Will Toyota PH bring Ativ HEV GR Sport?

Here's a closer look at the Toyota Ativ HEV GR Sport

If there's one version of the all-new Toyota Ativ we wish the automaker would bring here, it's the HEV GR Sport. Already available in other ASEAN markets like Thailand and Malaysia, the Ativ HEV GR Sport (also called the Vios HEV GR Sport) combines Gazoo Racing's sporty aesthetics with the efficiency & performance of an electrified powertrain.

Starting with the exterior, the GR Sport version of the Ativ gets exclusive upgrades like a honeycomb grille, a sporty GR Sport aerokit with aerodynamic air vents at the front, a rear diffuser on the rear bumper, and a ducktail spoiler.

Further complementing the more aggressive exterior of the Ativ HEV are GR Sport emblems on the trunk lid & front grille, LED headlights with auto high beam (part of Toyota Safety Sense), 17-inch GR Sport alloy wheels, and an optional black roof finish.

While the upgrades may only look cosmetic, Toyota was also busy giving the Ativ HEV GR Sport some chassis upgrades. In fact, the automaker claims the GR Sport version makes use of high-strength lightweight body panels and increased chassis reinforcement. In addition, Toyota even installed a GR Sport-tuned suspension, which consists of specially-tuned coils and shocks that allow for better cornering.

Under the hood, the Ativ HEV GR Sport continues to be powered by an electrified powertrain. It features the 1.5L 2NR-VEX four-cylinder engine that benefits from Dual VVT-i and makes 91 PS with 121 Nm of torque. It is then assisted by an electric motor that's powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, resulting in a combined system output of 111 PS. Power is then sent to an E-CVT that drives the front wheels and comes with four drive modes: Power, Eco, Normal, and EV.

Can we expect Toyota Motor Philippines to bring the Ativ HEV GR Sport here in the country? Hopefully, we'll get our answer later this year.

For now, you can check out our first impressions of the Toyota Ativ HEV and see for yourself if it's the electrified sedan for you.