Last year Toyota launched a very unusual compact SUV the CH-R – a radically styled SUV for Toyota – CH-R standing for compact High-Rider – a real cross-over vehicle – a cross between a hatch, coupe and SUV – In my preview in March I said I thought it was an enormously clever piece of design although for some it’s a little too radical. There’s three CH-R models – all 1.2-litre turbo four cylinder – the entry manual front driver from $26,990, $28,990 in automatic while the auto-only all-wheel- drive is $30,990. Higher grade automatic Koba variants add $4,300 to both front and all-wheel- drive models and add some nice luxury touches to an already well equipped package, like leather trim, heated fronts seats 1-inch larger alloy wheels at 18-inches, keyless entry and start, LED Headlights and tail lights, rear privacy glass and ambient lighting. Frankly, the Koba variants are the pick, more expensive yes but just so good. My preference would be the two-wheel- drive Toyota CH-R Koba variant – lighter in front-wheel- drive and so well spec’d – I had a yellow one and its was a stand-out SUV in every respect – the styling stunning and better in the lighter colours. High points – a very refined engine and CVT automatic, fabulous ride and very high equipment levels. Low points – high rear styling impedes rear vision and makes the rear seat area dark and uninviting for kids. Toyota have introduced a capped price service deal for five year at $195 each year or every 15,000k. I’m David Berthon

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