2026 Toyota C-HR EV: A Bold Comeback with Electric Power and AWD
The Toyota C-HR is making a striking return to the U.S. market, this time as an all-electric, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powerhouse. The original C-HR gained popularity for its compact design and edgy styling, but it lacked performance and drivetrain versatility. Now, Toyota is reviving the C-HR nameplate with a 338-horsepower EV powertrain, a 290-mile estimated range, and advanced charging capabilities.
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The Evolution of the C-HR: From Gas to Electric
Toyota’s first iteration of the C-HR was a front-wheel-drive-only subcompact SUV with quirky aesthetics but underwhelming power. Its 144-hp gasoline engine left much to be desired, and despite its affordability—starting just above $25,000—it was discontinued in North America.
Fast forward to 2026, and the C-HR is reborn as an electric vehicle (EV). Now boasting dual electric motors and AWD, this new subcompact SUV delivers more than double the horsepower of its predecessor, offering a 0-60 mph sprint in just five seconds.
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Cutting-Edge Battery Technology and Charging
The Toyota C-HR EV is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, which it shares with the refreshed Toyota bZ (formerly known as the bZ4X). However, the C-HR is a single-battery EV, packing a 67-kWh battery that delivers an estimated range of 290 miles. This efficient battery setup means long road trips and daily commutes without range anxiety.
Charging is another area where the 2026 Toyota C-HR EV stands out. It is equipped with an 11-kW onboard charger and features a NACS charge port, making it fully compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network. Toyota claims the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes with a peak charging speed of 150 kW.
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Design and Interior: Sleek, Sporty, and Tech-Focused
Visually, the C-HR EV stays true to Toyota’s “hammerhead” front-end styling, creating a bold presence. The coupe-like roofline and sharp body contours add to its dynamic and aggressive appeal. Compared to the Toyota bZ, the C-HR is slightly smaller—measuring 177.7 inches in length with a 108.3-inch wheelbase—putting it in direct competition with the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV.
Inside the C-HR EV, the cabin closely resembles the updated Toyota bZ. It features a high-mounted digital gauge cluster and a large 14.0-inch touchscreen for controls. There are two wireless charging pads for phones. The front seats are heated, and the driver’s seat can be adjusted with power controls.
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The Toyota C-HR EV will be available in two trims—SE and XSE. While the base SE trim offers 18-inch wheels, parking sensors, and a power liftgate, the XSE trim brings larger 20-inch wheels, upgraded upholstery, a 360-degree camera system, and more advanced driver assistance features.
Expected Pricing and Release Date
Toyota has yet to announce exact pricing for the 2026 C-HR EV, but industry experts predict a starting price of around $35,000 for the SE trim, with the XSE trim likely pushing closer to $38,000. Toyota confirms that the C-HR EV will go on sale in 2026, but further details, including final pricing, are expected to be revealed in the coming months.
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The return of the Toyota C-HR to the U.S. as a fully electric AWD subcompact SUV is a significant move for Toyota’s EV lineup. With impressive performance specs, cutting-edge technology, and access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network, the C-HR EV is poised to be a compelling choice for American EV buyers.
