All-new Toyota Starlet now on sale in Mzansi
The Toyota Starlet lives a double life as a Suzuki Baleno following a mutually-beneficial partnership between the two companies since 2020.
For the 2022 model year, the Toyota Starlet is getting an all-new model that boasts stylishly good looks to make it stand out in the B-segment, thanks to revised front and rear-styling, sleek headlamps up front, chrome detailing plus a subtle boot spoiler.
The interior has also received an update in the form of swooping accent lines and blue detailing, with a large centrally-mounted infotainment screen and an instrument binnacle that Toyota says is “easy to read”. Added to the mix is a chunky-looking, three-spoke multi-function steering wheel.
In terms of specification, the Toyota Starlet is sold in three trim levels; Xi, Xs and Xr. All models are fitted with either an 18 or 23 cm touchscreen audio system that allows USB, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. Other standard features include a rear USB charger, automatic climate control, power-retractable mirrors and electric windows.
All models come equipped with rear parking sensors, hill assist control, vehicle stability control, ABS and EBD with the range-topping Xr adding smart-entry, push-to-start and cruise control among other niceties.
A new 1.5-litre engine borrowed from the Urban Cruiser replaces the forebear’s 1.4-litre powerplant. The engine produces 77 kW of power and 138 Nm of torque accessed either via a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.
- Starlet 1.5 Xi MT R226,200
- Starlet 1.5 Xs MT R239,100
- Starlet 1.5 Xs AT R261,100
- Starlet 1.5 Xr MT R294,900
- Starlet 1.5 Xr AT R313,300
All Starlet models are sold with a three-service/45,000 km service plan – with 15,000 km service intervals. A three-year/100,000 km warranty is also provided.
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