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Toyota's C-HR is one of the trendiest compact Crossover model choices you can make. Now it's been improved. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Market and Model

Prices in the UK for this improved C-HR start from just under £26,000 for the entry-level Icon model. Customers can also choose from Design, Excel and Dynamic grades, all available with either 1.8 or new 2.0-litre hybrid powertrains. The range-topping "Orange Edition" rounds off the line up.

The proposition here gives you slightly less space than models like Nissan's Qashqai and Renault's Kadjar but more fashionable looks and better on-road dynamics. It's a formula will can see quite a number of potential buyers liking quite a lot. Equipment levels fit with this approach. Top level models may be specified with heated front seats, a smart entry system, rear privacy glass, bespoke upholstery (including part-leather), a Park-Assist system, 18-inch alloy wheels and bi-tone metallic paintwork.

In addition, the C-HR can be equipped with a tailor-made JBL premium audio system, comprising an eight-channel, 576W stereo amplifier and nine speakers, including two newly-patented acoustic JBL wave guides - known as horn tweeters. More importantly, the Toyota 'Safety Sense' package is standard across the range. It includes a Pre-Collision System with pedestrian warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with steering control, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist.

Cost of Ownership

Hybrid engines are rare in the Crossover segment. In fact, only Kia's Niro can offer petrol/electric technology in this class and that model looks pretty frumpy in comparison to this one. It'll be less efficient too, for a 1.8-litre Hybrid-powered C-HR can return up to 74.3mpg on the WLTP-rated combined cycle and up to 86g/km of NEDC-rated CO2. The 2.0-litre hybrid manages up to 92g/km of CO2.

The Japanese maker describes the C-HR's Hybrid technology as being of the 'self-charging' variety, which means that it isn't of the currently popular Plug-in variety. The brand of course has this technology (it's available on top versions of its Prius model) but currently feels it isn't necessary for the C-HR line-up. What else? Well, the five year 100,000 mile warranty is extremely good and even after that runs out, you'll find that most spares are relatively inexpensive. There's also three years warranty against rust and 12 years of anti-corrosion protection.

Summary

We can continue to see a ready market for this C-HR. Plenty of people attracted by a model like Nissan's Juke in the Crossover class would rather like a contender that'll be slightly bigger, more sophisticated and better-finished. This is that car.

We think the styling will attract many, but there are other product strong points too. Proven hybrid technology brings the potential for impressive efficiency and the addition of the perkier 2.0-litre hybrid unit will please those seeking more performance from this model. Plus C-HR buyers will like the sharp handling and the strong standards of safety and media connectivity. Style and sense combined then? Quite a few buyers in this segment may well think that.

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