The newly launched Corolla GR Sport is an appearance package for European Corolla, unlike the recently launched Yaris GR. It’s still powered by the same 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid and 1.6-litre petrol powertrains that are offered on the standard Corolla sedan.

The chrome trim on the Corolla is now gone, replaced with piano black trim as seen on the grille, ORVMs, B-pillars and side sills. Some more tasteful black elements like the C-shaped frame on the corners of the front bumper and black garnish above the number plate are added. It sits on standard 17-inch contrasting alloys which can be switched with 18-inch ones optionally. Overall, the grey and black look does set it apart and one can choose from seven more colours to go with that blacked-out roof.

Step inside and you see sporty seats with contrast stitching in white and red, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, GR logo on the scuff plates and optional ambient lighting. It would have been amazing if Toyota plonked a turbocharged rally engine in it, but this appearance package isn’t too bad either.