Passion and emotion aren't words that necessarily spring to mind when you think of a car, however, try telling that to Toyota.
The Japanese marque, are both passionate and emotional about their new C-HR model.
Upon its initial launch in 2016, Toyota's 'compact crossover', or Coupé High-Rider to give it its proper title, went onto become a hit, selling an impressive 400,000 units, with 50,000 sold in the UK alone - taking with it, 40% of the UK's 'alternative fuelled' market.
Confidence in their subtly revamped model is quite rightly high.
Takatomo Suzuki - Chief engineer of the new C-HR, explained Toyota wanted to "refine core values" and make the new C-HR "more dynamic, more premium and more capable".
Designed and styled in Brussels, and with €50million spent on development, Toyota have high expectations for their revamped C-HR, and in doing so, are aiming straight at the competitive European market. As a result, Toyota expect to take approximately 8% of the market share and hope to attract new customers to the brand.
Styling is always subjective, but, there's no denying that the C-HR has a distinctive design. In fact, whilst test driving the new model in Portugal, its sleek looks merited several curious head turns.
Subtle design changes, including a wider front grille, new bumper, re-positioned foglights and new LED lights front and rear, all help the new 2020 C-HR create a strong road presence.
With new improved suspension and shock absorbers, Toyota are aiming to make the C-HR a more engaging drive. Enhanced power steering, better handling and refined driving dynamics, all help make for a pleasant and fun drive. And, with a low centre of gravity, body roll is almost none existent.
The new C-HR is even quieter and more refined than before, thanks to new noise reduction and engine insulation measures. Meanwhile, the CVT automatic gearbox provides a smooth ride.
The interior hasn't changed too drastically, with functionality and usability still prominent. Materials are solid and well made, with soft touch door panels and dashboard, interspersed with some durable plastic.
The eight-inch multimedia touchscreen is easy to operate and comes with an optional 800watt JBL premium audio system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are now standard and synch up easily with the media system.
With a small rear window and thick rear pillars, visibility is slightly restricted - though you are aided by rear sensors and camera. There's plenty space for a family of four, however, rear headroom is tight for taller adults, due in part to the sloping roofline.
Toyota has fitted a plethora of enhanced safety features as standard, including; pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, road sign assist and lane departure warning. There's optional adaptive front-lighting and blind spot monitor.
With a choice of colours and bi-tone variables on offer, there's plenty to choose from.
The new C-HR is also the latest Toyota model in the UK to be more environmentally friendly - alas, it's become all-hybrid.
The full petrol-electric hybrid system works well, offering a good balance of combined efficiency and power. Alongside a new smaller electric motor, there are two powertrains available; a 1.8-litre and an all-new 2.0-litre.
The 1.8-litre delivers 122bhp, 54-58mpg, with CO2 emissions 86-100g/km and 0-62mph in 11secs with a top speed of 105mph.
I tested the top of the range £32, 595 Orange Edition, which had a smooth, yet punchy 2.0-litre, delivering 184bhp, returning 49-54mpg and emitting 92-118g/km in CO2. 0-62mph in 8.2secs with maximum speed topping at 112mph. Toyota claim their new 2.0-litre will produce 80% zero emissions in urban areas.
The Orange Edition will have a limited run of only 500 units for the UK, with the C-HR arriving on our shores early next year.
Prices start at £25,625 for the base 1.8-litre Icon model and all variants come with a five year warranty as standard.
Packed with gadgets and gizmos, the new refined C-HR hybrid is poised to ride high.
The Toyota C-HR review as published in the national press.
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