Some small items that fall flat include the Optitron gauges.  Although easy to read at night, they tend to wash out during the day, especially if you drive an Altis that’s not tinted.  The same goes for the audio system (an Eclipse 2-DIN) which is also filled with fiddly buttons and unfriendly nomenclature.  That aside, the rest of the instrumentation is easy to use and locate.  The gate-type shifter is slick (but the beeping sound when in reverse is still there), while the climate control is a joy even if it has pleura of switches throughout the center console. 

As soothing and fresh the Altis is on static display, the best way to experience it is on the move.  Despite its 1.8-liter displacement, the 1.8G feels like any decent 2.0-liter car.  But while the 145 horsepower is a hefty figure, the restrained manner of power delivery means that people who go for an Altis aren’t interested in doing hot laps of the Subic International Raceway; they’d rather go for a long trip to Baguio instead.  The four-speed automatic with Super ECT is sublime.  The computer-controlled shifting is accurate and prompt, making you think that you’re driving a manual.

Though less enigmatic than its sportier competition, the Altis is still one composed and solidly performing car.  The heavier weight of the 1.8G compared to the rest of the Altis line means it’s less jittery on choppy roads, while the suspension has enough travel to absorb most heavy bumps.  Despite its simplistic approach to suspension design (front MacPherson Struts and rear Torsion Beam), the ride is a perfect balance between firm and soft, while remaining predictable and stable through any sort of corner.

Overall, the Toyota Corolla Altis ends up as one great deal for a car.  Although some of its competitors may taut better handling, a sportier heritage or a mile-long kit list, the Altis is still the one solid choice for those who want a perfect balance between performance, safety, styling and comfort at a budget’s affordable.  And that’s not even considering its solid residual value in the future.  Other cars may arrive and some new styling cues introduced, but at the end of the day, it’s having the solid car that’s important.  And on that end, there’s nothing rock harder than the Toyota Corolla Altis.

The driving position is comfortable and all the controls are within easy reach. Although its not as sporty as some of its newer competition, the Altis is easy to live with on a daily basis.
Optitron gauges look good but wash out easily even in the shade. If you need to get an Altis, better have it tinted.
Gated shifter is easy to use with clear notches. It doesn't feel flimsy at all.

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