IN THIS FEATURE Not just for old-timers T Sport no a class-leader Diesel's a goer

For a better dynamic performance, the T Sport's suspension has been tweaked with new coil springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. All of these suspension changes have allowed engineers to lower the ride height by a big 20mm, lending the T Sport a more aggressive and sporting stance on the road. Toyota also claims that the steering has been sharpened up, with fewer turns from lock to lock for more direct steering action.

Inside, the T Sport gains carbon-fibre-alike trim (a bit naff, actually) and aluminium pedals and footrest plate for the driver. More supportive seats with pronounced bolsters are also a new addition.

Not as composed through bends as class-leaders

Punching 189bhp through a somewhat notchy six-speed manual gearbox, the T Sport's 1.8-litre VVTL-i engine delivers strong in-gear performance and a 140mph top speed. This powertrain has a lot of character, too, with a snorting exhaust note and the ability to rev to an amazing 8200rpm limit. The six-speed 'box also has hysterically short ratios, demanding a driving style with lots of up and down shifts. And even though the gearbox has six speeds, top gear is still quite short so an 80mph cruise demands nearly 4000rpm, which makes for boomy progress.

The £15,595 T Sport is an effective tool on twisting mountain roads, but not among the best in class. Objectively swift and precise, the T Sport lacks the fine steering feedback and chassis sharpness of some rivals.