Toyota C-HR hybrid 2019 launching in Australia Q4 2019

Yet to be confirmed by Toyota Australia but rumoured since the C-HR release in late 2017, CarsGuide understands hybrid variants of the small SUV are due on sale in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Using the same 91kW 1.8-litre hybrid drivetrain as the Prius and Corolla hybrid, the C-HR is capable of combined cycle fuel economy of around 4.5L/100km, which betters the current C-HR 1.2-litre turbo by 6kW and almost 2.0L/100km.

The C-HR hybrid will replace the current model's 'turbo' badge with this 'hybrid' version.

Offered in Europe, Japan and other parts of Asia since the C-HR’s global release, multiple hybrid models will reportedly launch as part of a revamped Australian line-up with new tech including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as new pricing and equipment. 

Currently available in two models - C-HR and Koba - the 2019 Toyota C-HR is offered with a single drivetrain: an 85kW/175Nm 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with either a six-speed manual on the base model, or a CVT auto elsewhere. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available, though the hybrid is expected to be only available as a front-driver.

All Toyota hybrids feature blue Toyota badging.

Visual changes to the hybrid are limited to specific badging, unique driver's dials and the traditional blue Toyota hybrid brand logo. 

The C-HR’s Japanese production source is unlikely to change with the update, although the hybrid C-HR is made in Thailand as well. 

The C-HR is part of the Japanese company’s recent hybrid model offensive, which planned for the launch of five new petrol-electric hybrid models before mid-2020 - the RAV4 is already on sale and Corolla sedan will be launched later in 2019 with possibly the Kluger and Yaris next to receive part-electric drivetrains.

The C-HR hybrid uses dials like the Corolla hybrid.

Toyota recently celebrated the sale of its 100,000th hybrid in Australia. Almost half (45.4 per cent) of new Camry registrations are hybrids, with the Corolla catching up (31.4 per cent) and Toyota predicting the same for the just-released RAV4. 

Should all cars offer a hybrid powertrain option? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.