7-speed auto ’box for new Altis

In a surprise move, Toyota will offer a seven-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Corolla Altis in place of the conventional four-speed torque converter-equipped auto. This is in addition to the manual option which is the mainstay.

The face-lifted Altis, which goes on sale next month, gets a new grille, bumper and headlights. The cosmetic changes are minimal but freshen this Toyota saloon, which has been around since 2008.

The Japanese carmaker will retain the Altis’ two current powerplants — the 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol and the 1.4-litre turbodiesel — and the company has confirmed that there will be no 1.6 petrol option as rumoured. Expect a marginal increase in prices when the face-lifted Altis arrives.

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