A convert on the road from Cavan to Cork in a new hybrid

Luxury made accessible is the first thought that comes to mind when describing the Toyota C-HR PHEV Sport + model. Upon first glance, the angular bodywork immediately catches attention however it’s only when you sit in and make yourself at home that its features really sell the car.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to test drive the plug-in hybrid Toyota for the weekend, courtesy of Erne Motor Works, Toyota Cavan. It was a weekend of firsts for myself and my husband; for myself it was the first time driving a Toyata, a hybrid vehicle of any brand and an automatic over any great distance. For himself, it was a first-time visit to Cork.

While he had the pleasure of discovering the range of features on the large touch-screen which acted as a navigation system, radio and phone feature via carplay, I had the joy of piloting this fully automatic, powerful and convenient car. All in all, I was delighted to take it and sorry to see it go on Monday morning. Cork also did not disappoint.

First and foremost let’s talk plug-in hybrid. I do feel like hybrid is a bit of a taboo subject for some, myself included until the past weekend. Questions and concerns I had included: Do I need a charging station? Will I be stranded if I run out of charge? How does the car switch from electric to petrol? A more long-term concern is: What if the battery needs to be replaced, will it cost a fortune?

In answer to the first one, no. You need a three-pin plug and a socket. Number two, as long as you have petrol in the tank, you will not be left stranded. The car seamlessly switched from electric to fuel after a distance of about 66km. Even if you don’t have the plug- in leads, which I did not, you can simply refuel as you would with any other car. The battery comes with a 15-year warranty, which fairly seals the faith manufacturers have in them.

Over a longer travelling distance, I have a tendency to slouch a bit in the seat with no back support. Usually, I am delighted to get out from behind the wheel on reaching my destination. This time I discovered a button on the top right of the driver's seat. Upon pressing, I found what felt like a back massager.

Two plates emerged and pushed my back into a straight position, providing support and much comfort throughout the journey. While I can only speak on behalf of myself, a gym regular who after four years still manages to hurt my back from time to time, I really do think this feature would be revolutionary for those with back issues. This coupled with heated seats felt like massage therapy for the entire journey.

Talking heat, the car was connected to my phone and could be heated from the house before stepping out the door at the touch of a button.

Imagine the dream of a pre-heated car and steering wheel, clear windscreen and mirror on incoming frosty mornings. It would certainly take the chill out of it. Down in the foot department, a foot rest on the left prohibited me from pressing the non-existent clutch, while my other foot pressed the accelerator or the brake. The car was built for comfort.

Speaking of accessibility, every button you need to access while driving was close to hand, even if the attached arm was sitting on the cosy block armrest. On the steering wheel, I could change the radio station, adjust the volume, answer calls and select cruise control and lane assist.

The latter is a feature that I was not familiar with prior to test driving and I have to say, for longer journeys, it is a life saver. Navigating Cork city in lanes of traffic entering a roundabout, I put it to the test and it held up, even when the chancer in front decided to cut in with no indication.

While I held the steering wheel, the car slowed, re-distanced itself and proceeded along the way. I will admit, I was nervous while first using the feature and while I’m not a technophobe, I still don’t know if I would trust it 100%. In saying that, it passed every test I put it to; however, I’d view it for what it is, an assist as opposed to a chauffeur. But don’t worry, if you decide to drop both hands off the wheel, it will let you know.

For those of us known for walking away and leaving the car unlocked or for the double or triple checkers, you can lock and unlock the car from your phone. It also locks automatically.

To conclude, on country lanes or in the middle of Cork city, this car was a truly easy drive and it was a pleasure. The only individuals who should fear the Toyota C-HR PHEV Sport + model are sales reps, because it really does speak for itself.

If you are thinking of buying one, I would recommend calling in to Erne Motor Works and taking it for a test drive. If you are anything like me, you won’t be disappointed.

CHECK OUT THE STATS

Cost: €45,000

Battery warranty: 15 years

Cost to charge fully: €3.80 (13.6 kilowatt from empty, €0.28 per kilowatt).

Driving distance on electric battery: 66km