3 reasons why the Toyota Corolla Altis is still relevant

With fewer new sedans coming out of the market, it might seem that the only ones buying them are fleet operators. But, models like the Toyota Corolla Altis, are still relevant. 

Here are three reasons why car buyers should consider getting one. 

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It packs a punch 

Car buyers would assume that the sedan gets fitted with a 1.0-liter—maybe a 1.2-liter—gasoline engine, as it is common for larger vehicles such as multi-purpose vehicles and small utility models to sport a 1.5-liter powertrain. 

However, under the hood of the Toyota Corolla Altis (specifically the GR-S HEV variant) is a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with hybrid technology mated to a continuously variable transmission. This setup makes 120 horsepower and 142 Newton-meters of torque. 

It feels punchy when driven on city roads and the ability to accelerate at a decent speed inspires confidence when cruising through the expressway. 

For halts and deceleration, it relies on entilated disc brakes at the front and solid brakes at the rear. Handling is made easier thanks to MacPhersons at the front and independent suspensions at the rear. 

The Toyota Corolla Altis is by no means a sports car, but it feels like one in both long straightaways and on corners. Sure, it lacks pedal shifters and a short-throw shifter, but it is agile and does not lug like an econo-car. 

No mods needed  

Let’s be honest, the first thing that comes to mind after one gets a brand-spanking-new vehicle are mods—especially those easy-to-install cosmetic ones as they do make your ride truly yours. 

Whether these are simple fixes like exterior garnishes and mudguards, or ones that require the help of a professional like a grille swap, modifications give your car a unique identity and separate it from the sea of sedans that ply the metro. 

Good thing the Toyota Corolla Altis GR-S HEV come fitted with exterior and interior appointments that elevate its aesthetics.  

At the fore is a black honeycomb grille with the GR-S badge, while the flanks get side sill garnishes and a set of GR-S-design 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/45 highway tires. Meanwhile, the rear gets smoked taillamps, GR-S badging on the trunk, and a diffuser-like feature at the bumper. 

Inside, it gets bucket-type seats with GR-S badging on the headrest and red seatbelts, a GR-S steering wheel, GR-S floor mats, and a black headliner. 

All the abovementioned features will leave owners not wanting for any more aesthetic mods, especially the cringey ones available at online selling platforms. 

Actually decent safety 

Not all sedans get a full suite of safety features. However, the Toyota Corolla Altis offer drivers not only a car they won’t be ashamed to get seen driving, but also the peace of mind as soon as they get rolling. 

Here is a quick look at its featured safety technologies: 

• Pre-collision system
• Automatic high beam
• Lane tracing assist
• Lane departure alert
• Dynamic radar cruise control
• Anti-lock braking
• Vehicle stability
• Hill-start assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear camera
• Parking sensors 

Pricing, variants 

The Toyota Corolla Altis is currently sold in four variants with a starting price of P1.213 million. 

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