Is the Toyota C-HR fuel efficient?

Yes. For its class, the Toyota C-HR is considered relatively fuel-efficient, especially in its front-wheel-drive form. In the United States, the current gasoline-only C-HR typically posts EPA estimates around the high 20s mpg in combined city/highway driving, with front-wheel-drive versions often delivering about 27 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and roughly 29 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive models usually show a slight dip in efficiency. In other markets, Toyota has offered a C-HR hybrid variant that can achieve noticeably higher mpg.

The question looks at official fuel-economy ratings, real-world performance, and how different powertrains and regional offerings influence the car’s efficiency. It also invites a comparison with rivals in the subcompact SUV segment and a look at practical factors that affect daily fuel use.

Understanding how the C-HR achieves its efficiency

The standard C-HR sold in the United States runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Customers can choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). In the U.S., there is no hybrid variant of the C-HR on offer, so efficiency must come from the gas-powered setup and drivetrain choice. In contrast, several other markets have offered a hybrid version that uses a different powertrain to improve fuel economy.

Fuel-economy snapshots for the US market

Below is a snapshot of EPA estimates for the current US C-HR by drivetrain. Note that numbers can vary slightly by model year and equipment.

• Front-wheel-drive (2.0L, CVT): approximately 27 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined


• All-wheel-drive (2.0L, CVT): roughly 27 mpg city, 29–30 mpg highway, about 28–29 mpg combined

These figures indicate that the C-HR delivers competitive efficiency for a small SUV, with the front-drive version offering the best overall economy. Real-world results may vary based on driving style, climate, and tire choice.

Real-world performance and comparisons

Real-world mpg typically tracks EPA estimates in steady highway cruising and calm urban driving, but aggressive acceleration, repeated stops, and heavy loads can reduce efficiency. The CVT tends to feel smoother with conservative, gradual acceleration, which helps maximize mpg. When compared with rivals in the subcompact crossover segment, the C-HR’s efficiency is competitive with vehicles using similar 2.0-liter engines and CVTs, though some rivals offer more aggressive efficiency or hybrid options that beat the gasoline-only C-HR on fuel economy.

Market variations and hybrid option

Outside the United States, Toyota has offered a C-HR hybrid in some markets, which typically delivers significantly higher fuel economy than the gasoline-only version. If you are considering a C-HR outside the U.S., check local specifications to see whether a hybrid variant is available and how its economy compares to the non-hybrid model.

What to consider when evaluating fuel economy

When assessing the C-HR for efficiency, consider how you typically drive and where you drive most—urban streets, highways, or a mix. Also note regional powertrain availability, tire choices, and load, all of which can influence mpg.

• Driving patterns: city-heavy commutes vs. highway cruising


• Powertrain availability in your region (gasoline-only in the U.S. vs. potential hybrid in others)


• Tire choice and maintenance: low-rolling-resistance tires and proper inflation boost efficiency


• Vehicle load and aerodynamics: roof racks, cargo, and accessories can affect mpg

In summary, the Toyota C-HR offers solid fuel efficiency within the subcompact SUV class, especially in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The availability of a hybrid variant in other markets provides an option for even higher efficiency where offered. For U.S. buyers prioritizing fuel savings, the FWD gasoline model represents the best value, with real-world mpg generally in line with EPA estimates when driven conservatively.

Summary

The Toyota C-HR is a competitive choice for fuel economy among subcompact SUVs. In the United States, the gas-only C-HR with front-wheel drive typically achieves roughly 27 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and about 29 mpg combined, with AWD being a bit less efficient. In other regions, a hybrid variant offers markedly higher fuel economy. Real-world results depend on driving style, conditions, and equipment, but overall the C-HR balances practicality with respectable efficiency for its size class.

Why is Toyota discontinuing the C-HR?

The Toyota C-HR was discontinued in North America after the 2022 model year due to low sales compared to the more popular Corolla Cross, which offers a combination of utility and efficiency. Other factors contributing to its discontinuation included its small interior space, underpowered engine, and the fact that it was only available in front-wheel drive. The Corolla Cross was the more practical choice for buyers and has become the smallest crossover in Toyota's lineup.
 

• Lower sales: The C-HR never reached the sales figures of competing models, and even the Corolla Cross sold significantly more units when it was introduced. 
• Practicality issues: The C-HR's stylish, coupe-like design came at the cost of a cramped rear seat and limited cargo space. 
• Performance: The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 144 horsepower was seen as underpowered, and it was only offered in a front-wheel-drive configuration, which was less appealing to consumers looking for more capability. 
• Internal competition: The Corolla Cross was a more practical and appealing option that cannibalized C-HR sales and offered all-wheel drive, which was a key feature for many buyers. 
• Product lineup evaluation: Toyota is constantly evaluating its product lineup, and the C-HR's discontinuation made way for other models like the Corolla Cross, which offered a better combination of utility and efficiency for the compact SUV segment. 

What is the actual mpg of a Toyota C-HR?

Overall, after a week of mixed driving, we averaged 49.2mpg. This is considerably short of the official 72.4mpg. Hybrids can be very economical if driven very carefully.

Is the Toyota C-HR good on gas?

Despite its bold styling, the 2021 Toyota C-HR is an SUV designed to deliver high fuel economy rather than satisfying speed or eye-widening handling. Its four-cylinder engine is underpowered and slow to get up to speed, but the C-HR's 37-mpg result in our highway fuel economy testing is the payoff for your patience.

What is the common issue with Toyota C-HR?

Common problems reported for the Toyota C-HR include issues with the CVT transmission in earlier models (2018), problems with the 12-volt battery and charging system, electrical gremlins like faulty warning lights, and paint-related concerns. Other less frequent issues include blind spot limitations, infotainment system glitches, and potential wear on interior materials.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the common problems with Toyota C-HR: 58sReDrivenYouTube · Oct 29, 2023
Powertrain and engine 

• CVT transmission: Some 2018 models have reported noisy, grinding, or humming sounds, potentially due to a faulty final drive bearing. The fix can be expensive, as it may require replacing the entire transmission unit. 
• 12-volt battery: The 12-volt battery can have issues, sometimes due to its small capacity and being drained by electronics. This can cause starting problems, even though it's not a major engine failure. 
• Engine: In some cases, the engine oil level may rise above the maximum mark, though this is reportedly not a safety issue. 

Electrical and electronic systems 

• TPMS sensors: A common issue is the failure of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors. 
• Electrical gremlins: Other electrical problems can include faulty warning lights, general sensor malfunctions, and connectivity issues with the infotainment system. 
• Pre-Collision System (PCS): The warning light may activate frequently in rainy or snowy conditions, but the system usually resolves itself once it dries. 

Body and interior

• Paint: Some owners have reported issues with paint, especially on white models.
• Interior wear: The leather on the steering wheel, gear knob, and seats can show wear over time.
• Rear windows: Some 2020 models have experienced rear window cracking or shattering.
• Blind spot: Due to the design of the C-HR, visibility is limited, which can make lane changes challenging and create a blind spot. 

Suspension

• Shock absorbers: Early models sometimes had noisy shock absorbers. 
• Suspension components: Owners have reported premature wear on some suspension components.