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The Rebirth of the Toyota CHR
When Toyota announced the all‑new CHR, the compact crossover returned to the North American market in a form that was unmistakably different from its predecessor. The new model is fully electric, built in Japan’s Takaoka plant, and positioned as a fun‑to‑drive, affordable EV that still carries the brand’s reputation for reliability.
Manufacturing Excellence and Build Quality
One of the first things that struck the reviewer was the level of precision in the pre‑production prototype. Gaps between panels measured as little as 3.1 mm, a figure that compares favorably with the 3.8–4 mm gaps typical of the RAV4. The alignment of the hood and other body panels was nearly perfect, suggesting that the final production version will exhibit the same tightness. Paint thickness was also impressive; the prototype’s clear coat measured 197 µm, well above the 120 µm benchmark for many Toyota models, indicating a robust finish that should resist scratches and fading.
Exterior and Interior Design
Externally, the CHR keeps the bold, angular styling that made the original model memorable, but with a more streamlined silhouette. The front bumper is a large, protective plastic piece that shields the metal body from minor impacts, while the smaller, hammer‑head headlights reduce cost and weight. The rear features a prominent tail‑lamp and a large, protruding tail‑lens that could be vulnerable in tight parking spaces, but the surrounding matte plastic panels are designed to absorb damage.
Inside, Toyota has moved away from hard plastics toward softer, suede‑like materials. Alcantara upholstery on the seats and door panels gives the cabin a premium feel, while a 14‑inch infotainment screen matches the level found on higher‑trim models. The cabin’s tight fit and finish are evident: seams are almost invisible, and the overall construction feels solid and well‑finished, a hallmark of Toyota’s engineering.
Performance and Driving Experience
The new CHR is powered by a 338‑horsepower electric motor that delivers instant torque. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is reported to be just over five seconds, placing the vehicle in the same performance bracket as many sports cars. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery pack under the floor, gives the car a nimble feel that the reviewer described as “sporty sedan” rather than a typical crossover. Handling is sharp, with quick steering response and a stable, flat ride that keeps the car planted through corners.
Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels are low, and the cabin remains quiet even at higher speeds. The electric powertrain’s instant torque also provides a “pep” that makes the driving experience engaging, a contrast to the often more subdued feel of other EVs in the same price range.
Value, Market Position, and Future Outlook
Priced competitively, the CHR offers a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and technology without the premium price tag of larger EVs like the BZ‑Woodland. Toyota’s reputation for durability may help the vehicle retain value better than some competitors, although the reviewer notes that small EVs tend to depreciate faster than larger models.
For buyers who need a compact, fun‑to‑drive electric crossover but do not require the extra cargo space of a larger model, the CHR presents a strong option. Its combination of sporty handling, solid build quality, and affordable price makes it one of the most attractive EVs in Toyota’s lineup today.