What Is the Worst Toyota SUV?
Toyota produces iconic SUV models like the Toyota RAV4. While many Toyota SUVs are great, not every nameplate can be successful. What is the worst Toyota SUV in the Japanese automaker’s lineup?
The Toyota C-HR is the worst SUV in Toyota’s current lineup
Toyota currently offers 10 different SUV models and will soon offer the bZ4X electric SUV as well. Many of the SUV options in the Japanese automaker’s lineup provide great value in terms of practicality, fuel economy, and affordability. The RAV4 has ascended to greatness because of the value it provides. Toyota SUVs are also known for their longevity. When it comes to the C-HR, the subcompact SUV has little in common with its family members.
Not every SUV nameplate can be as popular as the RAV4, but the C-HR quickly earned the skepticism of consumers. Could this small SUV ever hope to live up to its lineage? The design language of the C-HR is noticeably unlike most other Toyota SUVs (to its detriment).
Instead of providing ample cabin and cargo space, the C-HR feels cramped. Factor in its underwhelming driving dynamics, and you get a recipe for disaster. Honda’s HR-V subcompact SUV shares many of the C-HR’s issues. The Toyota C-HR isn’t horrible to own or drive, but there’s a clear divide between how consumers have received it versus other Toyota SUVs.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is getting a warmer welcome than the Toyota C-HR
The Toyota Corolla is a popular model because of its affordability and practicality. The automaker capitalized on the popularity of small SUVs and the Corolla by remixing the popular nameplate to make the Corolla Cross. The aptly-named subcompact SUV shares many traits with the Corolla but adds more cabin space and standard features.
Car and Driver gave the Toyota Corolla Cross an overall score of 7.5/10. The Toyota C-HR received a score of just 5.5/10. One of the main reasons that the subcompact SUV got such a low score is because of its pricing. The C-HR starts at $23,880. The Corolla Cross starts at just $22,195 and offers more cabin space.
Toyota is working around its worst SUV
Instead of discontinuing the current lineup’s least popular nameplate, the brand is simply offering more SUV options. The Corolla Cross and bZ4X will be its newest additions. The RAV4’s many trims and configurations are an example of the company’s ability to provide a wide variety of options for consumers.
The Toyota C-HR may be your least favorite SUV, but who knows? Some could find the small SUV model to be a charming sedan alternative. Is it time for the C-HR to go, or does the phrase “the more, the merrier” ring true for the producer of the most popular SUV model?
RELATED: 71% of People Wouldn’t Buy the 2022 Toyota C-HR Again, Says Consumer Reports
