The all-new second-generation 2023 Toyota C-HR has made its global debut. Toyota says that it builds upon the success of the first-generation C-HR, featuring bold styling, advanced hybrid powertrains, enhanced safety features, improved driving dynamics, and a range of convenient features.

The 2023 Toyota C-HR boasts a slightly shorter and wider profile than its predecessor. It retains the coupe-like profile, short overhangs, and is available 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inspired by the C-HR Prologue Concept, the front end showcases a bold design language with C-shape headlamps, while the diamond-cut character lines along the vehicle's sides add texture. The 2023 Toyota C-HR features flush door handles, which the company calls “concealed tech” approach, for a seamless and aerodynamic look.

Also read: All-new 2023 Toyota C-HR previewed in concept - Hybrid and PHEV powertrains announced

Depending on market availability, the all-new C-HR gets three electrified powertrain options, including hybrid electric (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) models – 1.8-litre HEV, 2.0-litre HEV, and 2.0-litre PHEV.

The new 1.8-litre HEV powertrain provides a combined maximum power output of 140 PS, while the 2.0-litre HEV outputs 197 PS. The 2.0 PHEV variant gets stronger electric motor that bumps up the combined output to 223 PS.

The fifth-generation hybrid powertrains have undergone significant improvements, including redesigned key components to reduce size and weight. These enhancements, such as a new transaxle and power control unit (PCU), along with a more powerful high-voltage battery, result in an optimal balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

The new powertrains have been calibrated to provide intuitive acceleration and responsiveness, enhancing the driving experience and driver confidence. Suspension, brakes, and steering have also been redesigned and tuned to achieve an optimal balance between vehicle poise, ride comfort, and agility.

Inside the cabin, there’s a fully digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and 64-colour ambient lighting.

The lighting system supports safety by changing to red when the Safe Exit Assist system detects a potential collision with approaching traffic or cyclists.

Owners can use the MyT smartphone app to remotely control vehicle functions, including pre-heating or cooling the car. The all-new C-HR also boasts an automatic parking function and a remote parking app, enabling precise manoeuvring in tight spaces with the driver outside the vehicle.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite of ADAS is featured across all variants. These features have been expanded to enhance protection against common accident risks and ease the driver's workload.

Notable developments include Acceleration Suppression, which reduces sudden throttle input when a potential collision with a vehicle ahead is detected.

The Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) system operates at low speeds and ensures smooth deceleration when approaching a slower vehicle or entering a bend. It also provides Steering Assist to assist in making stable turns.

There’s an option to select an advanced safety package, which includes features like Lane Change Assist with Front Cross Traffic Alert, a Driver Monitor Camera for enhanced driver assistance, an Automatic High-Beam System with camera control, and hands-free driving capability in stop-start traffic (subject to local regulations).

Closer to home, the all-new 2023 Toyota C-HR is unlikely to make its way to our region, Singapore aside. The first-generation C-HR wasn't too much of a strong seller in Malaysia, and UMW Toyota Motor stopped selling it here in 2020 to make way for the Toyota Corolla Cross, which has taken the slot of the C-HR since its discontinuation.

Also read: Toyota to launch 4 new hybrid models in Thailand this year; reiterates multi-pathway strategy for ASEAN