Toyota C-HR vs Volvo C40
What's the difference?

Toyota C-HR

$34,990 - $54,990

2024 price

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Volvo C40

$34,990 - $49,990

2023 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2024 Toyota C-HR

2023 Volvo C40

By Chris Thompson

By Tom White

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.8L

Electric motor type

—

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Vehicle type

—

Fuel Efficiency

4.0L/100km (combined)

Electric range

—

Energy consumption

—

Battery capacity

—

Seating

Likes

Bold styling
Interior layout
Efficiency

Great charging and range
Two well specified variants
Impressive driving performance

Dislikes

Visual bark over dynamic bite
Expensive
Rear space

Single motor not as good value
Seats could be more comfortable
Rear seat space compromised

2024 Toyota C-HR Summary

According to the chief engineer for the Toyota C-HR, a second generation was never guaranteed for this uncharacteristically (for Toyota) design-led small SUV.

After the Corolla Cross came into existence, the top brass didn’t think the brand needed two similarly sized models in the line-up. So, why is it here, and is it any good?

The first question is easy to answer - the team drew the new C-HR up as a European model, built in hybrid-only and with enough key differences from the Corolla Cross to avoid the models competing.

The second question? Let’s find out.

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2023 Volvo C40 Summary

Throughout its history Volvo has been known for a lot of things. Being a safety leader, dorky but endearing station wagons, ‘bloody Volvo drivers’, and more recently, a trailblazer in minimalist premium design.

The C40 is the first step in a next chapter for Volvo, with the brand wanting to be known next for its leadership in the electric space. For the first time for Volvo, it’s a fully electric offering

But in a world of Teslas, Polestars, and Mercedes Benz EQs, where does the C40 sit, and is it worth considering in an increasingly congested premium small SUV space?

We went to its Australian launch to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2024 Toyota C-HR 2023 Volvo C40

Verdict

There’s not much in terms of practicalities that are going to convince you the C-HR is a better option than Toyota’s other small SUV, the Corolla Cross.

Even other ‘stylish’ small SUVs like the Mazda CX-30, fuel savers like the electric MG ZS EV, or performance small SUVs like the Hyundai Kona N are more affordable than the GR Sport version of the C-HR.

In the case of this car, unlike most of its Toyota stablemates, buyers will likely be making a decision from the heart based on exterior styling and its interior rather than value or practicality.

And who would anyone be to tell you not to buy a car you like for its styling?

Verdict

The C40 becomes a compelling option in the electrified small SUV space, offering a premium look and feel, great range and tech inclusions at the price, as well as awesome on-road dynamics.

Its main downsides are the rear seat, which is compromised by its platform and design-led roofline, and the overwhelming power and added traction of the dual-motor makes the single motor less attractive on the value front.

Still, regardless of variant chosen, the C40 looks to offer a stand-out balance of price, range, and performance, against its traditional rivals and newcomers alike.

Toyota C-HR vs Volvo C40 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Toyota C-HR vs Volvo C40
What's the difference?