Toyota's Raize GR Sport: A Stylish Upgrade, But Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
The Toyota Raize GR Sport is a budget-friendly subcompact SUV that has received a stylish makeover, but it may not be the performance powerhouse you'd expect.
A Stylish Upgrade
The Raize GR Sport features a new bodykit with a revised front bumper, a pronounced chin, and an integrated skid plate, giving it a sharper look. It sits on 17-inch black-finished wheels with discreet decals on the C-pillar. The rear features a GR Sport badge and a bumper extension with a small diffuser. Optional add-ons include carbon-look mirror caps, side visors, protective door handle covers, and side moldings.
The interior is a stylish black upholstery with contrast stitching, paired with a matching black headliner. It comes equipped with a 9-inch infotainment screen, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a full ADAS suite.
The Power Button Mystery
The GR-branded steering wheel includes paddle shifters and a 'power' mode button, but don't expect a performance boost. The Raize GR Sport still uses the same 97 hp turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine, sent to the front wheels via a CVT.
No Performance Boost
Despite the visual enhancements, the Raize GR Sport lacks a performance upgrade. The engine's power output remains unchanged, and the CVT transmission likely limits the impact of the 'power' button. Toyota's claims of 'high acceleration' seem more like wishful thinking.
No Suspension Tricks
Unlike other GR Sport models, the Raize keeps its standard suspension setup. There are no changes to the chassis, brakes, or handling, making it a well-equipped range-topper with a sportier aesthetic.
Price and Comparison
In Indonesia, the Raize GR Sport is priced from Rp292,100,000 to Rp317,100,000, making it the most expensive variant. Interestingly, it's more expensive than the Daihatsu Rocky with the same engine and transmission. This price difference might be a point of contention for buyers.
Is It Worth It?
The Raize GR Sport offers a stylish upgrade, but its performance remains unchanged. The price hike might not justify the lack of a performance boost. Buyers might want to consider the regular Raize or explore other options in the subcompact SUV market.
