The Malaysian variant of the popular Toyota C-HR has been slightly upgraded for 2019. As it enters its second year in the Malaysian market, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd is now offering the fashion forward looking C-HR with some cosmetic updates as well as adding an optional TRD bodykit (Aerokit) for customers to choose.
Breaking down the upgrades, we start with the exterior first. The 2019 model year C-HR is now fitted with a new 17 inch two tone lightweight alloy wheel design. There are new garnish strips on the front and rear bumpers, and the addition of body mouldings along the sides highlight the emotive surfacing of the body exterior. This complements the C-HR's Keen Look Identity (what Toyota calls this edgy type of styling which their newer sportier cars now have).
There is also an optional TRD Aerokit which has been developed by TRD, Toyota’s performance division. The Aerokit adds extensions to the front and rear bumpers which have a metallic finish and overfenders around the wheel arches give a more muscular look. The TRD Aerokit is manufactured to Toyota’s high standards and just like the C-HR, comes fully imported from Toyota’s regional production hub for the C-HR in Thailand. Installation is done by professionals at UMW Toyota Motor’s own facility and the parts are also covered by a warranty. It is about time the officially imported variant of the C-HR is offered with the bodykit. Prior to this it was either an aftermarket add-on or you would have spotted in on a grey import car. The C-HR looks very nice with the Aerokit by the way.
As for the exterior colours, there are 6 exterior colours choices with Radiant Green Metallic being a new addition for 2019. The other 5 colours are Metal Stream Metallic, White Pearl, Blue Metallic, Attitude Black and Red Mica. To accentuate its stand-out style, the vehicles in Blue Metallic, Radiant Green Metallic and Red Mica comes with a contrasting black roof.
Continuining with the interior of the C-HR, the cabin retains its ‘diamond’ architectural theme styling. However, the infotainment system has been upgraded to a new one that has a 6.75-inch display touchscreen with Apple CarplayTM and Android AutoTM Connectivity. This means that most of the apps on compatible smartphones can also be accessed from the display screen which has a simpler interface for easier and more intuitive navigation. Voice Recognition also makes it easier for certain operations, allowing the driver to keep his hands on the steering wheel.
As before, the officially imported C-HR is powered by a Toyota 2ZR-FBE 1.8liter petrol engine which produces 140 ps and maximum torque of 171 Nm. It is fitted with Toyota's Super ECT 7-speed automatic transmission with Shiftmatic provides optimal balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The driver can also choose from three Driving Modes – ECO, NORMAL and SPORT. The gearbox drives the front wheels of this compact crossover.
As with the other new Toyota models, the C-HR is fitted Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Blind Spot Monitoring system, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and even a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
All authorised Toyota outlets in Malaysia have started to accept bookings for the 2019 C-HR. According to UMW Toyota Motor, there is no change in retail prices that start from RM150,000 for private registration. Deliveries for this C-HR are scheduled to commence in February.
To date, UMW Toyota Motor has sold over 4000 units in 2018 and they are confident that the new updates will be well accepted by its customers. I personally feel that the new upgrades, especially the Aerokit now offered as an option will make the C-HR a popular choice among those in the RM150,000 SUV/Crossover segment.
Further information on the C-HR and other Toyota models can be found at toyota.com.my or any authorised dealer
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