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Sequential Racing Blog — GR Corolla
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
| 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 |
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 →
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