GR Corolla Exhausts Systems

Sequential Racing Blog — GR Corolla

Best GR Corolla Exhaust Systems Australia 

The short answer: For sound and power the RSE Full Titanium is king. For value and tone the AWE Touring is hard to beat. For the full titanium race-spec build, RSE Type D is in a class of its own. Read on for the full breakdown.

The Toyota GR Corolla (GZEX) has taken Australia by storm. With its 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine pushing 221kW, it's one of the most exciting performance cars you can buy new in Australia right now — and the aftermarket is catching up fast.

One of the first and most impactful upgrades any GR Corolla owner makes is the exhaust. The stock system is decent but heavily muffled for noise regulations. A quality aftermarket exhaust unlocks the true character of that three-cylinder engine — a unique, aggressive sound unlike anything else on the road.

We stock and install GR Corolla exhausts at our Altona North Melbourne workshop. This guide is based on real-world fitment experience and customer feedback — not spec sheets.

What to Know Before Buying a GR Corolla Exhaust

The GR Corolla's G16E-GTS engine has a unique three-cylinder exhaust note — when properly uncorked it produces a distinctive burble and crackle that's completely different to a four or six cylinder. Choosing the right exhaust is about finding the system that best expresses that character.

A few things to consider before buying:

Catback vs full system: Most GR Corolla exhausts available in Australia are catback systems — replacing everything from the catalytic converter back. This is the legal, most practical option for street-driven cars. Full turbo-back systems exist but are generally for track-only builds.

Titanium vs stainless: Titanium is lighter, develops a beautiful heat-blued colour over time, and sounds slightly more exotic. Stainless is heavier but more affordable and equally durable. Both are excellent choices.

Drone: Three-cylinder engines can produce cabin drone at certain RPM ranges with some exhausts. We've noted this where relevant below.

Fitment: All exhausts listed here are direct OEM replacement fitment for the 2023+ GR Corolla. No modifications required.

1. RSE Full Titanium Exhaust – GR Corolla Type D

🏆 Editor's Pick

RSE Type D Full Titanium — GR Corolla

RSE (Racing Sport Exhaust) is a Japanese brand known for producing some of the finest titanium exhaust systems in the world. Their GR Corolla Type D is a full titanium catback system that is genuinely spectacular — both visually and acoustically.

The blue-titanium tip finish is a work of art. Under hard acceleration this system produces an aggressive, high-pitched three-cylinder howl that turns heads immediately. At idle it's refined enough for daily driving.

Material: Full titanium
Fitment: 2023+ GR Corolla
Type: Catback
Origin: Japan
Tip finish: Blue titanium
Install: Direct OEM fit

Pros

  • Stunning titanium tip finish
  • Aggressive but refined sound
  • Lightweight titanium construction
  • Premium Japanese quality
  • Direct bolt-on fitment

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Limited AU stock — sells fast

Sequential Racing verdict: The RSE Type D is the exhaust we recommend when customers want the absolute best. The sound, the finish, the weight saving — it ticks every box. If budget allows, this is the one.

Shop RSE GR Corolla Exhaust →

2. AWE Tuning Touring Edition – GR Corolla (2023+)

💰 Best Value

AWE Tuning Touring Edition — GR Corolla

AWE Tuning out of Pennsylvania has built a strong reputation in the performance exhaust market, particularly for their refined sound engineering. Their GR Corolla Touring Edition is designed to deliver a meaningful sound upgrade over stock without becoming obnoxious for daily driving.

This is the exhaust we recommend for GR Corolla owners who want a noticeable improvement in sound and a slight power gain while keeping the car comfortable for commuting. The drone levels are impressively low for a performance exhaust.

Material: Stainless steel
Fitment: 2023+ GR Corolla
Type: Catback
Origin: USA
Tip finish: Polished stainless
Install: Direct OEM fit

Pros

  • Excellent daily driver balance
  • Low drone at highway speeds
  • Strong brand reputation
  • More accessible price point
  • Great sound without being loud

Cons

  • Stainless not titanium
  • Less aggressive than RSE
  • Heavier than titanium options

Sequential Racing verdict: If you drive your GR Corolla daily and don't want to sacrifice comfort, the AWE Touring is the smart pick. Great sound, great quality, sensible price.

Shop AWE GR Corolla Exhaust →

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature RSE Type D Titanium AWE Touring Edition
Material Full Titanium Stainless Steel
Sound level Aggressive Moderate
Daily drivability Good Excellent
Weight saving Significant Minimal
Visual impact Blue titanium tips Polished stainless
Price Premium More accessible
Best for Performance builds Daily drivers
AU stock Limited Available

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a GR Corolla exhaust void my warranty in Australia?
Under Australian Consumer Law, a manufacturer cannot void your entire warranty simply because you've fitted an aftermarket part. They would need to prove the aftermarket part directly caused the specific issue you're claiming warranty on. That said, we recommend keeping your stock exhaust in case you ever need to swap back for a dealer service or warranty claim.
Is a GR Corolla exhaust legal in Australia?
Catback exhaust systems that comply with noise limits (generally 90dB for modified vehicles in most Australian states) are legal. The systems listed here are designed for street use. Always check your state's specific ADR requirements if you're unsure.
How much does GR Corolla exhaust installation cost in Melbourne?
We offer professional installation at our Altona North workshop. Contact us via the contact page or Instagram @Sequential_Racing to get a quote and book a time.
What does a GR Corolla exhaust sound like?
The G16E-GTS three-cylinder has a unique sound compared to four and six cylinder engines — it produces a higher-pitched, more exotic note with a distinctive crackle and burble on overrun. With a quality aftermarket exhaust this character is amplified significantly. It sounds like nothing else on the road.
Can I install a GR Corolla exhaust myself?
These are direct bolt-on catback systems — no welding required. A mechanically capable person with basic tools can install one at home. However we always recommend professional installation to ensure correct fitment, torquing, and to avoid exhaust leaks. We can handle the full install at our Melbourne workshop.

Our Final Verdict

The GR Corolla exhaust market in Australia is still developing — new options are coming to market regularly as the car's popularity grows. Right now, these two systems represent the best of what's available.

Choose RSE Type D if: you want the best possible sound, the titanium aesthetic, and you're building a serious performance GR Corolla.

Choose AWE Touring if: you daily drive your GR Corolla and want a meaningful upgrade without sacrificing comfort or going too loud.

Either way, your GR Corolla will sound significantly better than stock — and that distinctive three-cylinder howl is something every GR Corolla owner should experience.

Both systems are available now at Sequential Racing with fast Australia-wide shipping and professional installation available at our Altona North Melbourne workshop.

Shop All GR Corolla Exhausts →

Sequential Racing Team — Melbourne, Australia

We stock, install and live and breathe performance parts for GR platforms and beyond. Located in Altona North, Melbourne. Questions? Reach us at @Sequential_Racing on Instagram or via our contact page.