Back in 2017 Toyota launched a rather unusual compact SUV the C-HR – a radically styled SUV for Toyota – C-HR standing for compact high-rider – a real crossover vehicle – a cross between a hatchback, coupe, and an SUV. I said at the time it was an enormously clever piece of design although for some its styling is a little too radical.

Today, our fifth best-selling small SUV, the Toyota CH-R received a visual update in 2020 plus several hybrid models for the first time – a high grade Koba hybrid plus a performance skewed GR-Sport hybrid – GR is Toyota’s performance moniker and whilst the CH-R GR-Sport offers a lively performance it’s not in the same mould as the balls and all Toyota GR Yaris and Supra models.

The hybrid CH-R variants feature a 1.8-litre 72 kW non-turbo petrol engine linked to a 53kW electric motor with a total 90kW output driving the front wheels through a CVT automatic. Both Koba and GR-Sport hybrids priced at $37,665, the Koba the better specified, the GR-Sport disappointingly carrying less features although it does get larger 19-inch wheels in shadow chrome, side skirts and a rear spoiler.

The GR-Sport a nice performer, quiet and refined but it’s not a hard on performance model as the GR badge suggests. Drive details next segment.

I’m David Berthon.

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