Toyota has refreshed its funky crossover the C-HR. The official update is set to be launched in August this year but is already being advertised on car search engines and web sites.

The exterior has not been changed much. The front bumper has been redesigned slightly, new headlights and taillights are also part of the update. One aspect that stands out is the new LED light patterns of the lights.

The engine lineup has remained unchanged, but steering feel and feedback has been improved slightly to add to the driving experience.

For those not familiar with the C-HR, its powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, which produces a usable 85kW and 185Nm, available with a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT.

If you dislike CVT’s, fear not. The CVT combined with the 1.2 turbo works well in my opinion. If you drive sedately you will not even notice that you are driving a CVT, but press on and you will notice the CVT, not that it’s bad at all.

Model grades remain unchanged, you still get: 1.2T base (Manual), 1.2T Plus (Manual or CVT) and 1.2T Luxury (CVT).

Standard:

The Standard includes the basics like 17” steel wheels, manual air conditioning, electric windows, multi-function steering wheel, electric park brake, LED headlights, infotainment system plus the new safety package with side and curtain airbags.

Plus:

In addition to the Standard, the Plus gets 18” alloys and also gets cruise control, dual-zone climate control and automatic wipers.

Luxury:

Over the Standard and Plus the Luxury gets many driver aids, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping System, Auto High Beam, Pre-Crash System and Intelligent Park Assist, push-button start, heated front seats and a black rear spoiler.

To sweeten the deal all models comes standard with a three-year/100 000km warranty and a six-year/90 000km service plan.

Pricing (August 2022)

1.2T Standard – R429 000

1.2T Plus – R465 200

1.2T Plus CVT – R479 100

1.2T Luxury CVT – R554 500

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