Last month, UMW
Toyota Motor introduced an updated version of the C-HR crossover for the 2019
model year, with a couple of small aesthetic tweaks to keep the B-segment
contender fresh. The most noticeable difference are the new
alloy wheels, which are now of a two-tone turbine design that matches the
18-inch option found in other markets, but remains in a 17-inch diameter. This
wheel design, by the way, has just been introduced in Thailand as well, so this change was done at the factory
and not by UMW Toyota.
You’ll also be able
to spot the silver trim around the front corner air intakes, side mouldings and
rear reflectors which, if you recall, is part of the massive accessories
catalogue in Thailand. This display unit also sports the new Radiant Green
Metallic paint and black roof, which costs an extra RM 800 – the same premium as
Blue Metallic and Red Metallic (both with the black roof), as well as White
Pearl Crystal Shine.
Inside, the only
new component is the head unit – the 6.75-inch Display Audio system now
supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Not shown here is the new
optional TRD Sportivo Aerokit, which adds on massive overfenders and silver
front and rear bumper guards. The whole package, which is built in Thailand and
fitted locally, costs RM 3,990.
Priced at the same
RM 150,000 as before, the C-HR continues to offer automatic projector halogen
headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, front and rear fog
lights, keyless entry, push-button start, automatic wipers, dual-zone climate
control, leather upholstery, powered driver’s side lumbar adjustment (seat
adjustment is still manual), an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a reverse camera
and six speakers.
Safety-wise, there
are seven airbags (including one for the driver’s knee), ABS with EBD and brake
assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC) and ISOFIX rear
child seat anchors, plus a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
(RCTA).
Under the bonnet
sits the same 2ZR-FE 1.8 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine as
before, with Dual VVT-i. Outputs are rated at 137 PS at 6,400 rpm and 170 Nm of
torque at 4,000 rpm, sent to the front wheels via a CVT with a seven-speed
Sequential Shiftmatic mode.
