Toyota CH-R 1,2T Luxury CVT
Toyota adds a new top-of-the-range model to its trendy C-HR line-up
IF there’s a car that immediately stands out in Toyota’s South Africa Motors’ product line-up, it’s this C-HR. The sharp-nosed Fortuner may come the closest but, visually, little else in a fairly conservative local offering heralded for its reliability and resale value comes close to this avant-garde crossover.
The unmistakably modern exterior design, with its angular planes, contrasting swooping curves, big rakish headlamps and hidden rear door handles make the C-HR a highly unconventional Toyota. When the vehicle was launched here in 2017, it was a reminder of the 1990s’ first-generation RAV4, a car that made a similar impact and still stands out. Like that original RAV4, the C-HR is also a vehicle which has resonated well with SA buyers and Toyota has sold an average of 180 units a month over the past three months.
More of a crossover than an SUV, the C-HR offers a good balance between the practicality of an SUV and the nimble handling of a hatchback. New to the range is this Luxury derivative that, for the first time, offers leather seats, together with an impressive nine airbags, intelligent park assist and LED head- and taillamps.
Caribbean Blue as an exterior colour has also been added to the range, while three two-tone options are available on the Luxury model, plus the choice of a further two hues.
The modern exterior design is carried through to the interior, with piano-black inserts throughout the cabin, including the inside of the steering wheel. The premium quality of the interior is further emphasised by a leather-covered dashboard, while the door cards feature brown inserts.
The touchscreen infotainment system features Apple Carplay and Android Auto together with USB connectivity and Bluetooth. There is also satellite navigation as standard equipment.
Under that sculpted bonnet is the 1,2-litre turbopetrol unit doing duty in the rest of the range and, in this Luxury derivative, is mated to a CVT transmission. While it does a fine job in terms of fuel economy – Toyota claims a combined use of 6,4 L/100 km – performance is adequate rather than sparkling.
Of course, the key question is whether or not it’s worth the R55 000 premium over the model below it (the Plus CVT at R377 000). If luxury finishes, convenience features and safety are priorities for you, it’s a yes. That premium is a good chunk of money but it is certainly what those extras are worth, and then some.
All the models come with a six-services/90 000 km service plan and the range starts at R336 000, followed by the 1,2T Plus (R365 500), the Plus CVT and this Luxury CVT.