The 2026 Toyota C-HR: A Complete Electric Transformation

Toyota’s electric comeback car is here, and it’s not just a new version; it’s a whole new vehicle. The 2026 Toyota C-HR has evolved into something entirely different from its gas-powered ancestor. This electric crossover packs impressive muscle, cutting-edge tech, and head-turning looks that might just change how you view Toyota’s electric vehicles (EVs). So, should you be excited about the 2026 C-HR? Our team at Longo Toyota in El Monte, California, is here with a Toyota C-HR review to help you decide if it’s the right car for you.

Performance and Powertrain

The all-electric 2026 Toyota C-HR will be available in SE and XSE trims, both more powerful than their predecessors, with a 74.7 kWh battery pack and dual electric motors that produce 338 horsepower. The C-HR is expected to go from 0 to 60 mph in about 5 seconds, which is impressive for what used to be a fairly average family car. All-wheel drive comes standard thanks to motors at both ends, giving you instant acceleration and a top speed of 112 mph.

The e-TNGA platform delivers better handling than older Toyota electric cars thanks to a stiffer body and an improved suspension setup. With batteries mounted in the floor, the car stays planted in corners, and you’ll be able to adjust regenerative braking through four different settings using paddle shifters, letting you control how aggressively it slows when you lift off the gas.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency

Toyota says the new C-HR will go about 290 miles on a full charge, Although EPA MPGe estimates have not been released yet, most electric cars have better efficiency in city driving than highway cruising. If you’re stuck in I-10 traffic, this means you’ll do better in stop-and-go conditions than on open roads, which is a nice bonus if you’re a daily commuter.

For a quick charge, Toyota estimates that the C-HR will be able to go from 10% to 80% battery in about 30 minutes with DC fast charging, peaking at 150 kW. At home, the 11 kW onboard charger with Level 2 equipment will likely let you top up the battery overnight. It will have an NACS port that works with Tesla Superchargers, opening up access to over 12,000 charging stations across North America, and will also be charged from Level 1 power sources. The C-HR will also have a preconditioning function that warms up or cools down the battery before charging to get the best speeds, no matter the weather.

Interior Design and Technology

Inside, the base SE trim will have heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, wireless phone charging pads, and a 14-inch touch screen for music and climate control. The digital dash sits high up with custom layouts, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work with multiple USB-C ports and dual Bluetooth. There’s also 25.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which allows the C-HR to compete with the Hyundai KONA and the Chevrolet Equinox EV.

SE models feature SofTex synthetic leather, while the XSE adds synthetic suede. XSE models also include synthetic leather seats, a panoramic roof, a 360-degree camera, a digital rearview mirror, and 20-inch wheels. The JBL Premium Audio package includes nine speakers and an 800-watt amp.

Pricing, Release Timeline, and Availability

Toyota hasn’t provided specific pricing or release date information yet, just saying it will arrive sometime in 2026. However, if the Toyota C-HR price falls within the expected $30K-$38K range, it will be an attractive proposition compared to other affordable EVs.

At Longo Toyota, we can’t wait to start offering the C-HR, but widespread preorder info isn’t available yet as Toyota figures out production timing and which dealers will get how many cars. Unlike some EV makers that limit early sales to specific regions, Toyota will offer the 2026 C-HR nationwide from the start, following its typical approach for mainstream models.

Your Next Electric Adventure Awaits

The 2026 Toyota C-HR is making the leap from boring compact to zippy electric crossover, and it could be Toyota’s big EV breakthrough. If you’re an El Monte driver who wants the benefits of an electric car without sacrificing Toyota reliability, the C-HR might be worth waiting for. For more information on the new C-HR, visit us at Longo Toyota. Our experienced team can give you updates on when the C-HR will arrive at our dealership and discuss your financing or trade-in options. We understand EV technology and can help you find the right car for your California lifestyle.

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