Driving Toyota’s C-HR compact SUV – this somewhat radical SUV a crossover between a hatchback, coupe, and an SUV – the CH-R styling extroverted but clever.  First launched in 2017 Toyota later adding two hybrid variants, firstly in high spec Koba grade and in a performance skewed GR-Sport grade – both utilising a 1.8-litre non-turbo petrol engine linked to a electric motor with combined output of 90kW.

I drove the Hybrid GR-Sport auto – performance smooth and eager especially from rest, frugal too and I managed 4.9L/100, the ride and seat comfort top class in a cabin that’s very polished and highly equipped.

A minus however is the swept-up tail design which restricts rear three-quarter vision. GR is Toyota’s performance moniker but, in the CH-R the get up and go is fairly tame unlike that of the Yaris and Supra GR models. While it shares its $37,665 price point with the high-spec hybrid Koba the inclusions in the hybrid GR-Sport are more akin to the entry GLX.

It does however get larger 19-inch shadow chrome alloy wheels, side skirts, a rear spoiler and sharper steering.  The GR-Sport suspension 15mm lower and slightly stiffer yet is still very comfortable on most surfaces. Warranty 5–year’s unlimited kilometre with annual capped price service a welcome $200.

I’m David Berthon.

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