid health checks; verify recall completion via official channels.
- Trims to favour: Mid to upper grades (Design/Excel or national equivalents) balance equipment (LED lights, parking aids) with sensible wheel sizes. GR SPORT rides firmer; try before you buy if roads are rough.
Durability outlook
With timely services and gentle heat-management of the HV system (clean fan intake, intact undertrays), the ZYX10 1.8 hybrid routinely covers high mileages with minimal unscheduled repairs. Consumables—tyres and brakes—dominate running costs. Expect very good fuel economy in urban and mixed use and lower-than-average depreciation due to strong demand for reliable hybrids.
Driving and efficiency
Ride, handling, and NVH
The GA-C chassis uses a multi-link rear suspension unusual at this price point. The car feels planted at motorway speeds and takes a set predictably through sweeping bends. Steering is light in town and stabilises nicely on centre above 80 km/h. The facelift’s added sound insulation reduces road roar over coarse surfaces, particularly with 17-inch wheels. On 19-inch tyres the C-HR looks great but transmits sharp-edged bumps more readily.
Powertrain character
This hybrid prioritises smoothness and economy. In city traffic, the e-motor does the heavy lifting up to neighbourhood speeds; the petrol engine wakes quietly and holds low rpm under gentle throttle. Press on and you will hear a familiar eCVT “flare” as the system targets efficient rpm; Toyota’s latest mapping softens this effect versus older hybrids. Throttle response in Normal mode is progressive; Eco dulls tip-in for efficiency, while Power sharpens response for short merges.
Brakes and pedal feel
Regenerative braking blends seamlessly into the hydraulic system once pads engage; the pedal is consistent after a short acclimation period. Long downhill descents are handled well; battery saturation is rare in cool weather but may occur in hot, mountainous driving, at which point the system leans more on friction brakes.
Efficiency—real world
Owners see 4.8–5.3 L/100 km (49–44 mpg US / 59–53 mpg UK) combined in temperate climates on 17-inch wheels, with 5.5–6.0 L/100 km (43–39 mpg US / 52–47 mpg UK) at a steady 120 km/h motorway cruise. Winter use and frequent short trips add 10–20% consumption, chiefly due to cabin heating demands; using seat heaters and the steering-wheel heater (if fitted) helps. Urban delivery driving with gentle acceleration often betters the official rating thanks to extended EV creep and frequent engine-off coasting.
Performance metrics
The 122 hp system produces 0–100 km/h in about 11 seconds; rolling 80–120 km/h takes forethought for short overtakes. Plan a down-slope or leave extra room on single-carriageway passes. Braking from 100–0 km/h in ~38–40 m is competitive on quality tyres. Turning circles of ~10.4–11.0 m make parking easy; mind the protruding rear quarters when reversing.
Traction and control
European 1.8 hybrids are front-drive only. Traction control intervenes smoothly on slick climbs; winter tyres transform confidence. Snow modes are not typical on 1.8 models; drive with a light foot and consider narrower winter wheels for deep snow. Hill-hold and brake-hold functions reduce creep on slopes.
C-HR Hybrid vs rivals
Against Renault Captur E-Tech Full Hybrid (145 hp)
The Captur offers a roomier rear seat and boot with similar combined outputs. Its multi-mode hybrid gearbox delivers stronger initial step-off but is less polished in transitions. Toyota’s eCVT is quieter and more intuitive; the C-HR’s cabin materials feel more substantial.
Against Hyundai Kona Hybrid (141 hp, first gen)
Kona Hybrid matches Toyota’s economy and adds longer warranties in some markets. Steering and body control are comparable, but the C-HR’s multi-link rear suspension lends better composure over broken tarmac. Kona’s upright body yields more cargo space; the Toyota counters with a more premium ambience.
Against Nissan Juke (non-hybrid or mild hybrid)
Juke feels lighter on its feet and offers playful design, but economy trails Toyota’s full hybrid. The C-HR rides more maturely on long journeys and includes a stronger active-safety suite as standard across trims.
Bottom line
If you value refinement, active safety, and urban economy, the facelifted C-HR Hybrid stands out. If you need maximum rear headroom or a boxy boot, test the Kona Hybrid or a non-hybrid crossover with a squarer tailgate.
References
- Toyota C-HR – First generation (2016) – technical details and specifications 2016 (Technical Specifications)
- 2017 New Toyota C-HR awarded top five-star rating in Euro NCAP safety testing 2017 (Safety Rating)
- Toyota announces specifications and prices for its new, all-hybrid C-HR crossover 2019 (Press Information)
- Toyota C-HR Navigation and Multimedia System Owner’s Manual (MM19) (OM12M07E) 2019 (Owner’s Manual)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or the official service literature for your specific vehicle. Specifications, torque values, service intervals, and procedures vary by VIN, market, model year, and equipment. Always verify against your vehicle’s official owner’s manual, service manual, and dealer bulletins before performing maintenance or repairs.
If you found this helpful, please consider sharing it on Facebook or X/Twitter to support xcar’s work—thank you.