Why is the Toyota C-HR discontinued?

In short, Toyota discontinued the C-HR in North America, with the Corolla Cross replacing it in that market. In other regions, the C-HR remains available in updated forms depending on demand.

Beyond that, the decision reflects a broader shift in Toyota's lineup toward more popular, electrified crossovers and a drive to simplify production by leveraging shared platforms. Market differences also shape how the C-HR is positioned in various regions, with some markets continuing to see the model alongside newer offerings.

What led to the decision

The C-HR's discontinuation was driven by a combination of market performance, product positioning, and broader electrification goals. The following factors played major roles:

• Weak sales in key markets, particularly in North America, where the C-HR lagged behind rivals in its segment.


• Overlap with the Corolla Cross, which offered more space, better efficiency, optional all-wheel drive, and a more modern interior — cannibalizing C-HR demand.


• High ongoing costs to update an aging platform and keep up with safety and tech standards, compared with newer crossovers built from Toyota's latest TNGA architecture.


• Strategic shift toward electrified crossovers and hybrids, with Toyota prioritizing models expected to deliver stronger margins and faster returns on investments.

Taken together, these elements explain why Toyota chose to discontinue the C-HR in several markets and refocus its compact crossover strategy around newer models and electrified options.

What replaced it in major markets

In North America, the Corolla Cross emerged as the direct replacement for the C-HR, sharing components, drivetrains, and a hybrid option to deliver similar efficiency and practicality in a more versatile package.

• North America: Corolla Cross filled the compact crossover slot previously occupied by the C-HR, offering more interior space and hybrid powertrains.


• Other markets: Toyota has varied strategies, with the C-HR continuing in some regions under updated styling or integrated into newer lineups, while other markets have shifted focus to different crossovers or refreshed versions of the model.

These regional adjustments reflect Toyota's efforts to optimize its lineup for demand and profitability while embracing electrification where it makes sense.

What buyers should consider now

For customers who previously considered the C-HR, several Toyota options fit the same compact crossover niche, each with different emphasis on space, efficiency, and technology:

• Corolla Cross: The closest replacement in North America, with more interior space and optional hybrid powertrains.


• RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid: Offers more cargo space and a broader range of powertrains, including hybrid options, for those needing extra versatility.


• Other markets’ options: Depending on the country, alternatives like the Yaris Cross or other small crossovers may still be available.

Shoppers should compare cargo capacity, seating comfort, off-the-line performance, and fuel economy to determine the best model for their needs in a given market.

Market timing and future outlook

Toyota's decision aligns with a broader strategy to streamline its offerings and accelerate electrification. By focusing on the Corolla Cross and other high-demand crossovers, Toyota aims to improve margins, simplify supply chains, and push hybrid and electric variants across its lineup. As of 2024–2025, Toyota has not signaled a return of the C-HR to the North American market; the Corolla Cross remains the direct entry in that segment. In other regions, the C-HR's status varies with regional demand and regulatory factors.

Summary

The C-HR's discontinuation marks a strategic pivot for Toyota, prioritizing models with stronger sales potential and electrified options. In North America, the Corolla Cross has taken its place in the lineup, while other markets have responded with varying approaches—from continued C-HR availability to new crossovers built on shared platforms. For buyers, the shift points toward choosing the Corolla Cross or other Toyota crossovers, especially if hybrid options and modern safety tech are priorities.

Why did Toyota stop making C-HR?

In 2022, the final model year, Toyota sold 12,141 C-HR's down a total of 66 percent from the previous year's 35,707 cars sold. Worse yet is how it compared to other Toyotas. In 2022, Toyota sold 399,941 RAV4s. A sales disaster may have been the reason why the C-HR was axed from a business perspective.

What is the common problem of 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. 

Which year C-HR to avoid?

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. 

Is Toyota bringing back the C-HR?

Yes, Toyota is bringing back the C-HR for the 2026 model year, but it is an all-new, all-electric model. The 2026 C-HR will have a new design, a battery-electric powertrain with up to 338 horsepower, and a manufacturer-estimated range of around 290 miles.
 
Key features of the 2026 C-HR

• All-electric powertrain: The vehicle will be fully electric, with a combined output of 338 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. 
• Range and charging: It is estimated to have a 290-mile all-electric range and can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes at a DC fast charger. It also features the North American Charging System (NACS) port and plug-and-charge technology. 
• Performance: It is designed with a performance-inspired spirit, with a manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds. 
• Design: The exterior has a coupe-like style with a new, eye-catching design and comes in sporty SE and XSSE trim levels. 
• Technology: The interior will feature a 14-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital driver display, and two wireless charging pads. 
• Safety: It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes pre-collision braking and adaptive cruise control, with other features like traffic jam assist and lane changing assist available.