Toyota Australia has revealed its next C-HR will be offered only in hybrid form.
The decision marks something of a turning point for the company which has previously offered both hybrid and conventional versions of its vehicles.
Toyota says it reflects the brand’s commitment to lowering the carbon footprint of its vehicles.
It also reflects the ever-increasing customer demand for hybrids, with Australian customers purchasing a record 72,815 electrified Toyotas in 2022, representing 31.5 per cent of overall sales.
Toyota expects electrified vehicles to account for more than 50 per cent of sales by 2025.
With its polarising styling, C-HR sits between the Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross in terms of size.
Some people hate the look, others love it. We’re fans.
Globally, the new, second generation C-HR will also be available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), but the local arm of the company has no plans to bring the PHEV here.
The hybrid in the current model consists of a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre engine, with 72kW and 142Nm, teamed with an electric motor that puts 53kW and 163Nm.
With a combined power output of 90kW, no mention of torque and an undisclosed kerb weight, performance is at best average.
The CVT does not provide “steps” or simulated gears like it does in petrol models, with drive and reverse settings plus B for engine braking.
The 1.2-litre turbo is in our opinion a better drive which is unfortunate.
More details about the new-generation C-HR will be revealed closer to introduction in the first half of 2024.
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