The C-HR comes in four trims: LE, XLE, Limited, and Nightshade. All four are powered by a compact 2.0L 4-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission sending power to the front wheels. In normal operation, the transmission works to optimize fuel economy, but when put it into sport mode, it imitates a 7-speed sequential transmission. Toyota estimates the C-HR achieves over 30 mpg on the highway and around 27 in the city.

One of the major selling points of the C-HR comes from the list of standard features. LE versions come standard with LED daytime running lights, 17-inch wheels, powered rearview mirrors with integrated turn signals, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen display for the sound system which includes an integrated backup camera, a 4.2-inch screen in the instrument cluster, an electronically dimming rearview mirror, a leather-trimmed shift knob, power windows and keyless entry.

Standard safety features include Toyota's Safety Sense P system, which includes a lane departure warning system, a pre-collision system, a pedestrian detection system, automatic high beams and radar-controlled cruise control. Ten airbags are also standard.

The Limited trim costs a little more than the XLE, but includes high-performance LED fog lamps, LED projector-beam front headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting, side mirrors that include blind spot warning indicators and puddle lights and leather-trimmed heated front seats with 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support.