Toyota Starlet

The Toyota Starlet. Image: Cornel van Heerden

The Starlet is born: Toyota and Suzuki birth new budget hatch

The Starlet – the first model to emerge from a joint venture between Toyota and Suzuki – replaces Etios in Toyota’s line-up.

Toyota Starlet

The Toyota Starlet. Image: Cornel van Heerden

At the end of August 2019, Toyota and Suzuki announced a mutually beneficial alliance between the two brands: Toyota would come to the party with its hybrid technology and autonomous driving, while getting access to the Suzuki strength of compact vehicles.

The first product to come out of this brand alliance and make it to our shores, is the Toyota Starlet which was launched on Monday 21 September.

The Starlet name dates back to 1973, and has adorned Toyota’s sub-compact hatchback in the Japanese domestic market for five generations (ending in 1999).

Toyota Starlet to build on Etios core strengths

The Starlet replaces Etios in Toyota’s line-up in the highly competitive sub-B segment in which the Etios captured an average 22% share over its lifespan.

Starlet builds on the core strengths of Etios – good performance, fuel efficiency and affordable pricing – then amplifies the product offering with a modern exterior design, spacious interior and enhanced specification levels.

Exterior: Modern yet classic

The exterior design follows a classic hatchback profile, with a short, downward-sloping nose and rounded-off rear hatch. A V-shaped front grille (in Toyota-specific finishing) with centrally mounted Toyota insignia, are joined by two vertically arranged headlamps with chrome inlay. A trapezoidal lower air dam is flanked by stylised fog lamp housings (where fitted).

The side profile features contour-following upper and lower crease lines – which create a sense of motion – topped off with colour-coded exterior mirrors. Prominent wheel arches give the Starlet a sure-footed stance. 

The rear design centres around the large LED tail lamps with red and translucent accents. These are joined by a stylish chrome garnish strip and trapezoidal indent in the lower bumper section. The overall result is a harmoniously handsome design.

Starlet interior flair

The interior layout prioritises spaciousness and ergonomics without compromising on flair. The centre “hang-down” section of the dashboard neatly groups the ventilation, infotainment and climate-control switchgear. Contour lines create a feeling of unison with the exterior design.

The driver is greeted by a bright and easy-to-read instrument cluster with on-centre Multi-Information Display (MID) and dual analogue gauges. 

A chunky three-spoke steering wheel incorporates steering switches and cruise control (where equipped).

Image: Supplied

Running gear

The foundation of the Starlet is Suzuki’s TECT platform which utilises high-tensile steel in critical areas, as well as energy absorption channels, to produce a strong, safe and lightweight chassis.

A traditional McPherson strut front-suspension design is joined by a torsion-beam rear axle. The torsion-beam layout provides enhanced packaging and contributes to Starlet’s spaciousness.

Rev-happy: Engine and performance

Powering the Starlet is a 1.4-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine. Featuring Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a tumble-flow intake manifold, the engine exhibits a rev-happy character and makes light work of the daily commute. Power output is pegged at 68kW @ 6000 rpm with 130Nm of torque @ 4200 rpm.

Two transmission choices are on offer, a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic, all driving the front wheels. The obligatory 0-100km/h dash is dispatched in 10.9s for the manual and 11.6s for the auto variant.

Low fuel consumption is a key feature, with the fuel index registering between 5.1 and 5.4 l/100 km depending on variant. A 37-litre fuel tank provides an effective range of over 700km on a single tank.

The Toyota Starlet Xi, Xs and Xr

Despite serving as the entry point to the Starlet range, the Xi model is generously specced, featuring air-conditioning, electric power steering, dual 12-volt power outlets, electric windows, tilt-adjustable steering column, 60/40 split rear seats, power-adjustable side mirrors and remote central locking. The Xs model adds alloy wheels to the ensemble.

The flagship Xr models receive the full package, comprising chrome door handles and side mouldings, rear privacy glass, front fog lamps, LED + Projector headlamps with daytime running lights (DRL), side-mirror mounted indicators and a roof spoiler.

Moving to the interior, the spec level is amped up courtesy of a digital speedometer with colour MID, leather steering wheel with telescopic adjustment, park distance control (PDC), reverse camera, climate control and push-start operation. Cruise control is also provided, operated via steering-wheel-mounted switches. 

Audio and infotainment

Xi and Xs models feature a double-DIN audio system with CD/Bluetooth/USB/Aux functionality, playing through 6-speakers. Xr models offer a feature-rich touchscreen audio system complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration for navigation, telephony and music-streaming services.

Traditional USB, Bluetooth and MP3/Aux compatibility remains while reverse camera monitoring is also embedded within the infotainment system.

All Starlet models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car WiFi hotspot and complimentary 15 gig data.

Image: Supplied

Safety and security features

All Starlet models come generously equipped with safety and security equipment which include active electronic aids, such as ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Automatic transmission models also include Hill Assist Control (HAC).

Xi and Xs models are fitted with Driver and Passenger (D+P) airbags, while the Xr variants also feature Curtain and Side airbags (C+S). Two ISOFIX points and a security system are provided across the board.         

Model line-up and pricing

  • Starlet 1.4 Xi MT         – R204 900
  • Starlet 1.4 Xs MT        – R215 200
  • Starlet 1.4 Xs AT        – R235 700    
  • Starlet 1.4 Xr MT        – R258 500    
  • Starlet 1.4 Xr AT         – R272 500