Why Toyota Ended C-HR Production in the US After 5 Years

The Toyota C-HR was a bit different from Toyota’s other cars. Most Toyota cars like the Camry or RAV4 have safe and simple designs. But the C-HR was unique and stylish, depending on who you asked. It seemed to be made for younger people who wanted a trendy and fresh car.

Originally, the C-HR was a concept car for Toyota’s brand called Scion. That’s why it has a hyphen in its name and looks very different from Toyota’s regular cars. “C-HR” stands for “Coupe High-Rider,” even though it has four doors. But in 2016, when Scion stopped making cars, Toyota decided to bring the C-HR into its lineup for the 2018 model year. This was a similar story for other Scion cars like the iM (which became the Corolla hatchback) and the FR-S (now called the 86).

However, the C-HR didn’t really fit in even with Toyota. It was like Toyota made the opposite of what people wanted. It looked like an SUV but didn’t have the features people usually want in an SUV. It didn’t have all-wheel drive, which is common for SUVs, and it never offered it during its production. It had slightly better fuel economy than the RAV4, with 29 miles per gallon on average, while the RAV4 got 25 miles per gallon with all-wheel drive. But compared to the smaller Camry, it fell short, as the Camry got 34 miles per gallon.

So, it wasn’t very fuel-efficient, lacked common features for a crossover, and wasn’t particularly fast. A test by Car and Driver found that it took a slow 11 seconds for a 2018 C-HR to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

Also, it wasn’t a great deal. The new RAV4, introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year, had more to offer. A 2019 C-HR started at $22,265, while the base model RAV4 started at $25,500. If you wanted all-wheel drive for the RAV4, it went up to $26,900. The RAV4 also had better fuel economy, with the 2019 AWD RAV4 getting 28 miles per gallon on average.

So, it wasn’t much cheaper than a car with more options, and the small fuel efficiency advantage it had over the RAV4 didn’t matter much in the end.

All these factors made the C-HR a tough sell for Toyota. In 2019, Toyota sold 48,930 C-HRs, which might sound okay, but the RAV4 sold a massive 448,071 units that same year. In 2020, the C-HR didn’t do any better, selling 42,936 units while the RAV4 sold 430,387. It’s impressive that Toyota sold ten times as many RAV4s.

In the end, the C-HR couldn’t compete with other cars Toyota had. It wasn’t fast, efficient, cheap, or popular. Any one of these reasons would be enough for Toyota to stop making the C-HR, but all four together made it clear it was time to say goodbye. In 2022, Toyota discontinued the C-HR.

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Cars

5 MOST POWERFUL DIESEL AUTO ENGINES EVER BUILT BY BMW

by George Mensah 2024-10-21

BMW has built a reputation for producing high-performance engines, from its iconic inline-four-cylinder engines, such as the 2.3-liter found in the E30 M3, to the elite V12s that powered a select few coveted models. Alongside these petrol engines, BMW has also created some of the most powerful and reliable diesel engines in the industry, including the famous M57, which had a production span of 13 years and came in multiple variants.

In this post, we take a closer look at the most powerful diesel auto engines BMW has developed, showcasing their robust engineering and high-performance output. If you’re on the hunt for a powerful, long-lasting engine for your BMW, these diesel engines are prime candidates.

The M51: BMW’s Early Diesel Engine

The M51 diesel engine, produced from 1991 to 2000, was a pioneering inline-six that may not have been the most powerful but was advanced for its time. It played a significant role in establishing BMW’s diesel engine lineup, powering a range of models including the 5 Series, 7 Series, and the Land Rover Range Rover 2.5 DSE during the 1990s.

This 2.5-liter engine utilized direct fuel injection, a technology that was still relatively new during the early 1990s. Some versions of the M51 were equipped with an intercooler, which increased power to 134 horsepower—close to the output of the 2007 Isuzu D-Max’s diesel engine, which had the same displacement.

The M57: A Milestone in Diesel Performance

The M57 engine replaced the M51 in the late 1990s, marking a significant leap forward in diesel technology. Known for its excellent performance and reliability, the M57 was used in various BMW cars and SUVs, starting with the 2009 BMW 335d. The M57 came in different sizes, ranging from 2.5 liters to 3.0 liters, producing between 148 and 282 horsepower and up to 428 pound-feet of torque in the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter version.

The 2009 BMW 335d, powered by the M57, became known for its impressive acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, and completing the quarter-mile in the low 14-second range. With aftermarket modifications like improved software, injectors, and turbochargers, M57-equipped cars can push more than 700 horsepower, all while retaining their durable stock components.

The M67: BMW’s V8 Diesel Powerhouse

The M67 series marked BMW’s entry into high-performance V8 diesel engines, produced from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. The engine came in several versions, with displacements ranging from 3.9 to 4.4 liters, and was used in the 7 Series. The most powerful M67 variant, the D44, generated 329 horsepower and a hefty 552 pound-feet of torque.

The 745d, equipped with the M67 engine, was capable of reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, despite weighing nearly 4,500 pounds. Its top speed was limited to 155 mph, while offering fuel efficiency of 18.4 mpg in the city and 34.6 mpg on the highway.

