WHAT’S NEW AND SPECIAL ABOUT THE TOYOTA C-HR PLUG-IN?
The all-new Toyota C-HR made its debut with a hybrid electric system at the end of last year. Now the highly popular mid-size SUV range has been completed with the addition of a super-efficient plug-in hybrid electric version. It has the same striking coupe-style design and advanced tech features as the standard hybrid, together with an ability to cover greater distances on electric power – with no harmful tailpipe emissions.
HOW DOES THE PLUG-IN SYSTEM WORK
The Toyota C-HR Plug-in has a larger and more powerful battery than the standard hybrid models. It produces enough energy to run the car on electric power alone for up to 41 miles. That’s further than the typical daily mileage covered by most UK motorists.
This performance is the best in the model’s class.
When you start the car, it runs on electricity by default, until the battery charge is depleted – even if you’re making sharp use of the accelerator.
When you’ve used up the battery’s charge, you don’t have to stop to recharge. Instead, the car runs on its hybrid petrol engine, supported by its electric motor. You can plug in to recharge the battery when it suits you – at home, at work or a public charge point.
THE BIG TOYOTA TECH ADVANTAGE
With most of today’s plug-in hybrid systems, when the battery charge is depleted, the vehicle switches to its petrol engine alone. This means CO2 emissions and fuel economy take a hit. But in the Toyota C-HR Plug-in the car runs like a standard hybrid electric vehicle, with the petrol engine, electric motor and braking energy capture helping charge the battery.
ECO FIGURES
All cars on the market have to quote official WLTP data on fuel consumption and emissions. Where the all-new Toyota C-HR is concerned, fuel economy is from 353.1mpg and carbon emissions are from 19g/km. That kind of efficiency makes for lower day-to-day running costs.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
When running on electric power, performance is smooth, refined and ultra-quiet, but the driver still enjoys the “feel” of the car and the road through the responsive accelerator, brakes and steering. You also have a great view of the road ahead from the higher, SUV-style driving position.
The plug-in is built on the same platform as the hybrid versions, which gives it a safe, strong and rigid construction. When you’re on the move, body control is excellent and the ride is comfortable for everyone on board. It’s also agile and manoeuvrable, handling more like a conventional hatchback than a big SUV.
CHOOSE YOUR MODE
Although the Plug-in runs in all-electric EV mode by default, you can choose other driving modes if you want extra power; to drive hybrid electric; or prioritise battery charging when on the move.
“ONE PEDAL” DRIVING
The Toyota C-HR Plug-in has a system that let’s you use a “one pedal” style of driving. Called regeneration boost, it automatically slows the vehicle when you come off the accelerator, making for easier driving in slow traffic.
CHARGING TIME
If you use a wallbox charger and a tri-phase cable, you can charge the battery from zero to 100 per cent in less than two-and-a-half-hours. You can use the Mode 2 cable if you simply want to charge-up using your standard domestic power supply, for example overnight.
WHAT KIND OF EQUIPMENT FEATURES DOES IT HAVE?
The Toyota C-HR Plug-in is available in three equipment grades: Design, GR Sport and Excel.
All models have smart new flush-fitting door handles, tinted rear privacy glass, automatic headlights, wipers and rear-view mirror and front seats with integrated heating and colling. The latest 12.3-inch Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system gives you cloud-based navigation which lets you plan a route with up-to-the-moment traffic information, plus embedded navigation when there’s no cloud connection. There’s also wireless integration for your Apple or Android smartphone and an on-board digital assistant ready to answer your commands. All vehicles also come with a comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense package of active safety and driving assistance systems.
Higher grade models build the specification with features such as larger alloy wheels, suede-effect upholstery, premium JBL audio and even more sophisticated safety systems. The GR Sport adds sports styling details inside and out.
WHEN IS THE CAR GOING TO BE AVAILABLE?
The all-new Toyota C-HR Plug-in is available to order now, with on-the-road prices starting £39,145. Customer deliveries are expected to start in July. Full details at www.toyota.co.uk.