Toyota Corolla Altis gets the GR Sport treatment in Thailand

KUALA LUMPUR: After introducing the Fortuner GR Sport and Hilux GR Sport in Thailand in August last year, Toyota now gave the GR Sport treatment to the Corolla Altis. However, this is not the first time that the Japanese automaker unveiled the Corolla Altis GR Sport as it was first rolled out three years ago. The new version gets better aesthetics, a hybrid powertrain option, and an uprated suspension system. 

Starting with the exterior changes, the 2022 Corolla Altis GR Sport gains a new sportier front fascia featuring a wider lower air intake, a redesigned front bumper, and slimmer faux corner air inlets. We can also notice gloss black strips above the front grille, slightly redesigned side skirts, and a unique bumper at the rear. 

Inside the cabin, the look-faster variant of the Corolla Altis is decked up with red interior trims complemented by the red stitching on seats. The blue ambient LED lighting is also added to the centre console and doors of the car. We can also notice GR badging on seat headrests and the engine start button. 

Included in the features are a new head-up display, a seven-inch digital instrument display, paddle shifters, and advanced driver-assistance systems like autonomous emergency braking, lane centring assist, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beam, and adaptive cruise control with stop and go. 

On the mechanical front, there are two engines on offer. First, is the tried and tested 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated Dual VVT-i four-cyl mill that delivers a maximum power output of 140 PS and a peak torque of 177 Nm. 

Another option is the new hybrid powertrain that combines an Atkinson-cycle version of the gasoline engine with an electric motor, which combinedly churns out 122 PS. The hybrid setup is paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery pack.

As for the transmission, both engines are mated to a CVT sending power to the front wheels.

Toyota also upgraded the suspension system of the car with revised springs, dampers, and rear anti-roll bar. 

Pricing for the 1.8 GR Sport starts at 1,059,000 baht (RM 134,647), while the hybrid HEV GR Sport retails for 1,114,000 baht (RM 141,649).

Also read: All-new Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric: Everything you need to know