2020 Toyota C-HR Review

The 2020 C-HR is the first revision to the subcompact crossover Toyota introduced to the U.S. market for the 2018 model year. This update doesn't bring any monumental changes to the table: The C-HR keeps its powertrain, overall shape and standard safety equipment. It remains one of the few subcompact crossovers that don't offer all-wheel drive. Additions are limited to a redesigned front end, new wheel styles and small interior improvements.

The C-HR retains its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission, which comes with a Sport mode that allows drivers to mimic manual shifts through seven simulated gears. Standard equipment includes Toyota Safety Sense P, or TSS-P, with automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 2020 C-HR is available in base LE, XLE and top Limited trims.

Subcompact crossovers have grown in number since the original C-HR debuted, and it runs the risk of falling by the wayside. While it may have the most daring style of any vehicle in its class, the C-HR is held back by poor acceleration, a noisy ride and compromised interior space. The 2020 C-HR makes minor interior changes to entice buyers with the addition of Android Auto compatibility — joining Apple CarPlay as a standard feature — and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat on the Limited trim.

It takes a keen eye to spot the styling differences between the 2020 C-HR and older models. The new crossover has slightly rounder headlights, with the base LE trim gaining LED headlights. The Limited trim now has adaptive headlights and LED foglights. Designers added light resculpting on the front grille and bumper, plus foglights that move out to a wider position inside faux air intakes. The rest of the look, around its swooping side profile and dramatic rear end, remains unchanged. Toyota will offer new wheel designs and a silver roof, replacing the optional white roof on previous models.

There is surprising variety available in the subcompact crossover class these days. The Nissan Kicks and Mazda CX-3 are fun to drive, while the Subaru Crosstrek and Jeep Renegade offer some off-road ability. The Kia Soul and Honda HR-V are roomier than you might expect, and the Hyundai Kona is a great package that even has a fully electric variant.

By comparison, the 2020 C-HR is visually striking but otherwise unremarkable. Its fuel economy is EPA-rated at 29 mpg combined (27 city/31 highway), which is average for the class but below the CX-3 and the Kicks.