The Prius C You Remember Has Become A Toyota GR Sport

The Prius C disappeared from American showrooms years ago, but its Japanese cousin is still alive and getting sportier. Toyota has added a GR Sport trim to the facelifted Aqua lineup.

Toyota gives the Aqua GR Sport a lower and sharper look with a new body kit. The front bumper gets larger intakes and aero extensions, while black side skirts and 17-inch wheels with red GR-branded brake calipers dress up the sides. At the rear, there are honeycomb-style details around the diffuser and a new black panel between the taillights. The exhaust remains hidden, though, so don't expect hot-hatch drama.

The cabin gets sportier seats with larger bolsters, finished in synthetic leather and Airnubuck. Gunmetal trim, aluminum pedals, and GR badges on the steering wheel, and smart key add a few more reminders of which version you bought. Those wanting even more GR logos can find branded floor and luggage mats in the options catalog.

The useful upgrades are underneath. Toyota has added extra bracing, retuned the suspension, and adjusted the steering to make the Aqua feel sharper on the road. Power stays at 114 hp from the familiar 1.5-liter self-charging hybrid system, and the GR Sport is front-wheel drive only. Regular Aqua models can still be ordered with Toyota's E-Four all-wheel-drive system.

Prices in Japan start at ¥2,857,800 ($17,600) for the regular Aqua and climb to ¥3,072,300 ($18,900). The GR Sport costs ¥3,238,400 ($20,000). Just don't expect 114 hp to scare anyone.