The New Toyota Starlet: Features, Price, and Performance Insights

Overview of the Toyota Starlet: Key Highlights and Pricing

Since its debut, the Toyota Starlet has remained a popular choice in the compact hatchback segment, consistently ranking at the top in sales. Its appeal stems from dependable performance, recent engine enhancements, and competitive pricing within its class. The car's balance of affordability and modern features makes it highly attractive to buyers seeking value and style. Several upgrades across exterior, engine, and interior make the latest Starlet a compelling option in the market.

Features of the Toyota Starlet

Exterior Updates
The newest Toyota Starlet showcases notable exterior improvements. Enhanced with chrome accents, the design exudes a sophisticated yet sporty look. Front LED headlights paired with wider fog lamps enhance visibility and style, while redesigned rear lights contribute to a sleeker silhouette. The model also sports 16-inch alloy wheels, adding to its visual appeal.

Engine Performance
The Starlet's engine has received a significant upgrade. Addressing previous concerns about performance, the latest models are equipped with a 1.5-liter engine that delivers increased power and better acceleration. With nearly 9 kW more output—totaling around 77 kW—and approximately 138 Nm of torque, the vehicle now offers a more dynamic driving experience. Even with passengers and cargo onboard, the engine maintains stable and responsive performance, making city commuting and daily drives more enjoyable.

Fuel efficiency remains solid, averaging between 5.4 to 5.7 L/100 km despite the engine enhancements, representing a slight 0.2 L/100 km decrease from previous versions. This balanced fuel economy ensures economical running in everyday use.

Interior Comforts

Inside, the Starlet offers a comfortable and technology-rich cabin. Base models come with a 7-inch touchscreen and support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims feature a larger 9-inch display, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and premium sound with six tweeters. Amenities like automatic climate control, USB ports, smart entry, push start, rearview camera, and cruise control are standard or available as options. Higher-end variants further enhance interior luxury with upgraded materials.

Safety Features

Standard safety includes stability control, ABS, EBD, hill-start assist, and rear parking sensors. More advanced variants feature a reverse-view camera, additional airbags—totaling four including side and curtain airbags—for maximum protection in case of an accident.

Available Variants

The entry-level Xi variant emphasizes affordability and durability, with features like automatic climate control, multi-info display, power mirrors, and basic safety aids. Mid-range Xs models offer manual and automatic transmissions, along with 16-inch alloy wheels and fog lights. The top-tier XR wraps up the lineup, boasting an upgraded infotainment system, reverse camera, push-button start, cruise control, and a leather steering wheel, providing a premium experience.

Pricing and Purchase Options

Although prices have slightly increased for the latest models, the Starlet still offers excellent long-term value. Estimated pricing for 2024 across different trims in South Africa includes:

Starlet 1.5 Xi MT ZAR 2,26,200

Starlet 1.5 Xs MT ZAR 2,39,100

Starlet 1.5 Xs AT ZAR 2,61,100

Starlet 1.5 XR MT ZAR 2,94,900

Starlet 1.5 XR AT ZAR 3,13,300

Potential buyers can explore local dealerships for special deals and discounts, making the purchase more affordable.