“Toyota’s bold new C-HR blends Italian flair, EV power, and a red emblem. Discover its game-changing upgrades—and the flaws critics won’t tell you.”
Toyota just dropped a bombshell: the 2025 C-HR isn’t just another crossover. With a Ferrari-like red emblem, a lounge-worthy interior, and a 343-horsepower electric punch, it’s rewriting the rules. But critics say it’s still missing one critical feature…
How The New C-HR Outshines Its Predecessor
The original C-HR was like that quirky friend who’s fun at parties but useless in a crisis. Slow, cramped, and discontinued in the U.S. by 2022, it left fans wanting more. Enter the 2025 C-HR—a total reinvention with three radical upgrades:
- Goodbye Gas, Hello Lightning
The new C-HR+ EV (yes, the “+” matters) ditches the old 1.8L hybrid for 343 hp and a 0-60 mph sprint in 5.2 seconds—faster than a Mustang EcoBoost. The optional 77 kWh battery promises up to 270 miles of range, a massive leap from the old model’s 41-mile plug-in hybrid setup. - Spacious Cabin or “Italian Lounge”?
Toyota hired designers from Milan to craft the Lounge Hero trim, featuring Bordeaux suede seats, ambient lighting, and a panoramic roof that adds 3 cm of headroom. Even the door panels feel like a luxury handbag. Compare that to the old C-HR’s plastic-heavy interior, and it’s like upgrading from a dorm room to a penthouse. - Tech That Reads Your Mind (Almost)
The old model’s tiny 8-inch screen is gone. The new C-HR+ boasts a 14-inch touchscreen with EV-specific navigation, wireless charging, and a JBL subwoofer. Toyota Safety Sense now includes a driver monitor camera to catch you texting—or napping.
But Wait…
The GR Sport hybrid variant still uses a lazy CVT transmission, and rear headroom is tight for adults over 6’ tall. “It’s like Toyota forgot tall people exist,” joked one reviewer.
C-HR vs Competitors: Where Toyota Wins (and Stumbles)
Toyota’s targeting the Nissan Ariya and Hyundai Kona Electric, but here’s the real scoop:
- Performance: The C-HR+ AWD’s 343 hp crushes the Kona Electric’s 201 hp. Even the base FWD model outmuscles the VW ID.4.
- Charging Speed: 150 kW max—decent, but lagging behind the Kia EV6’s 235 kW. Cold-weather charging? The new pre-conditioning feature helps, but it’s no Tesla.
- Price: Rumored to start around **32,000∗∗,undercuttingtheAriyaby32,000∗∗,undercuttingtheAriyaby6K. But the hybrid GR Sport costs $54,990 in Australia—will Americans pay that for faux-sporty vibes?
The Elephant in the Room: No frunk. Despite the EV platform, Toyota didn’t add front storage. “It’s 2025—where’s my extra space?” complained a Reddit user.
The “Red Emblem” Controversy: Style Over Substance?
That flashy red Toyota badge isn’t just for show. It signifies the Lounge Hero and Orange Edition trims, which come with:
- Bi-tone+ paint (black roof + Metallic Oxide body)
- 20-inch matte-gray wheels
- Heated leather/suede steering wheel
Fans are obsessed, but critics call it a marketing gimmick: “Why not invest in faster charging instead?”
Should You Buy It? The Brutally Honest Verdict
Buy if: You crave head-turning design, EV thrills, and Toyota’s legendary reliability. The 10-year battery warranty sweetens the deal.
Skip if: You need rear legroom for teens or want cutting-edge tech. The Honda Prologue offers more space, and the Kia EV6 charges faster.
Final Thought: The C-HR isn’t perfect—but it’s Toyota’s most exciting car since the Supra. And that red emblem? It’s already going viral on TikTok.
Toyota’s New C-HR Photos 4K
Tags: Compact SUV, Red Toyota Emblem, Lounge Hero, Electric Toyota C-HR, Toyota C-HR vs Competitors