Toyota has finally launched the hotly-anticipated Starlet Cross in South Africa.
The crossover is the latest product to materialize from the partnership between Toyota and Suzuki, as the Starlet Cross is a badge-engineered version of the popular Suzuki Fronx.
It has an official starting price of R299,900, positioning it as the new entry-level Toyota SUV in South Africa.
Features
While it may be based on the Fronx, the Starlet Cross has its own visual identity with a unique grille, 16-inch alloy rims, and slim LED headlights and daytime running lights reminiscent of those seen on the Urban Cruiser.
At the back, the Toyota uses a Starlet-specific light signature with an extended taillight bar, which is complemented by a rear skid plate and a roof-end spoiler.
It measures 3,995mm in length, 1,765mm in width, and 1,550mm in height; making it 5mm longer, 20mm wider, and 50mm taller than the Starlet hatchback.
The crossover also has the same wheelbase as the hatch at 2,520mm but offers an extra 30mm of ground clearance to reach 170mm.
Inside, the cabin boasts a three-tone dashboard with a charcoal, silver, and Bordeaux finish accentuated by chrome accents.
The model line-up comprises two trim levels – XS and XR – and the former comes standard with automatic air conditioning, a leather multifunction steering wheel, three USB ports, four speakers, and a 7-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This is on top of safety and assistance equipment including rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, cruise control, vehicle stability control, hill assist, ABS, and two front airbags.
The top-spec XR models build on this list with auto-folding side mirrors, keyless entry and start, an electrochromic rearview mirror, a multi-information driver’s display, a wireless charger, height adjustment for the driver’s seat, a heads-up display, 360-degree cameras, a larger 9-inch media system, two more speakers, and four more airbags.
Appearance-wise, the XS has access to six monotone paint schemes, while the XR has the option of three bi-tone colours with a contrasting black roof, spoiler, and side mirror caps.
The crossover also supports Toyota Connect, allowing owners to access functions like in-car WiFi, a GPS vehicle locator, a battery health checker, service bookings, and roadside assistance from the My Toyota smartphone app.
Engine
The Starlet Cross range is powered by the same 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine found in the Starlet and Urban Cruiser, as well as the Suzuki Baleno, Fronx, and Grand Vitara.
This gives the crossover a maximum output of 77kW and 138Nm, which is transmitted to the front wheels.
Buyers have a choice of two gearboxes, starting with a five-speed manual that results in an average fuel consumption of 5.6l/100km.
Alternatively, there is a four-speed automatic transmission which has a slightly higher fuel stat of 5.8l/100km.
Price
The South African pricing for the new Toyota Starlet Cross is as follows:
- Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XS – R299,900
- Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XS Auto – R322,300
- Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XR – R339,300
- Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XR Auto – R359,300
Each purchase comes with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and 4-services/60,000km service plan.
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