In 2016, Toyota introduced the C-HR which is their newest subcompact crossover SUV. It’s an elegant car with a functional body that regular drivers and commuters will appreciate. Its sleek coupe profile and elevated ride height make it a popular choice.
But even though it’s a fantastic and reliable car, the C-HR also has some bad years. We’ve looked at the best and worst years to help you get the most out of your C-HR.
The worst years to avoid the Toyota C-HR are 2018 and 2009. The best years to buy the Toyota C-HR are 2020, 2021, and 2022. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmunds, J.D. Power, Repairpal, and Kelley Blue Book.
Worst Toyota C-HR Years to Avoid
Up until this point, the majority of Toyota C-HR models have been top-notch, with buyers expressing mostly positive experiences. And yet, among all the options, these jump out as inherently poor.
To date, these are the worst year for Toyota’s C-HR:
- 2018 Toyota C-HR
- 2019 Toyota C-HR
2. 2019 Toyota C-HR (4.41 Rating)
After the 2018 model year, the 2019 C-HR has the second-highest complaints. But when compared to other brands in the same category, these concerns are rather small.
A seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism that does not lock is the subject of the first recall. On the other hand, the second recall deals with loose nuts that hold the rear axle hub bearings in place, and the third deals with illegible text on the load capacity placard.
One common complaint is that the CVT transmission isn’t always smooth or quick to respond, which is particularly problematic when shifting gears at low speeds or when the vehicle is first starting up.
Owners also mentioned that the infotainment system had electrical issues, which made it freeze or restart unexpectedly. However, some owners have mentioned that their vehicle’s warning lights sometimes function intermittently due to electrical difficulties.
Some owners have noted that their vehicles generate a lot of wind noise when going very fast, and others have remarked that their brake pads and rotors wear out too quickly, which makes them less effective when braking.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 27 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.4/5.0 expert ratings.
1. 2018 Toyota C-HR (4.20 Rating)
When compared to other C-HR model years, 2018 had the highest number of owner complaints. The electronic parking brake (EPB) is part of the recall because it might not work as intended. Other concerns related to windows and windshields, and some owners have reported damage to the windshield.
A few owners have mentioned that this could be because of a flawed windshield slant. Owners have also voiced concerns about the visibility of the windows, saying that they have trouble seeing out the sides and back, which makes it hard to reverse or change lanes.
In addition, several owners mentioned that the body obscured the view of approaching vehicles since it was wedged between the rear and front windows. The suspension is another common gripe, causing noise and discomfort, particularly on bumpy roads.
Transmission problems have also been reported to cause jerking or lurching occasionally, particularly during slow gear changes or when the vehicle is starting up. A few owners have also voiced their discontent with the noticeable wind noise produced by their vehicles at high speeds, particularly when the driver is at the wheel.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recalls and 109 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.4/5.0 expert ratings.
Best Toyota C-HR Years to Buy
There may only be a few years to go, but some already look better than others. To make your final decision at the dealership much easier, we have reviewed all the options and selected our top three.
- 2020 Toyota C-HR
- 2021 Toyota C-HR
- 2022 Toyota C-HR
3. 2021 Toyota C-HR (4.88 Rating)
There have been few complaints and mostly positive evaluations for the 2021 C-HR. Although the engine is slow and storage is limited, the build quality is good, and it is well-equipped. An average-for-its-class 29 mpg (27 city/31 highway) is achieved by each model’s 144 horsepower four-cylinder engine.
Several features distinguish the 2021 C-HR from its rivals. Among these features are its low cost, energy conservation, solid grip, little body roll, and top-notch handling.
The IIHS gave the 2021 C-HR a Top Safety Picks award. Not only that, but it was given the prestigious five stars for safety by the NHTSA. If you’re in the market for a secondhand automobile, the 2021 C-HR is a solid pick.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 14 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 3.8/5.0 expert ratings.
2. 2020 Toyota C-HR (5.13 Rating)
If you’re in the market for a small SUV with agile handling, the 2020 C-HR is a solid option. People love the 2020 C-HR because of its impressive style, flexible management, dynamic radar cruise control spanning the entire speed range, and an affordable price, with additional benefits.
For this model, three different trim levels are offered: LE, XLE, and Limited. A redesigned front end, Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights as standard equipment, and satellite radio will be available on all trim levels in 2020.
A front-wheel-drive vehicle with a continuously variable gearbox (CVT) and a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 144 horsepower is standard on all trim levels.
Aesthetics, fuel economy, comfort, lighting, gearbox, safety, handling, and steering are some of the reasons why owners love this model. Based on crash tests, the NHTSA gave this model year an excellent overall safety rating of 5 out of 5.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 7 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- J.D. Power: 85/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.4/5.0 expert ratings.
1. 2022 Toyota C-HR (5.19 Rating)
Based on NHTSA statistics, the most reliable model year of the C-HR lineup is the 2022 model, which happens to be the last one ever made. Also, there have been no recalls or complaints reported so far.
The sporty handling, plenty of standard amenities, comfortable/cushioned seats, and unique style are some of its most lauded qualities. However, According to owner reviews, this model’s best features are its engine, technology, interior, comfort, handling, steering, and gas mileage.
In 2022, only the XLE, Nightshade Edition, and Limited trims remained after the standard LE trim was withdrawn. All of the versions are front-wheel drive and equipped with a 2-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 144 horsepower. The transmission is a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
Many people choose the 2022 Toyota C-HR because it has all the needed characteristics. Among them are fun and engaging handling, a full suite of driving assistance, impressive efficiency, and a striking exterior look.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 3.5/5.0 expert ratings.
Common Toyota C-HR Problems
Even though C-HR owners have reported a few problems, some problems are more common in certain model years. They are detailed below.
- Electrical issues
- Overly vigorous vibrations
- Problems with the brakes
- Lack of visibility
- Transmission jerk
- Problems related to fuel economy
- Brake issues
- Efficiency issues with the engine
FAQs
1. Is the Toyota C-HR a reliable car?
The Toyota C-HR has excellent dependability ratings. There are minimal complaints and state-of-the-art technologies. As to cars.usnews.com, the C-HR is highly regarded in its class, with a predicted dependability score of 80 out of 100. It’s a great choice.
2. Is the Toyota C-HR expensive to maintain?
In the first decade of ownership, the Toyota C-HR will cost around $5,000 to fix. That works out to around $500 per year on average, which is lower than the average for cars in that category.
Maintaining your Toyota C-HR regularly will keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Its longevity in your possession is directly proportional to how well you maintain it.
3. How long will a Toyota C-HR last?
It is difficult to assess the Toyota C-HR’s durability because it is a new model. But considering Toyota’s stellar reputation for dependability, we should anticipate a new C-HR to last 150,000 miles (241401.6 km) to 200,000 miles (321868.8 km). As a result, you should have another ten to fifteen years to drive your brand-new Toyota C-HR.
4. What are the other Toyota C-HR alternatives?
- Honda HR-V
- Mazda CX-30
- Kia Soul
- Nissan Kicks
- Hyundai Kona
- Subaru Crosstrek
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Toyota C-HR is a fantastic pick for adding a new car. For the most fantastic and budget-friendly drive, we suggest selecting model years from 2020-2022 because the preceding models, like 2018 and 2019, may have early model teething problems that can compromise driving experience.
