Toyota's stylish crossover, the CH-R, has received a host of styling and safety updates. While subtle, the changes to the aesthetic of the already striking offering now gives it a slightly fresher, more up-to-date look.
Up front, it's been given a new headlamp design, with integrated LED lighting and DRLs. Sequential indicators have also been added to give it a more dynamic look while on the move. At the rear, the taillamps have received a similar treatment - the LED units are now darker than before, with a tasteful smoked effect being applied to the lenses.
A refreshed colour palette has also been added, with a number of colours (including the Cosmic Blue pictured) now available.
But it's on the safety front where Toyota has made the most improvements. Already a comprehensively equipped car in terms of occupant protection, the Japanese car maker has gone even further to make it safer. Toyota Safety Sense (their name for an active safety system) has been upgraded, now offering all-speed adaptive cruise control. This allows the vehicle to slow down or speed up, depending on the surrounding traffic conditions.
Furthermore, a Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Blind Spot Monitoring system are all included. Most interesting is the Lane Trace Assist System. Toyota notes that, like other lane-keeping systems, it will help the CH-R avoid "unplanned lane departure." However, it will also assist with centring the vehicle within a chosen lane, while following the direction of the road. Not too long ago, this technology was reserved for the most expensive luxury sedans.
As for the powertrain, it remains unchanged. And that's no problem. It's powered by the same 1.2-litre turbopetrol found in the Corolla Hatch, With 85 kW and 185 Nm of torque, it has more than enough motivation to keep up with traffic easily. Fuel consumption is remarkable, with a claimed 6.3 L/100 km (6.4 L for the CVT-equipped models).
The range-topping Luxury model lives up to its trim level, with a full suite of premium features. Heated leather seats, climate control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and push-button start, park distance control and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto all form part of the standard spec.
Toyota also offers the Connect WiFi system, with 15GB included.
All CH-R models come with a six service/90 000 km service plan and three-year/100 000 km warranty.
Toyota CH-R pricing:
CH-R 1.2T - R402 300
CH-R 1.2T Plus - R436 300
CH-R 1.2T Plus CVT - R449 300
CH-R 1.2T Luxury CVT - R519 900
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FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota CH-R cost in South Africa?
The Toyota CH-R starts from around R399,900 for the base model, with the range-topping Luxury variant climbing to approximately R449,900, making it a competitive option in the stylish crossover segment.
Q: Is the Toyota CH-R worth buying in 2024?
The CH-R is absolutely worth considering if you want a stylish crossover with excellent safety tech and impressive fuel economy of 6.3L/100km, though the 85kW engine might feel underpowered for some drivers.
Q: What safety features does the updated Toyota CH-R have?
The refreshed CH-R comes loaded with Toyota Safety Sense including all-speed adaptive cruise control, Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring, and clever Lane Trace Assist that keeps you centred in your lane.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Toyota CH-R?
The CH-R delivers excellent fuel consumption at just 6.3L/100km for manual models and 6.4L/100km for CVT variants, making it one of the most economical crossovers you can buy.
Q: What engine does the Toyota CH-R use?
The CH-R uses the same proven 1.2-litre turbopetrol engine from the Corolla Hatch, producing 85kW and 185Nm of torque, which provides adequate performance for daily driving.
Should You Buy It?
The best stylish crossover under R450,000 in South Africa is definitely the updated Toyota CH-R. At R399,900 to start, you're getting a head-turning design that still looks fresh, class-leading safety tech that rivals luxury cars, and fuel economy that'll make your wallet smile at 6.3L/100km. Sure, the 85kW engine won't set your pants on fire, but it's perfectly adequate for SA roads and the Toyota reliability means you'll be driving it for years. If you want something different from the usual SUV crowd and value style, safety, and efficiency over raw power, the CH-R is a solid buy that won't leave you disappointed.
