Toyota C-HR I (AX10) (2016 – 2023)

Reliability score : 9.2/10

The first-generation Toyota C-HR (Coupé High-Rider) (AX10) marked a major stylistic departure for the Japanese manufacturer. Based on the excellent TNGA-C platform (shared with the Corolla and Prius 4), it offers dynamic road handling and a high level of comfort. Primarily designed for Europe, where it was predominantly sold in its hybrid version, it received a facelift in late 2019 (Model Year 2020), bringing a new 2.0L 184 hp hybrid engine, aesthetic tweaks (standard LED headlights), and a multimedia system finally compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is an extremely reliable model, although its polarizing design sacrifices rear passenger space and visibility.

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The first-generation Toyota C-HR is a highly recommended purchase on the used car market. If you accept its family compromises (dark rear seats, small trunk), it will reward you with bulletproof reliability and negligible running costs. Prioritize hybrid versions. The 1.8H is perfect for city and daily commutes. If your budget allows, aim for a facelifted model (post-2020) with the 2.0H 184 hp engine: it corrects the multimedia flaws of the first phase while offering a transformed driving experience, without sacrificing reliability.

Common issues

Défaillance prématurée de la batterie 12V auxiliaire Low
🔧 40 000 – 80 000 km
💶 150 – 300 €
Vérifier la tension régulièrement, la remplacer préventivement après 4-5 ans.
Corrosion prématurée de la ligne d'échappement Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 300 – 800 €
Inspecter visuellement l'échappement lors des entretiens réguliers, surtout en zones humides.
Grippage des étriers de frein arrière / usure inégale Medium
🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km
💶 200 – 500 € par essieu
Faire vérifier et nettoyer les freins arrière régulièrement, surtout en conduite urbaine.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £80 – 140
Timing chain £650 – 1 200 (rarely needed)
Complete brakes £280 – 550
Estimated annual budget £500 – 950

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.