“Haven't driven it enough to have an opinion, but if it is anything like the Rav 4 would recommend it to anyone.”
Toyota C-HR: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Toyota C-HR is a small, style-forward SUV known for bold design, everyday maneuverability, and standard safety technology. U.S. models were front-wheel-drive gas crossovers from 2018 to 2022, while the name returns for 2026 as a quicker, all-electric compact SUV with standard AWD.
The through-line is an expressive small SUV for commuters who value design more than maximum room. The original 2018-2022 C-HR paired coupe-like styling with a simple gas engine and front-wheel drive, while gaining broader phone connectivity and more capable safety technology over time. After a break in U.S. sales, the 2026 model resets the formula around electric power, standard AWD, and brisk acceleration while keeping the compact daily-driver role.
Strengths
- Distinctive styling has defined the C-HR from the original coupe-like crossover to the sharper-looking 2026 EV.
- Standard safety technology has been a theme since the 2018 launch, with a more capable suite arriving for 2021 and another updated suite fitted to every 2026 model.
- The 2026 electric C-HR has standard dual-motor AWD and 338 horsepower, giving it much stronger acceleration than the original gas version.
- Depending on the version, the 2026 electric C-HR is rated for 273 to 287 miles of driving range.
- Every 2026 C-HR uses a NACS charge port, so the charging connection is consistent across the lineup.
Who it's for
The C-HR fits city and suburban commuters who want a compact footprint and a more distinctive look, and who do not need the roomiest small SUV. The 2018-2022 version suits someone seeking a straightforward front-wheel-drive gas crossover, while the 2026 model is aimed at drivers ready for home or public charging who want an EV with standard AWD and stronger acceleration.
Toyota C-HR lineup
The original gas-era lineup centered on XLE, the only trim name that lasted from the 2018 launch through the final 2022 model year. Nightshade is the clearest style-specific choice among later gas models because it brought a dark-themed look for 2021 and 2022. LE, Limited, and the launch-year XLE Premium occupied different places in a lineup that shifted over time, so used shoppers should compare each vehicle’s exact equipment. The 2026 EV starts fresh with SE and XSE, and both share the core dual-motor AWD system, NACS charge port, 14-inch touchscreen, and standard safety suite; the decision between them comes down to their remaining equipment rather than a different basic powertrain.
Toyota C-HR generations
From 2018 to 2026, the C-HR spans two generations. The current EV Generation arrived for 2026, following the 1st Generation (2018-2022).
EV Generation (2026-Present)
The C-HR returns to the U.S. as an all-electric compact SUV after the gas model's departure. It has standard dual-motor AWD, a 74.7-kWh battery, and a 14-inch touchscreen.
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2026New generation
The C-HR returns as an all-new EV with standard dual-motor AWD, 338 horsepower, and a NACS charging port.
1st Generation (2018-2022)
The original U.S. C-HR is a small, coupe-shaped crossover with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and a continuously variable automatic transmission. A 2020 refresh revised the front styling and expanded its standard technology.
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2022Trim changes
The LE trim leaves the lineup, leaving XLE, Nightshade, and Limited. This is the final U.S. model year for the gas-powered C-HR.
2021Trim changes
The Nightshade Edition joins the lineup, and an updated safety suite becomes standard on every trim.
2020Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front styling, a revised rear spoiler, standard LED headlights, and Android Auto update the lineup.
2019Trim changes
A new LE, XLE, and Limited trim structure replaces the original two-trim lineup. An 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay becomes standard.
2018New generation
The C-HR debuts in the U.S. with bold coupe-like styling, two trims, and one front-wheel-drive powertrain.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Toyota C-HR.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Toyota C-HR gas or electric?
It depends on the era. U.S. C-HRs from 2018 through 2022 have a 2.0-liter gas engine and front-wheel drive. The name returns for 2026 on an all-new, fully electric SUV with two motors and standard AWD.
Does the Toyota C-HR come as a hybrid?
No. The 2018-2022 U.S. C-HR uses a conventional gas engine, while the returning 2026 C-HR is fully electric. Neither U.S. version described here uses a gas-electric hybrid system.
Does the Toyota C-HR have AWD?
Only the electric version does. Every 2018-2022 U.S. C-HR has front-wheel drive. The all-new 2026 electric C-HR has standard dual-motor AWD on both SE and XSE trims.
What is the Toyota C-HR known for?
The C-HR is known for bold, coupe-like styling in a small SUV footprint. The original gas model also emphasized standard safety features, while the returning electric version adds brisk acceleration, AWD, a large touchscreen, and straightforward NACS charging.
Is the Toyota C-HR a good family SUV?
It fits small households better than families needing maximum room. The latest C-HR seats five, but its compact size and 32.2 inches of rear legroom make it more naturally suited to commuting, errands, and occasional rear passengers than space-heavy family duty.
Are the older and newer Toyota C-HR basically the same vehicle?
No. The 2018-2022 C-HR is a gas-powered, front-wheel-drive subcompact crossover. The name returns for 2026 on an all-new battery-electric SUV with two motors, AWD, 338 horsepower, and a different SE/XSE trim lineup.
How much cargo space does the Toyota C-HR have?
The latest electric C-HR is listed with 55 cubic feet of cargo room and seats five. Its main appeal is still compact size and expressive styling rather than maximum carrying capacity, so shoppers who regularly haul bulky items may want a larger SUV.
Toyota C-HR Reviews
What owners are saying about the Toyota C-HR.
4.2
Toyota C-HR
(807 reviews)
“This vehicle has a lot of interior road noise, so if looking for a quiet ride check out other models. Overall love this vehicle otherwise.”
“A great vehicle for driving around town, taking 2 people on a road trip. Easy to drive, smooth with great features.”
“Cute, sporty car with the reliability and Toyota reputation. Has great safety features. Comfy. Only down side would be a better radio - no sirrus XM or CD player.”
“The CH-R is a fun car to drive. I love the sporty style..The safety features including the back up camera and side cameras with the warning lights and sounds are so helpful. If these were on all. [Name] les on the road there would be much fewer accidents.”
“LOVE THIS CHR PEOPLE STOP AND WANT TO SEE IT. WE LET THEM WE ARE PROUD TO OWN IT....”
Sources
- pressroom.toyota.com — Toyota Debuts Stylish Powerful 2026 C Hr Battery Electric Vehicle
- pressroom.toyota.com — 2026 Toyota C Hr Puts Sporty Stylish Spin On The Compact Electric Suv
- pressroom.toyota.com — Whats New For 2027
- pressroom.toyota.com — Whats New For 2022
- toyota.com — C Hr / 2022
- pressroom.toyota.com — New Nightshade Edition Comes To 2021 Toyota C Hr
- pressroom.toyota.com — 2016 Laas 2018 Toyota C Hr
- pressroom.toyota.com — Toyota C Hr Carves Out Its Own Niche For 2020 With New Exterior Styling
- pressroom.toyota.com — Story Begins With First Ever Toyota C Hr
- pressroom.toyota.com — Toyota Chr Gets Tech Styling Upgrades New Grade Strategy 2019
- toyota.com — Toyota Fleet Vehicles / Pdf / 2021 Fleet Guide
- pressroom.toyota.com — Toyota C Hr Shifts Cuv Paradigm