2019 Toyota CH-R – Test Drive, Review, Specs
This Compact SUV is a Fun and Easy Drive
A quick glimpse is all it takes to spot the sharp, sporty and chiseled looks on the CH-R. That’s because the FWD compact SUV is inspired by a sports coupe on the left, and a diamond on the right of Toyota’s clean slate white board. All that, while keeping it under a tight MSRP budget in the sub $25k mark.
That’s right, the all-new CH-R model released just last year raised a lot of excitement at the Geneva International Motor Show. It comes in a palette of exotic fun colors to choose from, and its overall shape hints somewhat of a hot hatch. The latter statement is an important note because opting for a more compact and sportier look also means compromising functionality and space. That means both the leg and headroom in the rear seats are going to be a bit cramped.
It’s not necessarily a problem if you’re willing to fight for shotgun. That’s because the leather appointed leather trimmed bucket seats on the Limited models and up gives a sporty; yet spacious and comfortable seating position. Any other trims will leave you stuck with a cloth interior instead.
Digital Tech Features
The 8″ infotinament system runs on the latest Entune 3 software preloaded with Apple Car play, six speaker audio system, voice recognition as well.
Standard on the CH-R is generously offered with Toyota Safey Sense P. That means you get pre-collision avoidance system, lane departure warning and steering assist, automatic high beam and even dynamic radar cruise control. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available in the upper XLE Premium and Limited trims.
The Drive
Powering the CH-R is a simple 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing just 144 horsepower and 139 lbs.ft of torque. It doesn’t sound like much, but the feather light curb weight of just 1500 kg and the help of a responsive CVT makes the CH-R feel much quicker and capable than what it shows on paper.
Interior noise is well controlled and feels composed for the most part. Minimal wind shear and tire noise was noticed, and the 2.0L engine working in tandem with the CVT doesn’t create too much audible irritation either.
Steer damping resistance is also light and consistent across its entire range, which means it’s got fairly good handling precision and control. But corner it too hard reveals a bit of under steer and also reminds you of the higher center of gravity, a compromise you simply can’t take out of the equation of a cross-over; no matter how compact it is.
It’s a front-wheel-drive configuration which might also explain the light and quick maneuverability. Unfortunately, All-Wheel-Drive configuration is not available.
Final Thoughts
Most would condemn the CH-R with terrible rear seating space. But the truth is; you simply can’t have it all. And I think the sharp looks, quick handling and chiseled looks with exceptional fuel economy of 32/38/34 city, highway, combined.
All in all, the CH-R is an easy go around and get-around compact SUV option with all the latest gadgetry and design that offers stress-free driving without any luxury necessities.
There is still the concern with the lack of AWD configuration and susceptible to harsh weather conditions might re-consider. Still, a FWD in wet conditions is not a complete lost cause in our books, and if you’re living in the California region, the CH-R might make complete sense.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2019 Toyota CHR
- Model : CH-R Limited
- Vehicle Type : Compact SUV
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Engine : 2.0L V4
- Horsepower: 144 hp, 139 lb.ft torque
- Transmission : CVT with Intelligent Shift
- Price as tested: $31,512
Pros
- Modern and sporty look
- Fun and easy car to drive
- Lower base trims are well priced below 30K mark
- Excellent fuel economy
- Comfortable, fun and easy car to drive
Cons
- Lack of AWD option
- Lack of rear seating room