Why do Asians get a better version of the Corolla / Camry?

Francois

I drive a 2006 Corolla S (Canadian version). When my dad and I visited friends working in an outsourcing company in the Philippines last September, The car that was used to fetch us up in the airport is a Corolla (they call it ?Altis? there). Unlike the North American Corolla, which is well, dull and very economy looking, The Asian Corolla is basically a Lexus disguised as a Corolla. It?s even better looking than my Dad?s 2007 Camry. Oh, and if their Corolla is practically a mini-Lexus, their version of the Camry is even far more luxurious (diff rear/front end). When I flew back home, I realized how ugly my car is. I?m just curious why Americans and Canadians get crappy versions of Japanese cars? IT?S NOT FAIR!

Huba

Sadly, the majority of Americans have no interest in styling so the company tries to appeal to the largest number of folks they can with a less radical style.

rataflimmy

that's because here in the philippines, we don't have the luxury cars that you do. we make do with corolla's, civic's, mazda 3's, and the like. we have very limited options, so it's fairly easy for car companies to take a bigger bite out of the market with options like leather seats, fake wood trim, etc.

Emo Super Star

US has restrictions with emissions. I'm not sure on Canada.