PLANO, Texas (September 2, 2020) – Toyota continues to redefine the compact crossover segment with the 2021 C-HR, a vehicle that boldly blends sport coupe dynamism, hatchback practicality, and crossover versatility. For the new model year, the 2021 Toyota C-HR doubles down on its distinctive appeal, introducing a striking new Nightshade Edition and enhancing its safety features across all trim levels. This update ensures the 2021 C-HR remains a standout choice for drivers seeking a vehicle that’s as fun to drive as it is safe and stylish.
Introducing the 2021 C-HR Nightshade Edition and Fresh Color Palette
Since its inception, the Toyota C-HR has been a design trailblazer for the brand. Toyota pushed manufacturing boundaries to bring a concept-car aesthetic to the production line, maintaining the sculpted physique that captivated audiences. The result is a unique fusion of sport coupe flair and crossover functionality. For 2021, Toyota amplifies this versatility with the introduction of the Nightshade Edition, adding an extra layer of personalized style to the C-HR lineup.
The 2021 C-HR remains a compact powerhouse, measuring 172.6 inches in overall length with a 103.9-inch wheelbase. This trim and agile footprint makes the C-HR exceptionally well-suited for navigating the complexities of urban driving, offering nimble handling and easy maneuverability.
Building on its already extroverted design, the 2021 C-HR debuts the Nightshade Edition for those seeking an even bolder visual statement. This edition is available in a selection of striking exterior colors, including Black Sand Pearl, Blizzard Pearl with Black Roof, Magnetic Gray Metallic with Black Roof, and Supersonic Red with Black Roof. The Nightshade Edition distinguishes itself further with a suite of blacked-out elements:
- Black fabric interior with gunmetal trim, mirroring the sophisticated LE trim interior.
- Black 18-inch alloy wheels for a more aggressive stance.
- Black lug nuts, door handles, and chin spoiler for cohesive dark accents.
- Black badges, completing the monochromatic theme.
Toyota also refreshed the broader color options for the 2021 C-HR. New additions to the palette include Oxide Bronze, Oxide Bronze with Black Roof, and Magnetic Gray Metallic with Black Roof, offering customers more choices to express their individuality. In contrast, Knockout Silver Metallic and Hot Lava have been discontinued across all trims. Supersonic Red and Blue Eclipse Metallic are now exclusively available on the XLE and Limited trims, adding to their premium appeal.
Carryover colors ensure that popular choices remain, including Blizzard Pearl*, Blue Eclipse Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, and Silver Knockout Metallic.
*Extra Cost Color
Elevated Safety Standards: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Now Standard
A significant enhancement for the 2021 model year is the standardization of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5) across all 2021 Toyota C-HR trims. This comprehensive suite of active safety systems underscores Toyota’s commitment to driver and passenger security, offering peace of mind as standard. TSS 2.5 includes a range of advanced features:
- Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): This system receives notable upgrades for 2021, now enhanced with daytime bicyclist detection and improved low-light pedestrian detection. Emergency steering assist is a new addition, providing steering support to help drivers avoid pedestrians while staying within their lane. Furthermore, the TSS 2.5 PCS w/PD system incorporates intersection support, designed to detect preceding vehicles or pedestrians within an intersection, capable of triggering pre-collision alerts and automatic braking if necessary.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): RSA uses a forward-facing camera to detect road signs, displaying them on the Multi-Information Display (MID) to keep drivers informed of speed limits, warnings, and more.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): DRCC maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, even down to a stop, and can resume smoothly when traffic begins to move. This full-speed range capability enhances driving convenience in various traffic conditions.
- Lane Keeping Technology: This suite includes Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, and Sway Warning System. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist alerts the driver if the system detects the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane and can provide gentle steering corrections. Lane Tracing Assist works with DRCC to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. The Sway Warning System monitors driver steering inputs and can alert the driver if signs of drowsiness or distraction are detected.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): AHB automatically switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic conditions, optimizing visibility for the driver without inconveniencing other motorists.
Beyond TSS 2.5, the 2021 C-HR continues to offer Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), standard on XLE and Limited trims, further enhancing situational awareness.
The foundation of safety is built upon the STAR Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology® (SST). Complementing these systems are 10 standard airbags, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), and a rear backup camera, all contributing to the 2021 C-HR’s comprehensive safety approach.
2021 C-HR: Maintaining its Audacious Appeal and Interior Comfort
The 2021 Toyota C-HR largely carries over the refreshed design elements introduced in 2020, including the redesigned front fascia, headlamps, bumper, grille, and spoiler. The LE trim continues to feature standard LED headlamps and the optional 17-inch alloy wheel design from the previous year. The Limited grade retains its distinctive 18-inch alloy wheel design for 2021.
Inside, all 2021 C-HR models come equipped with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, all trims include a SiriusXM® All Access 3-Month Trial Satellite Radio, providing a wide range of entertainment options.
Small but significant upgrades enhance the user experience in the 2021 C-HR. The XLE trim now includes seatback pockets and windshield visor extensions, practical additions that enhance everyday usability. The top-of-the-line Limited trim, already well-appointed with leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and ambient lighting, elevates its luxury offering with an 8-way power driver’s seat and Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) with headlamp auto-leveling. AFS enhances nighttime driving safety by partially aiming the headlight beams into turns as the driver steers, improving visibility around corners.
Exterior Design: A Head-Turning Aesthetic
Toyota designers truly embraced expressiveness when crafting the C-HR. The slim LED headlights flow dramatically into the hood, extending rearward along the fender tops. Deep, flowing character lines originate from the prominent Toyota badge on the front fascia, leading into the vehicle’s core body. These lines continue below the side windows and above the rear wheel, converging with a high beltline and a distinctive C-pillar featuring hidden-type rear door handles, contributing to its coupe-like profile.
