Chinese cars are hitting the UK auto market hard and fast - but we mustn't forget the Japanese, who did the same trick with tremendous success.
Toyota, for example, began selling its cars here in the 1960s, gathering pace in the 70s and 80s - but it was in the 1990s that the automaker really took off in this country, writes motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay.
That decade, marked by Supergrass, Oasis, and Ocean Colour Scene, saw the introduction of the RAV4, Avensis, Yaris - and Prius, which entered stage left as the 21st century began.
The 2000s saw Toyota become the most popular car marque in Britain. Since the opening of its UK car plant at Burnaston in Derbyshire in 1992, Toyota's UK car production has now reached over five million units. What's more, it's the first Toyota facility outside Japan to produce hybrid vehicles.
However, with the shift towards battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in the UK, Toyota has announced that it will start building them here in the future as well.
In the meantime, models like the all-new, all-electric C-HR+ are piquing interest. Indeed, we had a first look at it during a media preview in the UK. We weren't allowed to drive the car, but we could poke and prod the model and sit in it to get the measure of it.
With its sleek coupe design, this new Toyota offers spaciousness, practicality, and convenience - traits that build on the legacy of the standard C-HR, which has sold over a million units across Europe in its two generations.
Expected to hit the roads in the UK later this year into 2026, Toyota says the C-HR+ will offer two different battery capacities and come with front-wheel and all-wheel drive, highlighting its SUV capabilities.
The company believes the launch will further strengthen Toyota's multifaceted approach to vehicle electrification, complementing its hybrids, plug-ins, and hydrogen fuel cell electric cars, all of which are aimed at reducing emissions and working towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.
Even though it's inspired by the C-HR we know the love, the C-HR+ is a model in its own right. It is designed around Toyota's e-TNGA platform for battery electric vehicles, featuring a distinct body and interior.
From a front three-quarter view, the Toyota's modern styling unmistakably identifies it as a contemporary BEV. At the same time, its wide stance suggests the dynamic driving experience associated with the C-HR. We say 'suggests' as, again, we'll mention we weren't permitted to take it on the road.
What we did discover, however, is that the design elements of the front bumper, grille, and headlights are exclusive to the C-HR+. Furthermore, its coupe-crossover silhouette combines distinctive character with aerodynamic efficiency. The rear is notable too, with LED taillights, an angled rear windscreen, and a cool spoiler.
Remarkably, the coupe-style roofline is crafted without sacrificing headroom for rear passengers. We got in the back - and you can sit a six-footer in there, no problem. The car also has an inviting atmosphere that's enhanced by ambient lighting, adding a touch of elegance. The quality of the cabin feels surprisingly premium indeed.
We reckon the generous space alongside good visibility establishes the C-HR+ as a compelling choice for comfort and practicality - especially as it comes with 416 litres of cargo capacity. That size of boot will hold a week's worth of shopping, some large suitcases or a folden buggy, along with some smaller bags. So, it's an ideal car for a family.
Peering even closer into the cabin, you can see the Toyota has features for all passengers. The tech features dual wireless smartphone chargers and USB ports in the rear for connectivity. The vehicle also features rear air conditioning controls and a panoramic sunroof.
Under its skin, the C-HR+ offers two battery options: a 57.7 kWh one for the front-wheel drive model and a 77kWh one available for front-wheel drive and all-wheel (AWD) drive editions.
With a driving range of up to 373 miles, the C-HR+ promises a smooth and quiet driving experience, being the most potent model in Toyota's European lineup outside of the GR series. The all-wheel drive variant delivers 338bhp, enabling a 0-62 mph time of 5.2 seconds, while the front-wheel drive model with the 57.7kWh battery produces 165bhp.
Toyota tells us that the AWD system, unsurprisingly, enhances grip and traction, supporting a safe and enjoyable drive. Additionally, the C-HR+ features optimised aerodynamics for improved efficiency and a battery pre-conditioning option to boost charging performance. An 11kW onboard charger comes factory-fitted, with higher trims offering a 22kW unit and fast DC charging capabilities of up to 150kW.
The C-HR+ is undoubtedly set to impress folks with its performance, making it an electric car to watch in this segment. Toyota explained to us at the static reveal that the model features enhancements in suspension components such as optimised spring and damper settings, along with strengthened anti-roll bars. Additionally, the electric power steering has been recalibrated to boost responsiveness.
The Japanese company also claims that improvements in stability are evident, thanks to greater body rigidity and a lowered centre of gravity compared with the standard C-HR. This apparently future enhances handling agility, resulting in a more dynamic driving experience. Well, we'll have to reserve judgment until we drive the car.
Of course, if you are considering buying this car after reading our preview, you'll be interested in the safety aspect - especially if you have a family. You'll therefore be pleased to know that all models include Toyota Safety Sense, which detects hazards and activates braking and steering to prevent accidents. Standard features include a Blind Spot Monitor, Adaptive High-beam System, and Parking Support Brake. Higher trims offer Park Assist and a Panoramic View Monitor.
As for navigation and other driving aids, the C-HR+ houses a 14-inch multimedia display with an EV routing function that locates nearby charging stations based on battery status. The MyToyota app also allows you to monitor charging status, schedules, and driving metrics easily.
Finally, if this piece has really whetted your appetite for the new all-electric C-HR+, then the Battery Care Programme will get you even more ready to pull the trigger on it. The warranty offers coverage for 10 years or 650,000 miles, provided you participate in an annual battery health check.
Additionally, you can feel confident knowing that Toyota guarantees the battery will retain seven-tenths of its capacity over a period of up to a decade. The original EV Manufacturing Warranty protects you for the first eight year or until it reaches 100,000 miles.
