A new electric SUV has arrived, ready to compete with Kia and Hyundai in the European market. The Toyota C-HR+, a larger and more powerful version of the popular C-HR, is designed to stand out with its distinctive look and strong performance.
The original C-HR, launched in 2016, made waves in Europe with its coupe-like design and bold styling. Having sold over 1 million units, the C-HR became one of Toyota’s top-selling models. Toyota has introduced the C-HR+ to offer an electric alternative with upgraded size and power, positioning it as a competitor to vehicles like the Kia Sportage.
Larger Dimensions and Enhanced Performance
The C-HR+ boasts a longer body than its predecessor, with an extended wheelbase of 108.3 inches (275 cm), providing more interior space—ideal for families.
Powertrain options include a front-wheel-drive single motor and an all-wheel-drive dual motor setup. The single-motor version delivers either 164 or 221 horsepower, while the all-wheel-drive variant reaches an impressive 337 horsepower.
The C-HR+ offers two battery options: a 51.9 kWh or a 69.3 kWh option. The vehicle features a battery preheating system to improve charging efficiency and combat temperature-related losses. It supports fast charging with up to 150 kW of DC fast charging, and onboard AC chargers are available in 11 kW and 22 kW specifications.
European Market Launch: Will It Compete with Hyundai and Kia EVs?
Toyota plans to launch the C-HR+ in Europe by late 2025. The interior features a 14.0-inch touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster, aligning with current EV technology trends. The cargo capacity is 425 liters (15 cubic feet).
Standard driver assistance features include automatic high beams and blind-spot detection, which are part of Toyota’s safety suite. While there is no confirmation of a Korean market launch, strong European sales could lead to direct competition with Hyundai and Kia’s electric SUVs.
Although the previous C-HR was discontinued in the U.S., industry analysts suggest that the C-HR+ might be introduced as a smaller alternative to the bZ4X.
The global automotive industry is closely watching Toyota’s C-HR+ to see if it can compete with Hyundai and Kia in the expanding electric SUV market.