The sport coupe inspiration is further emphasized by the fastback-style roofline, sculpted “wide body” rear quarter panels, and a lip spoiler on the hatchback. At the roof’s edge, a color-matched cantilevered wing adds a refined finishing touch.
Aerodynamic efficiency is subtly integrated into the design. Canards on the rear quarter panels, front and rear spats, a streamlined rear lower bumper, and stabilizing fins within the taillights all contribute to managing airflow around the vehicle. Underneath, rigid covers for the engine, floor, fuel tank, and rear wheel areas minimize turbulence, enhancing vehicle control and fuel efficiency.
Interior Design: The “MeZONE” Cabin
The interior of the 2021 C-HR reflects a modern and uncluttered design philosophy, emphasizing driver-centric ergonomics and bold accent placement. Toyota designers call it the “MeZONE,” a concept that prioritizes both driver enjoyment and passenger comfort.
Soft-touch materials are used throughout the cabin, and the LE and Limited trims feature a Gray headliner, contributing to a more premium feel. Striking interior color combinations are available, designed to create a light and spacious atmosphere.
The XLE trim offers a Blue/Black interior scheme, featuring blue accents on the instrument panel, center console armrest, seat trim, and seat quilting. The Limited trim’s available Black interior includes an orchid instrument panel trim and diamond perforation seat pattern, adding a touch of luxury.
Slim A-pillars and an angled dashboard and control layout provide the driver with a clear view of the road and intuitive access to vehicle functions. Passengers benefit from ample small-item storage, including sculpted in-door pockets, front cup holders, and front and rear bottle holders. Scalloped seatbacks, footwell cubbies beneath the front seats, and a chamfered headliner maximize rear seat spaciousness. Sound-insulating materials in the carpet, headliner, A-pillars, and door trim contribute to a quiet cabin environment.
The 8-inch Toyota Audio display is centrally positioned atop the dashboard for improved visibility and reduced driver eye movement. A 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) within the instrument cluster provides essential vehicle information, including odometer, SPORT and ECO modes, temperature, fuel economy, trip data, G-force monitor, and more.
Practicality remains a key element of the 2021 C-HR. The 60/40 split rear seat folds flat, with seatback lock releases positioned at shoulder height for easy operation. The rear seat design ensures seatbelts do not interfere when folding the seats. Compartments beneath the cargo area deck board and a hidden sidewall compartment offer discreet storage for smaller items. A standard cargo cover keeps the trunk area concealed.
Trim Levels and Features: LE, XLE, and Limited
The 2021 Toyota C-HR offers exceptional value across its three trim levels. Even the entry-level LE trim is generously equipped, featuring standard dual-zone automatic climate control, power/heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, LED headlamps, and Toyota Audio with an 8-inch touchscreen display and 6 speakers. Multimedia features include Android Auto™ Compatibility, Apple CarPlay® Compatibility, Amazon Alexa Compatibility, USB Media Port, Hands-Free Phone Capability, Advanced Voice Recognition, Bluetooth® wireless technology for music streaming, and SiriusXM® with a 3-month All Access Trial. Connected Services include Safety Connect® with a 1-year Trial and Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2 GB within a 3-month Trial, offering features like an Emergency Assistance Button, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Locator.
The LE trim further includes a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with integrated controls, leather-trimmed shift lever, Sport fabric-trimmed front bucket seats, and a 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat.
The XLE trim builds upon the LE, adding 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto-folding side mirrors, “Toyota C-HR” puddle lamps, Smart Key with Push Button Start, Blind Spot Monitor + Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and optional Toyota Audio Plus.
The Limited trim represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology, featuring LED fog lamps, piano-black B-pillar trim, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat adjustment, ambient lighting, chrome window trim, leather-trimmed seats, and an optional Toyota Audio Plus system (also available on XLE and Nightshade).
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The 2021 C-HR is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 144 horsepower and 139 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine incorporates Toyota’s advanced technologies, including Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Valvematic valve lift control, optimizing performance and efficiency.
The front-wheel-drive C-HR comes standard with a Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode (CVTi-S). A preload differential enhances torque distribution to the front wheels at lower speeds, contributing to smoother and more composed driving.
Drivers can tailor their driving experience with Sport mode, accessible via the Multi-Information Display (MID). Sport mode sharpens throttle response, quickens simulated gear changes in the CVT, and maintains higher engine speeds for enhanced acceleration. Sequential Shiftmatic mode allows drivers to manually shift simulated gears for a more engaging driving experience.
The Brake Hold Function, standard on all C-HR trims, maintains braking force at a complete stop, even if the driver reduces brake pedal pressure, enhancing convenience in stop-and-go traffic.
The 2021 Toyota C-HR achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined.
Ride and Handling: Smooth and Agile
Beyond its striking style, the 2021 Toyota C-HR excels in delivering a fun-to-drive experience and a comfortable ride. The Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) C-platform provides a foundation with a low center of gravity, high strength, and low weight. Extensive use of spot welding, gussets, braces, and adhesives in key structural areas results in exceptional rigidity, contributing to both nimble handling and a smooth ride.
The MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are tuned for responsive handling and ride comfort. Features like angled strut bearings, large diameter stabilizer bars, and urethane upper supports in the rear suspension enhance responsiveness and agility.
The column-type Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system provides a sporty steering feel, offering light responsiveness at low speeds and increased feedback at higher speeds. Braking is handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, providing confident stopping power.
Warranty and ToyotaCare
The 2021 Toyota C-HR is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion coverage extends for 60 months with no mileage limitation. ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan, is also standard, covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
