Eight years after its bold debut, the Toyota C-HR returns in 2026 with a completely new identity. Once an entry-level SUV under Toyota’s youthful Scion brand, the C-HR has now been reborn as a fully electric coupe-inspired SUV. With striking design, powerful dual-motor performance, and modern technology, the 2026 Toyota C-HR XSE represents a dramatic leap forward for the nameplate.
Power and Performance
The new C-HR XSE is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA electric platform and comes standard with dual motors for electronic all-wheel drive. Its 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers up to 290 miles of range, while producing 338 horsepower—more than double the output of the previous generation. This translates to a thrilling 0–60 mph time of around five seconds, making the C-HR XSE one of Toyota’s most performance-oriented electric crossovers.
Charging is equally modernized. The C-HR features a Tesla-compatible NACS plug, granting access to Superchargers, and an 11 kW onboard charger for faster Level 2 home charging. DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent takes about 30 minutes under ideal conditions, ensuring convenience on longer trips.
Bold Exterior Design
True to its “Coupe High Rider” roots, the 2026 C-HR XSE embraces a sportback silhouette with coupe-like lines. The exterior showcases Toyota’s latest hammerhead LED headlights, a closed-off grille, and aggressive rear styling with a full-width LED light bar.
Key highlights include:
- Distinctive two-tone paint options, such as the vibrant “Tandoori” orange metallic.
- 20-inch alloy wheels paired with all-season tires for a sporty stance.
- A panoramic glass roof with retractable shade.
- Hidden rear door handles integrated into the D-pillar, enhancing the coupe illusion.
At the rear, bold badging and diffuser elements emphasize its electric identity, while a power liftgate adds everyday practicality. Cargo space measures 25.6 cubic feet with seats up, expandable to an estimated 45–50 cubic feet with seats folded.
Premium Interior and Technology
Inside, the C-HR XSE blends sporty flair with advanced technology. The cabin features upgraded synthetic leather and suede seating with contrast stitching, offering 10-way driver and 8-way passenger adjustability plus memory settings. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel come standard, though cooled seats are not available.
Technology highlights include:
- A 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Dual-zone climate controls with rotary dials for intuitive operation.
- Dual wireless charging pads and multiple USB-C ports.
- A compact digital driver display and paddle shifters for regenerative braking control.
- Ambient lighting options exclusive to the XSE trim.
While the cabin feels premium, Toyota has omitted a glove box, opting instead for radiant knee heaters. Rear passengers benefit from improved legroom compared to the previous generation, rear air vents, and a fold-down armrest with cup holders.
Pricing and Availability
The previous C-HR was one of Toyota’s most affordable models, priced under $25,000. The 2026 C-HR XSE, however, is a radically different vehicle. With its advanced electric platform, premium features, and performance capabilities, pricing is expected to start around $40,000 for the SE trim, with the fully loaded XSE likely closer to $50,000.
Toyota plans to release the new C-HR in early 2026, marking its official return to dealerships after a four-year absence from the North American lineup.
Conclusion
The 2026 Toyota C-HR XSE is a bold reinvention of a once entry-level SUV. Now fully electric, it delivers thrilling performance, coupe-inspired design, and modern technology that elevate it far beyond its predecessor. With up to 290 miles of range, 338 horsepower, and a striking new look, the C-HR XSE proves that Toyota is serious about electrification—and about making the C-HR a standout in its segment once again.
This isn’t just a comeback—it’s a reinvention. The 2026 C-HR XSE electrifies the coupe SUV formula for a new era.