Mini Camry: Toyota reveals refreshed Corolla Altis GR Sport

Three years ago, Toyota Thailand introduced the Corolla Altis GR Sport. It was one of the first models from the automaker to receive the GR Sport treatment. Like all other GR Sport models today, it features exterior and interior upgrades to match the new Gazoo Racing badge.

Fast forward to the present, and Toyota Thailand has decided it was time to update the look of the Corolla Altis GR Sport for the 2022 model year. Compared to the outgoing model, this one looks a lot more aggressive. The front end no longer looks like a slightly modified version of the Altis’s bumper. Instead, it features a wider center intake with a more aggressive grille and sharper corner vents.

Because of the new bumper, the Corolla Altis GR Sport now resembles the facelifted Camry. Apart from the front fascia redesign, there are new side skirts, and a rear bumper spoiler was fitted. Rounding up the exterior changes are new 17-inch wheels, black side mirror covers, and GR Sport emblems all around.

Inside, the GR Sport seats come standard with the GR logo. There are also red accents all around the cabin for a sportier vibe. Exclusive to the GR Sport are paddle shifters and an engine start/stop button with the GR logo. Apart from the aesthetic upgrades, Toyota says the suspension has been tuned for better handling. These include fitting new shock absorbers, springs, and a rear stabilizer bar.

In Thailand, the Corolla Altis GR Sport comes with two engine options. The first is the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FBE gasoline engine that produces a maximum of 140 PS paired with a 7-speed CVT. The other is the 1.8-liter hybrid mill found in the Corolla Altis Hybrid and Corolla Cross Hybrid.

There’s no word yet if Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) plans to offer the Corolla Altis GR Sport in the country. Since TMP sources the Corolla Altis from Thailand, it is very possible. The only question now is will they actually bring them here.