2019 TOYOTA C-HR PREVIEW

Toyota expands C-HR lineup for 2019

SHERBROOKE, QC: We spoke and Toyota listened. At the recent Canadian media introduction of the 2019 Avalon sedan, Corolla Hatchback and C-HR crossover in Quebec, brand vice-president, Stephen Beatty, said that when the media drove the C-HR last year he asked for comments. One suggestion was to offer more models to give buyers a wider choice. The C-HR (Compact High Rider) initially bowed in two trim versions, the XLE and XLE Premium. Beatty told journalists in attendance “we listened” and thus for 2019 there are now four versions – LE, XLE, XLE Premium and Limited. At the media gathering, the one C-HR on hand was a static model, thus there are no driving impressions. Much of the C-HR is built in common with the 2019 Corolla Hatchback, including platform as well as its Scion origins. Power comes from a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 144 hp and 139 lb/ft of torque driving the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with intelligent shift that offers seven virtual gears. Fuel consumption using regular gasoline is 8.7/7.5/8.2L/100 km city/hwy/combined. Toyota notes cargo volume is 1,031 litres behind the second-row split/fold seats and lists the interior payload of up to a useable 375 kg (835 lb). It features MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone setup at the rear. Double wishbones are more expensive than a simple twist beam, thus easier to engineer while keeping costs low. The upside is the increased ride and handling. Double wishbones keep everything more stable and shock towers don’t encroach on cargo space. Not much has changed with the exterior styling, except the green or white available roof colours are replaced with black for 2019. Other noticeable features from the outside include slim-line projector headlights, colour-keyed mirrors and cantilevered rear upper spoiler. On the inside is a new eight-inch touchscreen display for the standard backup camera, Entune 3.0 infotainment system, Apple Car Play and Smart Device Link. Dual-zone air conditioning is standard and all models come with the Toyota Safety Sense P bundle that includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function that provides forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function and Automatic High Beams.