2020 Toyota C-HR: Some Changes For The Coming Year

The Toyota C-HR gets a refresh for its 2020MY. Unfortunately, still no AWD or hybrid powertrain available.

Toyota certainly sells more RAV4 and Highlander these days, but we must not forget the smallest of the three, the C-HR, a crossover that has not achieved the expected success since coming on the market as a 2018 model. Perhaps this is also why the manufacturer is already making changes to its funky-looking utility.

There is a slight change in the available versions, the C-HR now starting with an LE badge instead of last year’s XLE. In the mid-range, we find the XLE Premium, while at the top, the C-HR Limited closes the lineup.

From a design point of view, it’s at the front that the 2020 model distinguish itself from the previous year, the grille, the lower portion and the optical blocks that are all new. Note that even the entry-level model inherits LED headlights for the occasion. The bumper is a bit more aggressive with these new openings practiced on both sides. The refresh also revamps the design of the 18-inch wheels… on the Limited version however!

Toyota is also adding the Android Auto system that is finally joining Apple CarPlay for 2020. On the Limited, a three-month subscription to Sirius XM satellite radio is also part of the list of amenities.

Delivered standard with the TSS-P system (for Toyota Safety Sense P), the C-HR is well equipped with the precollision system with pedestrian detection function, the lane departure warning system with assistance to steering and automatic road lights. In addition, the Star system adds Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology.

Unfortunately for the electric enthusiasts, the C-HR retains its only engine available on the North American market, an atmospheric 4-cylinder 2.0-liter engine delivering 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft. of torque with a continuously variable gearbox that also offers the ability to manually change the “programmed ratios” using the gear lever. Toyota still refuses to add AWD to its small crossover, the same goes for a hybrid engine as is the case in Europe.

It will be for the next generation, perhaps?