The Toyota C-HR BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) has been officially confirmed for arrival in Australia, with an expected launch date set for the middle of 2027. This new electric iteration of the popular compact SUV joins Toyota’s expanding lineup of zero-emission vehicles, furthering their multi-pathway electrification strategy in Australia. Positioned below the larger bZ4X and bZ4X Touring electric SUVs, the C-HR BEV aims to offer a smaller, more affordable fully electric option for urban and suburban buyers eager to embrace electric mobility.
Launch Timeline and Market Positioning
Toyota Australia has announced that order books for the C-HR BEV will open early in 2026, leading to showroom deliveries around mid-2027. This timeline positions the C-HR as a significant addition to Toyota’s electric vehicle portfolio, becoming the brand’s second pure electric SUV in Australia after the bZ4X line. Pricing details remain under wraps but are anticipated to undercut the bZ4X’s starting price of roughly $66,000 AUD before on-road costs, making the C-HR BEV Toyota’s most accessible electric SUV in the local market.
Powertrain and Battery Specifications
The Australian-market Toyota C-HR BEV will be powered by a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor producing 165 kW (around 221 horsepower) and 269 Nm of torque. This powertrain is paired with a substantial 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering an estimated driving range exceeding 500 kilometers under optimal conditions. This battery size is a step up from the smaller 57.7 kWh variant offered in some overseas markets. Charging capabilities include AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 150 kW, enabling a rapid recharge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes, thanks to advanced battery preconditioning technology.
Design and Interior Space
Though based on Toyota’s e-TNGA (Electric Toyota New Global Architecture) platform shared with the bZ4X and Lexus RZ, the C-HR BEV features a slightly larger body compared to its hybrid sibling. With a length of approximately 4520 mm, it offers a roomy interior space optimized for urban lifestyles. Cargo volume reaches 416 liters, while rear legroom improvements make the cabin more comfortable for passengers. The design language reflects Toyota’s contemporary styling cues, tailored for a younger audience looking for a blend of technology, practicality, and eco-conscious driving.
Technology and Features
The 2027 Toyota C-HR BEV comes loaded with modern technology to enhance convenience and connectivity. Inside, it features a 14-inch central touchscreen infotainment system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital cockpit includes a 7-inch instrument cluster complemented by an optional head-up display, delivering critical driving information clearly within the driver’s line of sight. Additionally, dual wireless charging pads, panoramic glass roof options, and Toyota Connected Services are available, ensuring a tech-savvy and premium in-car experience.
Rural and Urban Adaptability
Despite its compact SUV form, the C-HR BEV is designed with versatile driving conditions in mind. The suspension and electric power steering have been specifically tuned to balance ride comfort and responsiveness in an electric vehicle context. Drivers can also adjust regenerative braking via steering wheel paddles, allowing a customized driving feel that helps maximize battery efficiency, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. Its front-wheel-drive layout suits urban environments, while the potential for all-wheel-drive variants in other markets suggests future adaptability.
Pricing and Competitive Landscape
While official Australian pricing is pending, the C-HR BEV is expected to slot comfortably below the bZ4X’s approximate $66,000 AUD base price, potentially landing between $57,000 and $65,000 AUD plus on-road costs. This pricing would place it competitively among smaller electric SUVs, appealing to buyers seeking an affordable entry into full electrification without compromising style and functionality.
Specification
Toyota C-HR BEV (Australia)
Toyota bZ4X
Lexus RZ
Battery Capacity (kWh)
74.7
71.4
71.4
Electric Motor Power (kW)
165
150
230
Torque (Nm)
269
~265
360
Estimated Range (km)
500+
Approx. 450
Approx. 450
AC Charging (kW)
22
11
22
DC Fast Charging (kW)
150
150
150
Length (mm)
4520
4690
4870
Cargo Volume (L)
416
452
451
Launch in Australia
Mid-2027
Launched 2024
Expected soon
Conclusion: A Strategic Step Toward Electrification
The introduction of the Toyota C-HR BEV in Australia marks an important step in Toyota’s expansion of its battery-electric vehicle offerings. By positioning this model as a slightly smaller, more affordable electric SUV, Toyota targets urban buyers eager to transition from traditional gasoline or hybrid vehicles to zero-emission driving. With solid performance figures, competitive range, and modern technology, the 2027 C-HR BEV promises to be a compelling option for those looking to embrace electric mobility while benefiting from Toyota’s legendary reputation for reliability.
As the Australian market continues to shift toward sustainability and emission reduction, the C-HR BEV will play a vital role in Toyota’s strategy to meet increasingly stringent environmental standards and consumer expectations, offering a practical yet exciting electric option by mid-2027.
