The Electric C-HR Is Back, and It’s Faster Than You Think
Toyota’s bringing back the C-HR nameplate for 2026, but this time around, things are different. Really different. That quirky subcompact crossover that left American showrooms in 2022? It returns as an all-electric performer packing 338 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a claimed 0-60 time of around five seconds. Yes, the same model that once crawled to 60 mph in over 11 seconds now gets there in about half the time.
- Dual electric motors deliver 338 combined horsepower with all-wheel drive included on every model for quick acceleration.
- A 74.7-kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated 290 miles of range with DC fast charging capability.
- Both SE and XSE trims come loaded with tech, including a 14-inch touchscreen and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
What Makes the C-HR Different This Time
That original C-HR had wild styling but suffered from sluggish acceleration and limited visibility. Toyota took those criticisms to heart. This 2026 model keeps that coupe-like silhouette but adds meaningful improvements. It measures five inches longer and about two inches wider, translating to more interior space.
Two electric motors replace that old four-cylinder engine, with one up front and one in back. Together, they generate 338 horsepower and send torque to all four wheels. Toyota estimates this setup will launch the C-HR to 60 mph in approximately five seconds—a massive jump from the old model’s 11-second sprint.
Quick Reference Chart
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual electric motors (front and rear) |
| Total Output | 338 horsepower combined |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (included on all trims) |
| Battery Capacity | 74.7 kWh |
| EPA Range | Up to 290 miles |
| 0-60 mph | Approximately 5 seconds (manufacturer estimate) |
| Charging Port | NACS (compatible with Tesla Superchargers) |
| DC Fast Charging | 10-80% in around 30 minutes |
| Available Trims | SE, XSE |
| Base Price | SE starts at $38,450; XSE starts at $40,450 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Space | 25.4 cubic feet behind rear seats |
| Wheelbase | 108.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 177.9 inches |
Range and Charging That Actually Works
One area where the C-HR stands out is its charging setup. Toyota equipped this thing with a NACS port, which means you can plug in at any Tesla Supercharger across the country. That’s thousands of fast-charging stations right out of the gate.
Battery capacity hits 74.7 kWh, delivering an EPA-estimated 290 miles on a full charge. DC fast charging gets you from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes under good conditions. Regenerative braking comes with paddle shifters on the steering wheel, letting you select from four different levels to convert kinetic energy back into battery charge.
Inside the Cabin
Toyota made serious upgrades to the interior. That dashboard features a tiered design with a 14-inch touchscreen, horizontal air vents, and a floating center console. The digital instrument cluster sits recessed behind the steering wheel.
Both trims come with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. SE models ride on 18-inch wheels with cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, rain-sensing wipers, and a power liftgate. XSE adds 20-inch wheels, SofTex with synthetic suede, and an optional two-tone roof. Both offer dual wireless charging pads and an available nine-speaker JBL audio system. Rear passengers get USB Type-C ports and decent legroom, while split-folding rear seats expand cargo capacity beyond 25.4 cubic feet.
Safety Features Come Included
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes on every C-HR, bundling forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering steering, lane departure alert, road-sign recognition, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitors, cross-traffic alert, parking sensors with automatic braking, and Toyota’s Proactive Driving Assist system round out the package.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
Electric subcompact crossovers have gotten crowded fast. Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Volvo EX30 all compete for similar buyers. C-HR’s 338 horsepower puts it near the top of the class, and that sub-five-second 0-60 time matches or beats most rivals. Range-wise, 290 miles lands squarely in the middle of the pack. Where the C-HR pulls ahead is styling—this thing doesn’t look like anything else on the road.
Pricing starts at $38,450 for the SE trim, which undercuts some competitors while matching others. XSE at $40,450 brings enough extra features to justify the jump. Both prices position the C-HR competitively when you factor in AWD on every model and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Colors and Availability
Both trims offer five exterior colors, including two new options: Overcast and Tandoori. Rounding out the palette are Cement, Midnight Black Metallic, and Wind Chill Pearl (premium option). XSE buyers can add two-tone combinations that pair select colors with a Midnight Black Metallic roof.
Expect the 2026 Toyota C-HR to arrive at dealerships by mid-2026. Toyota hasn’t announced a specific on-sale date yet. C-HR will be built in Japan and shipped to North America, so availability might be limited at first as production ramps up.
Worth the Wait
Toyota took its time bringing the C-HR back to America, and that patience paid off. That old gas-powered model had potential but fell short in execution. This electric version addresses those shortcomings with 338 horsepower, 290 miles of range, and a modern interior. Starting price sits in a sweet spot for the segment, and AWD on every model adds year-round capability. If you’ve been waiting for an electric crossover that doesn’t sacrifice style or driving fun, the C-HR needs serious attention.
See the C-HR at Toyota South
When the 2026 Toyota C-HR arrives in Richmond, we’ll have both trims ready for test drives. You need to feel that instant torque from the electric motors and see how the cabin layout works for your daily routine. Our team can walk you through the charging options, explain the regenerative braking system, and help you figure out which trim makes sense for your budget.
As a fourth-generation family-owned dealership, we’ve been helping Kentucky drivers find the right Toyota for over a century. Stop by and take one for a spin, or browse our current inventory online and apply for financing before you visit.
Connect with us
