The 2019 Toyota C-HR continues to make waves in the compact crossover segment, delivering a unique blend of bold design, advanced technology, and engaging driving dynamics. This “Coupe High-Rider” stands out from the crowd, offering a refreshing alternative for drivers seeking a vehicle that’s both practical and personality-packed. For the 2019 model year, Toyota has refined the C-HR lineup, streamlining the grades and enhancing standard features, making it an even more compelling option.
Enhanced Grade Lineup for the 2019 Toyota C-HR
Toyota simplified the 2019 C-HR grade structure to offer three well-equipped trims: LE, XLE, and Limited. This new strategy ensures buyers can easily find a model that fits their needs and budget without sacrificing essential features.
The entry-level LE grade provides a strong foundation with standard 17-inch steel wheels and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) paired with halogen headlamps. Inside, drivers will appreciate the user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay® compatibility, a polyurethane steering wheel with integrated controls, and Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P).
Stepping up to the XLE grade adds a host of convenience and safety upgrades. Standard features now include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), enhancing driver awareness and safety. Auto-folding side mirrors and “Toyota C-HR” puddle lamps add a touch of sophistication, while the piano black upper console and switch base elevate the interior aesthetics. Keyless entry with Smart Key and push-button start further enhance convenience. For those seeking more advanced audio features, Entune 3.0 Audio Plus becomes an available option on the XLE.
At the top of the range, the Limited grade offers a premium experience. Building upon the XLE, the Limited adds fog lamps and piano black B-pillar exterior accents for a more distinguished look. “Limited” badging clearly identifies this top-tier trim. Rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats with driver seat power lumbar support, and chrome window trim enhance comfort and convenience. The Limited also includes Entune 3.0 Audio Plus as standard, with the option to upgrade to Entune 3.0 Premium Audio. Interior seating surfaces in the Limited grade feature a choice of leather-trimmed or leather-trimmed/fabric options, adding a touch of luxury.
Striking and Aerodynamic Design of the 2019 C-HR
The 2019 Toyota C-HR continues to turn heads with its distinctive, diamond-inspired design. Evoking a sense of luxury and strength, the C-HR’s exterior is a masterclass in modern automotive styling.
The front fascia is characterized by slim projector-beam halogen headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights that extend dramatically into the front quarter panels. This design creates an assertive and unique front profile. The C-HR’s dimensions – a width of 70.7 inches, height of 61.6 inches, length of 171.2 inches, and a wheelbase of 103.9 inches – classify it perfectly as a compact and agile crossover. Interestingly, the rear track width of 60.6 inches mirrors that of the Toyota 86 sports car, hinting at its surprisingly nimble handling.
Alt text: Front view of the 2019 Toyota C-HR showcasing its sleek headlights, bold grille, and dynamic lines, emphasizing its modern crossover design.
Deep character lines flow from the prominent Toyota emblem on the front grille, extending along the body and merging with the high beltline and distinctive C-pillar. The hidden-type rear door handles further contribute to the coupe-like silhouette.
The rear design is equally striking, with tail lamps that protrude outwards and a hatchback featuring a lip spoiler and a functional color-matched cantilevered wing. These elements create a cohesive and dynamic rear profile.
Toyota’s engineers paid significant attention to aerodynamics, achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.34. Canards on the rear quarter panels, front and rear spats, a streamlined rear lower bumper, and stabilizing fins integrated into the taillights all play a crucial role in managing airflow around the vehicle. Underneath, rigid covers on the engine, floor, fuel tank, and rear wheels minimize turbulence, contributing to enhanced vehicle control and fuel efficiency. Even the lower arms of the multi-link rear suspension are designed with a streamlined edge to optimize airflow.
The 2019 C-HR offers a vibrant palette of exterior color options. Standard choices include Blue Eclipse Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Silver Knockout Metallic, and the new Blue Flame. For those seeking even more personalization, available premium colors include Ruby Flare Pearl and Blizzard Pearl.
