The addition of the Starlet Cross to its local line-up marks a significant entry into the compact crossover segment for Toyota, bringing with it a fusion of style, functionality, and affordability. Leveraging its strategic partnership with Suzuki, the newest Toyota is aggressively priced and comprehensively specced, to bolster the brand’s representation at the lower (yet high-volume) segment of the market.
Much has been said about Toyota’s strategic partnership with Maruti Suzuki since the two brands’ first collaborative effort – the Vitara Brezza-based first-gen Toyota Urban Cruiser – arrived here in 2021. Since then, five new Toyota products grounded on Suzuki counterparts – Starlet/Baleno, Vitz/Celerio, second-gen Urban Cruiser/Grand Vitara, Rumion/Ertiga, and the Starlet Cross – have made their way to local roads.
This collaboration leverages the strengths of both companies, allowing for shared engineering and production costs, which enhance profitability and ensure consumers receive a vehicle equipped with proven technology.
The Starlet Cross, sharing its roots with the Suzuki Fronx, again shows how strategic alliances can lead to innovative and appealing products while stimulating competition.
Naturally, brand recognition plays a substantial role in how, essentially, the same product with a different badge is perceived while also influencing sales. Yet, in the case of Toyota versus Suzuki in this market, this doesn’t seem to have significantly impacted the smaller Suzuki brand, which has seen exponential growth as buyers increasingly seek smaller, well-equipped cars.
TRIM OPTIONS
The Toyota Starlet Cross range in South Africa has two main trims with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission option, each catering to different requirements.
All models, including the entry-level XS variant, are powered by a robust 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, producing 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque.
As the range starter, the Xs includes standard features such as LED daytime running lights, a 7” touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloth upholstery and basic safety features including two airbags, rear park-distance control, 16” alloy wheels and a 304-litre boot capacity expandable via 60:40 split rear seats.
Higher up, the premium XR trim enhances the offering with additional features for comfort and safety, including an upgraded 9” touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic view monitor, and a heads-up display. Airbag quantity is increased to six, while bi-tone paint options, chrome garnishes, and machine-finished alloy wheels complete the subtly premium look.
Inside the cabin, Xr models feature upgraded materials with additional comfort features such as wireless charging and advanced driver assistance systems.
Overall, the Starlet Cross interior does not compromise on style or substance, featuring a tri-tone dashboard with premium finishes.
DRIVING AND PRACTICALITY
The Starlet Cross driving experience is both efficient and sufficient for daily use, with fuel consumption figures impressively low at around 5.6 to 5.8 l/100 km, despite the crossover’s zesty acceleration and ample top speed of 175 km/h (manual) and 170 km/h (automatic).
Practicality is a key strength of the Starlet Cross, offering plentiful cabin and cargo space in the crossover version of the standard Toyota Starlet.
At the same time, the Starlet Cross doesn’t disappoint in driver and passenger comfort, with seats offering ample support and surprisingly sufficient rear legroom for a compact crossover of this size.
Rear passengers also benefit from two USB-A ports for smartphone charging and an extra air-conditioning vent.
LAST WORD
The Toyota Starlet Cross, through its affordability and robust feature set, competes effectively in a crowded market against rivals like the Kia Sonet and Nissan Magnite. It underscores Toyota’s commitment to providing value-driven vehicles and showcases the potential of collaborations like that with Suzuki. Although Suzuki offers an extended warranty for the Fronx, the early sales success and positive reception of the Starlet Cross indicate a promising future in this market, likely making it a favourite among drivers looking for a reliable, stylish, and practical vehicle option.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA
