What is the road clearance of a C-HR?

The Toyota C-HR, a compact crossover SUV, has a ground clearance of 5.9 inches (150 mm). This measurement, known as the road clearance, refers to the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle's body and the ground. The C-HR's road clearance allows it to navigate over small obstacles and uneven terrain with ease, making it a versatile choice for both city driving and light off-road adventures.

Understanding Road Clearance

Road clearance, also called ground clearance, is an important specification for any vehicle, particularly those designed for use on a variety of road surfaces. This measurement indicates how much space is available between the underside of the vehicle and the ground, which can impact the vehicle's ability to traverse obstacles, navigate rough terrain, and avoid scraping the bottom on steep inclines or uneven surfaces.

Vehicles with higher road clearance, such as SUVs and trucks, are generally better equipped to handle off-road conditions, as they can more easily clear rocks, logs, and other obstructions. Conversely, vehicles with lower road clearance, like sedans and hatchbacks, are typically better suited for paved roads and urban environments, where a lower center of gravity can improve handling and fuel efficiency.

The Toyota C-HR's Road Clearance

The Toyota C-HR, a compact crossover SUV, has a road clearance of 5.9 inches (150 mm). This measurement places the C-HR in the middle range for road clearance, making it suitable for both city driving and light off-road use. The C-HR's elevated ride height, compared to a traditional sedan or hatchback, provides several benefits:

• Improved visibility and awareness of surroundings


• Better approach and departure angles for navigating steep inclines and uneven terrain


• Increased ability to clear small obstacles, such as curbs or speed bumps


• Enhanced stability and control, particularly in adverse weather conditions

While the C-HR's road clearance is not as high as that of larger SUVs or trucks, it strikes a balance between off-road capability and on-road performance, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of driving environments.

Comparing the C-HR to Other Vehicles

To put the Toyota C-HR's road clearance into perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other popular vehicles in the same class and segment:

• Honda CR-V: 7.8 inches (198 mm) of ground clearance


• Subaru Outback: 8.7 inches (221 mm) of ground clearance


• Jeep Wrangler: 10.0 inches (254 mm) of ground clearance


• Toyota Corolla: 5.1 inches (130 mm) of ground clearance

As these examples illustrate, the Toyota C-HR's 5.9-inch road clearance places it in the middle of the compact crossover SUV segment, offering more ground clearance than a traditional sedan like the Corolla, but less than more rugged off-road-focused vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.

What is the ground clearance of a Toyota C-HR?

The Toyota C-HR's ground clearance varies by model year and trim, but it is generally around 5.9 inches (150 mm) for many models. Some hybrid versions may have lower clearance, while some regional models, like the 2024 GXL Hybrid in Australia, list it at about 5 inches (130 mm).
 

• Standard models: Many models, including the 2025 C-HR, have a ground clearance of 150 mm (5.9 inches). 
• Hybrid models: Some hybrid variants can have slightly less ground clearance. 
• Regional differences: Specifications can vary by market. For example, an Australian 2024 GXL Hybrid model lists a clearance of 130 mm (5 inches). 
• Plug-in Hybrid: The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version often has significantly less ground clearance. 

What is the bad year of the Toyota C-HR?

The main year to avoid is the 2018 Toyota C-HR, particularly the North American CVT models, due to a higher frequency of complaints about the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Other issues across various years include problems with tire pressure sensors, the 12-volt battery, and infotainment system connectivity, along with blind spot limitations. 
2018 Toyota C-HR 

• Transmission problems: The 2018 model year has the highest number of complaints related to the CVT, with owners reporting issues like loud whining or grinding noises. The problem is reportedly due to a faulty bearing, and while the part is inexpensive, the fix is often the replacement of the entire transmission unit. 
• Other issues: In addition to transmission problems, the 2018 model also sees more complaints about faulty tire pressure sensors, wheel bearings, and other electrical issues. 

Other potential years to be cautious of

• 2017-2023 (General issues): Across these years, owners have reported recurring minor electrical issues like faulty warning lights and sensor malfunctions, such as tire pressure sensors. 
• 2020: Some owners of the 2020 model have reported issues with rear windows cracking or shattering. 
• Early models (2016-2018): Early production models can have issues with noisy shock absorbers and blurry welcome holograms in the mirrors, though these were typically corrected under warranty. 

How to choose a good model

• Check the vehicle history: Before buying any used C-HR, check its maintenance records and history, especially for the 2018 model, to see if the transmission has been replaced or serviced. 
• Inspect for known issues: If possible, have the car inspected by a mechanic and check for the specific issues mentioned above, such as the tire pressure sensor and battery. 
• Consider other years: If you're looking for a used model, years outside of 2018 generally have fewer major complaints. 
• Hybrid vs. gasoline: Hybrid versions of the C-HR are generally reliable, but some hybrid models have been known to have issues with the engine oil level rising above the maximum mark. 

Which Toyota car has the highest ground clearance?

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro has the highest ground clearance at 11.1 inches. Other models with high ground clearance include the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 and the Toyota Fortuner, which have 9.26 and 8.86 inches, respectively. The Toyota Tacoma with the double cab also offers up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance. 
Highest ground clearance Toyota models

• Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro: 11.1 inches
• Toyota Tacoma (Double Cab): 11.5 inches
• Toyota Land Cruiser LC300: 9.26 inches
• Toyota Fortuner: 8.86 inches 

What is the most common problem with the Toyota C-HR hybrid?

The most common Toyota C-HR breakdowns involve the hybrid system, especially when the engine won't start or the entire system malfunctions. The 2019 models with 2.0 Hybrid and 1.8 Hybrid powertrains show characteristic symptoms such as error messages in the BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) and PCS (Pre-Collision System).