For a truly unique look, the C-HR can be specified with R-Code paint, pairing the body color with a contrasting black or white roof (white roof option exclusive to Blue Eclipse Metallic), side mirrors, and A-pillar. For 2019, the R-code black roof option expands to include Silver Knockout Metallic, Blizzard Pearl, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blue Flame body colors.
Efficient and Engaging Performance of the 2019 Toyota C-HR
Under the hood, the 2019 Toyota C-HR is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder dual-overhead cam engine. This engine delivers 144 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 139 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm, providing ample power for daily driving. Power is sent to the front wheels via Toyota’s Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode (CVTi-S).
The engine incorporates advanced Toyota technologies like Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Valvematic, optimized for both fuel efficiency and smooth operation. Valvematic offers a broad range of continuously variable valve timing and lift, ensuring optimal intake valve operation based on engine demands. The catalyst is designed to warm up quickly during engine start-up, reducing exhaust emissions. The 2019 C-HR achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined.
The CVTi-S transmission has been meticulously engineered with redesigned pulleys for enhanced acceleration and fuel economy, a new belt structure to minimize cabin noise, and a coaxial two-port oil pump system for continuous oil pressure adjustments in various driving conditions. A Preload Differential helps to distribute torque between the front wheels at low speeds, promoting smoother and more composed driving.
Drivers can tailor the C-HR’s driving experience with Sport mode and the simulated 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic. Engaging Sport mode via the multi-information display sharpens throttle response, quickens the CVT’s simulated gear shifts, and maintains higher engine speeds for enhanced acceleration. The Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system provides firmer feedback in Sport mode for a more confident feel. Sequential Shiftmatic mode, accessible by moving the gearshift to the left in Drive, allows drivers to manually shift through simulated gears for a more engaging driving experience.
“MeZONE” Interior Design and Technology of the 2019 C-HR
The interior of the 2019 Toyota C-HR is designed with a modern and driver-focused “MeZONE” concept. Accents are strategically placed, and the layout is uncluttered, creating a comfortable and intuitive space. Soft-touch materials are used throughout the cabin, and a diamond pattern motif influences the design of the dual-zone climate controls, speaker surrounds, and headliner. For 2019, new interior fabric and leather trim options are available, including gray fabric for XLE and black leather or brown leather/fabric combination for Limited grades.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2019 Toyota C-HR showcasing the dashboard, 8-inch touchscreen display, and driver-centric “MeZONE” design, highlighting the modern and functional cabin.
The slim A-pillars, angled dashboard, and well-placed controls provide the driver with excellent visibility and easy access to instrumentation. The 8-inch audio display is positioned prominently on top of the dash, minimizing eye movement for the driver. A twin-ring gauge cluster behind the leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel provides essential driving information. The tilt/telescoping steering wheel is designed for a sporty feel and comfortable grip. The satin-plated shift knob adds a touch of refinement and provides solid shift action. A 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) located within the gauge cluster presents information such as odometer, SPORT and ECO modes, outside temperature, fuel economy, trip data, G-force monitor, and more.
Key standard features on the LE grade include all-black interior trim, remote keyless entry, a urethane tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and MID controls, Bluetooth® connectivity, voice command functionality, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Automatic High Beams, sport fabric-trimmed front bucket seats, and 6-way adjustable front seats. Rear passengers benefit from 60/40 split-fold seats with adjustable headrests and a center armrest with a 12V power outlet.
XLE and Limited grades add a leather-trimmed steering wheel, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Smart Key System with Push Button Start. All 2019 C-HR models are equipped with a six-speaker audio system with AM/FM/HD Radio™, Aha™ app, USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity, Apple CarPlay® compatibility, AUX audio jack, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, and Voice Recognition.
The C-HR includes a Brake Hold Function, which maintains braking force when the vehicle is stopped, even if the driver releases pressure on the brake pedal. The brakes release automatically when the accelerator is pressed.
