Toyota Gazoo Racing has done a decent job with the sportier-looking and sharper-handling GR Sport trims in Toyota’s range. The latest model to get the GR Sport treatment is the Toyota Aqua supermini, as part of a series of model year updates for 2023 including additional colors and extra equipment. Unlike most GR Sport trims, the Toyota Aqua GR Sport looks quite different from the standard Aqua thanks to an extensively redesigned bodykit.

The front end looks meaner thanks to the new bumper intake with the honeycomb pattern and the GR emblem, flanked by sharper side inlets. There is also a small grille connecting the headlights with the Toyota emblem, something that is not present in other Aqua trims. A new set of 17-inch alloy wheels, red GR Sport branded brake calipers, side sill extensions and a redesigned rear bumper complete the exterior mods.

 

Inside, we find a pair of bucket seats upholstered in synthetic leather, GR Sport emblems on the headrests and on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and gunmetal accents all around the cabin. The Toyota Aqua GR Sport comes fitted with the stock self-charging hybrid system comprising a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine, an electric motor, and a bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery. What is different is the chassis setup with version-specific suspension tuning, extra bracing for increased rigidity, and modified steering. These  changes improve the handling and driving dynamics of the hybrid supermini, making it the most fun to drive Aqua despite not having extra power.

The second-gen Toyota Aqua / Prius C was unveiled in July 2021, so changes for the 2023 MY are quite subtle. New color options for the exterior include the pop orange crystal shine and dark gray (only for the GR Sport), alongside six additional bi-tone shades increasing the total number to 17. Inside, the high-spec Z trim is distinguished by orange accents on the dashboard, center console, and the synthetic leather/fabric seat upholstery, while all models gain the option of an auto-dimming mirror with an integrated camera.

 

Pricing for the 2023 Toyota Aqua in Japan ranges between ¥ 1,997,000 (US$ 14,472) and ¥ 2,598,000 (US$ 18,817). Notably, the most expensive variant is the Aqua Z with the E-Four system and not the FWD-only Aqua GR Sport which retails for  ¥2,595,000 (US$ 18,806).