Continuing pretty much unchanged since 2019, the Toyota Corolla Altis sedan (known simply as the Corolla in Malaysia) has just been given an update that goes beyond the usual model year changes. That’s because the Hybrid model, now called the HEV, has received a rather significant change to its mechanicals.
Specifically, the nickel-metal hydride battery that Toyota had used since the original Prius has been replaced by a lithium-ion pack. Capacity has been increased slightly from 3.6 Ah to 4 Ah, resulting in a slight improvement in fuel efficiency to 23.8 km per litre, up from 23.3 km per litre.
Beyond that, the hybrid powertrain is pretty much unchanged, consisting of a 98 PS/142 Nm 2ZR-FXE 1.8 litre Atkinson-cycle Dual VVT-i four-cylinder engine, a 72 PS/163 Nm electric motor and an eCVT that altogether produce a total system output of 122 PS.
To go with the new battery, the GR Sport model – now only available in HEV form – has been given a redesign with a full-width lower grille with intersecting rectangular trims, very obviously inspired by the facelifted GR Yaris. You also now get clear LED taillights and a black finish for the roof, rear boot lid spoiler and 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.
Inside, there are new red seat belts, GR-badged steering wheel, Smoked Silver door pull trim and added lumbar adjustment for the eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The faux leather and suede upholstery with red stitching and GR-embossed headrests is still unique to the GR Sport. Elsewhere, retuned electric power steering joins the GR-specific springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.
Both HEV variants, the GR Sport and HEV Premium, gain a new HEV badge that replaces Toyota’s long-serving “Hybrid” emblem, replete with the company’s Beyond Zero circular blue logo. Save for the GR Sport, all models also receive a new Cement Grey paint option. Pricing has gone up slightly, with the HEV Premium now retailing at 1,009,000 baht (RM130,200) and the HEV GR Sport at 1,129,000 baht (RM145,700).
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“a total system output of 122 PS.” – 122ps only ??? no wonder japanese and european cars are not selling well anymore, they are still living the delusion that they are the kind of the hill and can exploit the customers as much as they like because they are “branded”, toyota, honda, mazda, mercedes and even peugeot etc etc …
Exactly! you’ll need more power to drive past speed limit, break sound barrier and might take a life or two in the making
its not about top speed, with such snail accelerated even kapchai will overtake you from the traffic light or toll booth
Madani gov should considering HEV tax incentive.
this car looks so dull and boring. they have no idea how to design anymore. to compare with civic, no wonder sales very little. i give you clue, see and get inspiration from 2018 audi A5. design proper rear lamp. sure laku
After seeing many chinese car interior, the japanese interiors look decade old