The Toyota C-HR has always stood out thanks to its bold design and solid hybrid tech. Now, there’s a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, giving you more electric-only range, lower running costs, and better performance. But while it ticks plenty of boxes for company car drivers and city commuters, it’s not the most practical choice for families – and the price might raise some eyebrows.
Performance and Everyday Driving
The C-HR PHEV pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a 13.6kWh battery, giving a total output of 220bhp. That means 0–62mph in 7.4 seconds – noticeably quicker than the standard hybrid models – and it feels more than quick enough in everyday driving.
It’s smooth and quiet when cruising, especially around town where the electric motor does most of the work. The automatic gearbox (a CVT) is fine for gentle driving, but like other hybrids, it can make the engine rev quite hard if you accelerate briskly. That said, the electric boost helps reduce this a fair bit.
The steering is sharp, and the suspension is well balanced. The C-HR feels planted through corners and comfortable over rough roads. It’s not especially fun, but it’s relaxed, predictable, and easy to live with – which is what most buyers will want.
Electric Range and Charging
Toyota claims the C-HR PHEV can do up to 41 miles on electric power alone. In the real world, expect something closer to 30–36 miles depending on the weather and how you drive. That’s still enough for most local journeys and daily commutes without using any petrol.
Charging is fairly straightforward:
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A home wallbox will charge it in about 2.5 hours (at 6.6kW)
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A regular three-pin plug takes around 7 hours
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There’s no rapid charging option (DC), so this is very much a plug-in for overnight top-ups
Frustratingly, you have to pay extra for a Type 2 cable to use most home and public charge points.
Space and Practicality
This is where the C-HR PHEV starts to lose ground.
Front-seat space is decent, and the driving position is comfortable once you’re set up. But the back seats are cramped, with limited legroom and small windows that make it feel quite dark. If you go for the higher trims, you get a panoramic roof, which helps brighten things up.
The boot is also on the small side. Because of the larger battery and packaging changes, the PHEV has just 310 litres of luggage space. That’s less than the hybrid C-HR and quite a bit smaller than many rivals. If you’ve got kids, a dog, or regularly carry bulky stuff, this could be a dealbreaker.
Interior and Tech
Inside, the C-HR feels modern and well built. The dashboard wraps around the driver, and the 12.3-inch touchscreen and matching digital instrument display look sharp and are easy to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, and the graphics are a big improvement on older Toyota systems.
There are a few fiddly buttons and steering wheel controls, but overall, it’s user-friendly and feels like a step up in quality. The Excel and GR Sport trims add nicer materials, a panoramic roof, and features like sports seats and head-up display.
Toyota’s “geo-fencing” system can even save electric power for low-emission zones using the sat-nav, which is a clever touch.
Verdict
The Toyota C-HR Plug-in Hybrid is a smart, refined crossover with a useful electric range, impressive fuel savings, and top-notch company car credentials. It’s ideal for town and suburban drivers who want to dip a toe into electrification without going fully electric.
But it’s not for everyone. Space in the back is tight, and the boot is disappointingly small. If you need a roomy family SUV, there are better options out there – like the Ford Kuga PHEV or Hyundai Tucson Plug-in.
Still, if you like the look of the C-HR and your driving mostly involves short trips and occasional motorway runs, the PHEV version might just hit the sweet spot.
