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In sunny Portugal, a new electric companion rolls onto the road: Toyota’s CHR Plus. While the brand has long been a stalwart of internal‑combustion reliability, its latest compact crossover signals a shift toward electrification. The CHR Plus is not just a re‑branded version of the existing CHR; it sits on Toyota’s newly unveiled ETNGA platform, a modular architecture that will underpin future electric models across the company’s lineup.
Platform and Powertrain
The ETNGA platform is a flexible, modular foundation that shares its DNA with the Subaru Solterra and the Lexus RZ‑450E. It is built around a 400‑volt architecture, a standard that remains common among competitors such as the Kia EV4 and the Volvo EX30. While Toyota has not yet introduced an 800‑volt version, the current setup is adequate for the CHR Plus’s 77‑kW battery, which delivers a modest 230‑horsepower output to the front wheels. The manufacturer hints at a future shift to lithium‑iron‑phosphate (LFP) cells and, eventually, solid‑state technology by 2030, promising longer life and higher safety.
"I really can't get used to Toyota's naming conventions." – Host
Design and Interior
On the outside, the CHR Plus carries a sporty, coupe‑roof silhouette that echoes the BZ4X but with a sleeker, more aggressive stance. The front features a hammerhead LED signature, deeper side vents, and a wider grille that gives the vehicle a lower, wider presence. Inside, Toyota has opted for a mix of faux‑leather and Alcantara‑like textures, a two‑tone dash, and a 14‑inch central screen that balances digital convenience with tactile controls. While the cabin feels premium, some materials come across as lightweight and somewhat flimsy, a trade‑off that the brand acknowledges.
Practicalities and Features
Practicality is a mixed bag. The CHR Plus offers 416 L of boot space, slightly less than rivals like the Skoda Karoq. Folding the rear seats expands capacity to 1,132 L, and removable shell inserts allow for flexible storage, though they can feel fragile. The vehicle lacks a front trunk, and the charging flap is manual, not the quiet, premium experience some expect. On the bright side, the car comes with a 1‑million‑mile battery warranty, a rare promise that underscores Toyota’s confidence in its new platform.
Driving Experience and Market Position
On the road, the CHR Plus feels noticeably stiffer than the original model, thanks to a 30 % increase in torsional rigidity. The steering is small and responsive, though the driver must adjust the seat to avoid a cramped feel under the high battery pack. Torque steer is present but manageable, and the car does not support true one‑pedal driving, a feature that some EV enthusiasts crave. Power is modest: the front‑wheel‑drive version delivers 230 hp, while the all‑wheel‑drive variant, not yet available in the UK, offers 338 hp. Pricing starts at €34,495 for the 57.7‑kW battery and climbs to €36,995 for the 77‑kW version, positioning the CHR Plus against competitors such as the Skoda Karoq, Kia EV3, and Tesla Model Y.
Overall, the CHR Plus is a solid entry in Toyota’s electric portfolio. It blends a sporty exterior, a comfortable interior, and a respectable powertrain, all wrapped in the brand’s renowned reliability. While it may lack some of the high‑performance traits of its rivals, its 1‑million‑mile battery warranty and the promise of future solid‑state technology make it a compelling choice for buyers looking for a dependable, long‑term electric SUV.