Features / 4 June 2022 / Michael Taylor

Hatchbacks you can buy for the same price as the new Toyota Starlet

The latest iteration of the Toyota Starlet is now available in South Africa, offering a solid choice in the popular hatchback category.

The Starlet is available in five models, with prices ranging from the entry-level Xi at R226,200 to the top-of-the-line XR at R313,300.

Under the hood of the Starlet is a 1.5-litre petrol engine, delivering 77kW and 138Nm to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox.

The result is a combined fuel consumption of 5.4-5.7l/100km, a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 11.2 seconds, and a top speed of 160km/h for the automatics and 175km/h for the manuals.

Standard features on the hatchback include a fabric upholstery, automatic air-conditioning, power-retractable wing mirrors, a multifunction steering wheel, four speakers, rear parking sensors, hill-assist, and a boot with 314-litres of storage.

The Starlet also includes a touchscreen infotainment system of between 18-23cm, depending on the model, with support for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Toyota Connect for in-car WiFi.

Upgrading to the top-end XR model will add cruise control, a reverse camera, park distance control, two more speakers, keyless entry, and a leather steering wheel to the list of features.

Furthermore, the XR is fitted with LED daytime-running lights, chrome door handles, LED foglamps, automatic LED projector headlights, a black chrome grille, auto-folding side mirrors, and 16-inch alloy wheels to help differentiate itself from the rest of the range.

Finally, all versions of the new Toyota Starlet are sold with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 3-services/45,000km service plan.