2026 Toyota C-HR First Look: Can This Affordable EV Meet America’s Needs?
Toyota's Second EV Aims for Greater Range, Faster Charging, and Lower Cost Than Its First Model.
If you recall the Toyota C-HR that was available in the U.S. between 2018 and 2022, forget everything you remember about that sluggish and compact crossover. The 2026 Toyota C-HR marks a significant shift from whatever brand identity remained after the previous gasoline-powered model was discontinued. This revamped and electrified version of the C-HR promises improved performance, ample space for a family of four, and, unlike its predecessor, the crucial option of all-wheel drive.;
The C-HR also marks Toyota’s much-needed second attempt at a modern electric vehicle. By applying lessons learned from the less-than-popular bZ4X, it aims to improve range and reduce charging times. More importantly, the C-HR holds the potential to address the affordability issue that currently hinders the American EV market. The success or failure of the 2026 Toyota C-HR will likely hinge less on its technical specifications and more on the price tag. While there’s been no official word on pricing, if the C-HR is priced in the low $30,000 range, it could propel Toyota from being an electric vehicle underdog to a serious competitor in the market.
This Is Not Your Kid’s C-HR
Beyond the name, the sloping roofline, the raised beltline above the rear wheel, and the rear door handles tucked into the C-pillars, the 2026 C-HR shares little with its predecessor. Thanks to its sleek design and what are expected to be optional 20-inch wheels, this new EV exudes a much more sophisticated and premium feel. Its larger size contributes to the upgraded impression. Built on Toyota’s e-TNGA dedicated EV platform, the C-HR+ is 4.4 inches longer than the gas-powered version, both in wheelbase and overall length. Measuring 180.0 inches from front to back, it’s nearly the same length as the Toyota RAV4. Additionally, cargo space is generous, offering 25.4 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, which feature a 60/40 split-folding configuration.
In line with its sporty design, Toyota is offering the C-HR exclusively in SE and XSE trim levels. For those familiar with Toyota’s lineup, these trims reflect the more dynamic side of the brand’s offerings, which contrast with the L, LE, XLE, and Limited models typically found in Toyota’s other cars and SUVs, catering to a more comfort-oriented, luxury-focused audience.
Faster, Better, Longer
Since the C-HR shares most of its powertrain components with the updated 2026 Toyota bZ, its performance is quite similar. In the U.S., the C-HR is equipped solely with the larger 74.7-kWh battery pack, while the smaller 57.7-kWh pack, available in other markets, will be offered on the 2026 bZ. Every C-HR comes with dual electric motors (unlike the bZ, which can be configured with a single motor driving the front axle), producing a combined 338 horsepower. Toyota claims this setup allows the C-HR to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds.
Toyota also claims the C-HR will offer a range of 290 miles, slightly less than the 314-mile maximum range of the new bZ. The company states that the new motors are more efficient than those used in the outgoing bZ4X (which will simply be called “bZ” for 2026). However, it’s worth noting that the all-wheel-drive models are equipped with two permanent-magnet motors, neither of which features an axle disconnect. This decision is somewhat unusual, as using an induction motor or incorporating an axle disconnect would typically improve efficiency and range, especially during extended highway drives. This suggests that Toyota may still be refining its approach to EV design fundamentals.
DC fast charging for the C-HR peaks at 150 kilowatts, which is considered the bare minimum for an EV to remain competitive in today’s market. The positive development, however, is that Toyota has introduced a battery preconditioning algorithm, which should help reduce charging times, especially in colder temperatures. This feature can be activated either manually or automatically when a fast-charging station is selected through the navigation system.
Squeeze In and Stretch Out
The cabin of the 2026 Toyota C-HR takes a subtly refreshed approach to the design found in the current Toyota bZ4X. It features the familiar digital instrument cluster, along with a larger, standard 14.0-inch touchscreen that runs Toyota’s widely used Audio Multimedia infotainment system. Although the screen itself doesn’t appear much larger, it now integrates the climate controls, which in previous Toyota models were separate physical buttons. The version Toyota presented also featured dual wireless phone chargers within the tall, traditional center console, which would look right at home in a combustion-powered vehicle—if not for the rotary gear selector knob. Upon first inspection, the interior materials seem sufficiently premium, making us reconsider our earlier price expectations.
The extended wheelbase provides just enough rear-seat legroom to comfortably accommodate an adult who is 6 feet 3 inches tall. However, this is somewhat limited by the tight headroom, especially for anyone who could be considered “tall.” While the sloping roofline contributes to the vehicle’s sleek appearance, it does come at the cost of practicality. The cargo area, too, is slightly compromised in terms of dimensions. Nonetheless, the C-HR offers a few premium touches, such as a 1500-watt household outlet, a JBL subwoofer, and an adjustable-height load floor, which help elevate it beyond basic transportation.
It All Comes Down to One Number
When compared to the 2022 C-HR and the 2025 bZ4X, the 2026 Toyota C-HR appears to be a significant upgrade. However, both the previous C-HR and the bZ4X represent some of Toyota’s recent missteps, and the bZ has also undergone a major update for 2026, coinciding with the introduction of this new C-HR. Ultimately, the true test for any new car lies in how it fares against its toughest competitors.
We’ll need to wait for more details and real-world testing before making any final judgments. As we mentioned earlier, the price tag will be the most crucial factor. A price around \$30,000 could be enough to persuade many buyers to overlook any shortcomings in range or charging speeds.