The M550d: BMW’s Groundbreaking Quad-Turbo Diesel

The M550d xDrive is a standout in BMW’s diesel lineup. Produced from 2017 to 2020, the G30 model of this sedan featured a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine with four turbochargers, delivering 400 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the M550d to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, placing it among the fastest diesel-powered vehicles ever made.

The four turbochargers weren’t just for show—they helped eliminate turbo lag, providing smooth and consistent power throughout the rev range. Two smaller turbos managed low-end power, while the larger pair took over at higher engine speeds, making this engine one of the most innovative and powerful six-cylinder diesels ever produced. Its fuel economy remained strong, exceeding 45 mpg on average.

The N74 V12: A Final Diesel Beast

BMW’s V12 diesel engines were as powerful as they were rare, with the N74 standing out as one of the last of its kind. This engine powered select 7 Series and Rolls-Royce models, including the 2022 M760i, which was the final BMW to feature a V12 engine before the shift toward electrification.

The N74 diesel engine packed advanced features like double VANOS variable valve timing, direct injection, and twin turbochargers. This powertrain produced a massive 601 horsepower, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive system. The M760i, powered by the N74, could reach 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds, a performance that rivaled many supercars.

Cars

5 Cars GM Should Bring Back

by George Mensah 2024-10-20

When creating lists of classic cars, some iconic models inevitably get left out. For example, the recently discontinued Chevy Camaro isn’t included here. That’s partly because it could make a comeback in the future and also because it has already had its time in the spotlight.

Instead, let’s take a deeper look at General Motors’ (GM) history and explore five cars that should make a return to production. GM has an extensive catalog of classic models from brands like Chevrolet and Buick, which are still active today. However, some discontinued brands like Pontiac and Saturn produced cars that may have been ahead of their time and deserve another shot.

Here are five cars GM should have never discontinued, listed alphabetically to avoid bias. These vehicles blend performance, practicality, and pure driving enjoyment.

Pontiac Aztek: A Car Ahead of Its Time?

The Pontiac Aztek is often remembered for its unusual design, but it also had a number of standout features. While not known for being particularly powerful or stylish, its unique qualities have left a lasting impression. Despite its polarizing looks, the Aztek could potentially find a fanbase today, similar to other bold designs like the Honda Ridgeline and Tesla Cybertruck.

The Aztek also gained fame through its appearance in the hit TV show Breaking Bad, where it was driven by Walter White. Produced from 2000 to 2005, the Aztek featured a 185-horsepower V6 engine, available all-wheel drive, and optional “lifestyle” packages. One of its standout options was a camping package that included a tent, air mattress, and air pump, designed to attach to the back of the vehicle. Given the growing popularity of travel vehicles and campers, this feature might resonate with modern drivers.

Chevy El Camino: The Return of the Car-Truck Hybrid?

The Chevy El Camino, a car-truck hybrid, first appeared in 1959 but was discontinued after a year. It made a comeback in 1964 and stayed in production until 1987, eventually becoming an icon, especially in its muscle car versions equipped with some of Chevrolet’s most powerful V8 engines.

Although rumors about a 2025 Chevrolet El Camino have circulated, there has been no official confirmation from GM or Chevrolet. However, artist and AI-generated images and videos have fueled speculation. If GM were to revive the El Camino, it could appeal to today’s market, where car-truck hybrids like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick have gained popularity.

Pontiac Fiero: Could It Make a Comeback?

The Pontiac Fiero, introduced in 1984, faced challenges from the start, with some early models catching fire due to mechanical issues. However, the car made an impression with its mid-engine, two-seater layout. Despite efforts to improve the model after the initial problems, the Fiero was discontinued in 1988 due to its tarnished reputation.

A modern-day version of the Fiero, equipped with the latest technology and materials, could be a strong contender in the performance EV market. However, it’s unlikely GM would risk introducing a model that could rival its flagship sports car, the Corvette, making a Fiero revival seem unlikely.

Buick Grand National: A Muscle Car Classic

The Buick Grand National first appeared in 1984 as a high-performance version of the Buick Regal. Its stealthy, blacked-out design made it stand out, and in 1987, Buick introduced a turbocharged V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than the Corvette at the time.

Although it’s unlikely that GM would bring back a full-size coupe like the original Grand National, a modern version with a nod to its muscle car heritage could appeal to performance enthusiasts. If GM were to revive the Grand National, it would need to balance classic styling with cutting-edge technology.

Saturn Sky: A Fun, Sporty Roadster

Saturn was introduced by GM in 1990 to compete with affordable, fuel-efficient imports, but it was discontinued during GM’s 2009 bankruptcy. One of its most memorable models was the Saturn Sky, a two-seat convertible roadster that was essentially a rebadged Pontiac Solstice. Both cars were powered by GM’s Ecotec engines and provided a fun, sporty driving experience.

The Saturn Sky debuted in 2007 with a 177-horsepower engine, while the performance-oriented Red Line version offered a turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower. While a Saturn brand revival is unlikely, the Sky remains a model beloved by enthusiasts for its blend of affordability and fun.

Conclusion

While GM is unlikely to bring back these five cars in the near future, they continue to have a place in automotive history. These models blended innovation, performance, and practicality, and they still capture the imaginations of car enthusiasts. For now, we can enjoy artist renderings and AI-generated concepts of what these classic models could look like today.

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