The 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE enters a competitive sub-compact crossover market, bringing a distinctive style and a focus on urban driving. For those accustomed to larger SUVs, the C-HR XLE presents a re-evaluation of what a utility vehicle can be, prioritizing maneuverability and efficiency without sacrificing Toyota’s renowned reliability. This review delves into the specifics of the 2018 C-HR XLE, exploring its performance, design, features, and overall value proposition for today’s driver.
In a landscape where vehicles often blend together, the Toyota C-HR, short for “Coupe-High Rider,” carves its own path. While some might categorize it as a hatchback in spirit, the C-HR XLE offers a slightly elevated driving position, though it doesn’t replicate the commanding view of a traditional SUV. However, this design choice translates to ease of entry and exit, a welcomed feature appreciated by passengers of all sizes. The comfortable access is a practical benefit in daily driving scenarios.
Ground clearance is often a key consideration for SUV enthusiasts, influencing a vehicle’s ability to navigate varied terrains. The 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE features a ground clearance of 5.9 inches. This measurement, lower than even the 2018 Corolla’s 6.7 inches, signals the C-HR’s primary focus: on-road performance. It’s engineered for city streets and highways, not off-road adventures. Reinforcing this urban focus, the C-HR XLE is configured with front-engine, front-wheel drive, and currently lacks an all-wheel-drive option. Standard features include a four-wheel independent suspension system, incorporating MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone multi-link setup in the rear, along with stabilizer bars for enhanced handling, and four-wheel disc brakes. Toyota emphasizes the C-HR’s sporty driving dynamics, aiming for “cunning responsiveness, linearity, consistency, and comfort.” While perhaps not a sports car in the traditional sense, the C-HR XLE does deliver surprising agility and composure in cornering situations. Even on challenging road conditions, like poorly designed on-ramps with tight turns and uneven surfaces, the C-HR XLE maintains stability and control, requiring minimal driver input. The Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system contributes to this confident handling, providing a balanced feel and consistent weight, especially at highway speeds.
Powering the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. This engine output is well-matched to the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The pairing ensures smooth power delivery and eliminates torque steer, even under heavier acceleration. While CVTs may not appeal to all drivers, particularly those preferring traditional automatic or manual transmissions, the C-HR XLE’s CVT is designed for efficiency and seamless operation. For drivers seeking a more engaging experience, a manual-shift mode, simulating a seven-speed transmission, is accessible via the gear selector. However, in typical driving scenarios, allowing the CVT to operate automatically yields the most efficient performance. The EPA estimates the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE fuel economy at 27 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and longer trips.
The exterior styling of the Toyota C-HR XLE distinguishes it from other Toyota SUVs and cars. It boasts a modern, almost avant-garde design with sculpted lines and a sporty stance, further emphasized by standard 18-inch alloy wheels. Despite its relatively tall cabin height (61.6 inches), Toyota engineers have achieved a drag coefficient of 0.34. This aerodynamic efficiency is a result of meticulous detailing and the incorporation of rigid underbody covers. The interior design of the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE is equally thoughtful, featuring a driver-focused cockpit and a recurring diamond-arrow motif integrated into various design elements.
Practicality is also a highlight in the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE, particularly in its cargo area. The vehicle includes a standard cargo cover and hidden storage compartments located beneath the load floor and along the sidewalls. With the rear seats in place, the C-HR XLE offers 19.0 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding down the 60/40-split second-row seats expands this capacity to 36.4 cubic feet. This provides ample room for luggage, groceries, or even accommodating larger pets comfortably.
Safety is a core attribute of the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE, featuring standard Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P). This comprehensive suite of safety technologies includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. These advanced safety systems are valuable additions to a sub-compact crossover. The XLE Premium trim level further enhances safety with the inclusion of Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Interestingly, the 2018 C-HR XLE does not offer a factory-installed premium audio or navigation system. It features a 7.0-inch touchscreen display in the center of the dash, equipped with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming. However, smartphone-based navigation mirroring was not available in the 2018 model year. This changed in the 2019 model year, with an upgraded 8.0-inch touchscreen system incorporating Entune and Apple CarPlay.
The 2018 Toyota C-HR is available in two trim levels: the XLE, with a starting price of $22,500, and the XLE Premium, starting at $24,350. The test vehicle, an XLE Premium, had an as-tested price of $26,528. Optional features like the R-Code Color Keyed Body with White Roof and Mirrors package, as seen on the Ruby Flare and Iceberg example, further enhance the C-HR’s visual appeal.
While personal preferences may lean towards larger SUVs, the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE presents a compelling option in the sub-compact crossover segment. It stands as a worthy competitor against models like the Honda HR-V, Nissan Kicks, and Mazda CX-3. The C-HR XLE encourages a practical approach to vehicle ownership, suggesting that right-sizing to everyday needs can be more beneficial than prioritizing unused capacity and capability. For drivers seeking a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped crossover for urban environments, the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE deserves serious consideration.