Bolstered front bucket seats provide excellent support and comfort. Ample storage space is provided throughout the cabin, including sculpted in-door pockets and multiple cup holders. Scalloped seatbacks, foot well cubbies under the front seats, and a chamfered headliner maximize rear passenger space. Sound-insulating materials in the carpet, headliner, A-pillars, and door trim minimize unwanted noise intrusion.
The rear 60/40 split-folding seats enhance cargo versatility. The LATCH system in the rear seats makes child seat installation easy. Seatback lock releases are conveniently located at shoulder height for easy seat folding. A hidden storage compartment in the cargo area sidewall and compartments under the deck board provide additional storage options. A standard cargo cover conceals items in the trunk area.
Smooth Ride and Agile Handling of the 2019 Toyota C-HR
Beyond its striking style, the 2019 Toyota C-HR delivers a rewarding driving experience with impressive ride comfort and agile handling. The Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) C-platform provides a solid foundation for on-road performance and ride quality. The TNGA C-platform’s inherent low center-of-gravity, high strength, and low weight are further enhanced by added spot welding, gussets, braces, and adhesives in key structural areas.
The MacPherson strut front suspension features angled strut bearings and a large diameter stabilizer bar, contributing to the C-HR’s quick and precise front-end response during cornering. The multi-link rear suspension utilizes a 26-mm stabilizer bar with urethane upper supports and aluminum-cast upper support housings. These components enhance damper absorption efficiency, significantly improving passenger comfort, cabin quietness, and vehicle agility.
The column-type Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system delivers a connected feel to the road. The EPS system provides light feedback at low speeds and firmer feedback at higher speeds, enhancing driver confidence. The steering system’s responsiveness is further enhanced by a highly rigid rack-and-pinion steering gearbox directly mounted to the front suspension. Braking is handled by 11.7-inch front ventilated discs and 11.5-inch rear solid discs, providing confident stopping power.
Advanced Safety Features of the 2019 Toyota C-HR
The 2019 Toyota C-HR comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P), a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. TSS-P includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC).
The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) uses camera and radar technology to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead. If a potential collision is detected, the system provides audio and visual alerts to prompt the driver to brake. If the driver brakes, the system may provide Brake Assist to increase braking force. If the driver does not brake in time, the system may automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid a collision.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist uses a camera to detect lane markers and the vehicle’s position within the lane. If the system detects unintentional lane departure, it provides audio and visual alerts. Steering Assist may also provide subtle corrective steering inputs to help the driver maintain lane position.
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) functions like conventional cruise control but adds vehicle-to-vehicle distance control. It maintains a set speed and automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a preset distance from a preceding vehicle. DRCC can operate from 0 to 110 mph and can enable low-speed following, speed matching, and even bring the vehicle to a complete stop if necessary.
Automatic High Beams (AHB) automatically switch between high and low beams based on detected headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of vehicles ahead, optimizing nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers.
In addition to TSS-P, the 2019 C-HR includes 10 standard airbags, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), and a rear backup camera. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is standard on XLE and Limited models and available on LE.
Competitive Pricing and Toyota Value of the 2019 C-HR
The 2019 Toyota C-HR offers excellent value with a starting MSRP of $20,995 for the LE grade, $23,030 for the XLE grade, and $26,050 for the Limited grade. These prices exclude a delivery, processing, and handling fee of $1,095.
Alt text: The Toyota logo, representing the brand’s commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation in vehicles like the 2019 C-HR.
The 2019 Toyota C-HR is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty and Toyota Care program. Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty covers all components except normal wear and maintenance items. The powertrain is covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion coverage extends for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Toyota Care provides complimentary normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years with unlimited mileage, further enhancing the value proposition of the 2019 Toyota C-HR.
In conclusion, the 2019 Toyota C-HR is a standout compact crossover that delivers on style, safety, and technology. With its enhanced grade strategy, bold design, efficient performance, and comprehensive safety features, the 2019 Toyota C-HR is a compelling choice for drivers seeking a vehicle that’s both practical and expressive.
