- JOINT ventures and cross-brand partnerships – these are the driving forces of an ever-increasing global market.
And as a result of an ever-expanding market, demand and economic emancipation, automakers are increasingly being required to adapt.
On 28 August, 2019, Toyota and Suzuki announced a formal alliance between the two companies in order to leverage each other’s strengths and compete in the evolving global vehicle market.
Toyota’s expertise in Hybrid technology would be of benefit to Suzuki, while Toyota would get access to compact vehicles, a Suzuki strength.
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A mutually-beneficial alliance was born: the Toyota Starlet.
The first product to come out of this brand alliance and make it to our shores is the Toyota Starlet.
The Starlet name dates back to 1973, and has adorned Toyota’s sub-compact hatchback in the Japanese domestic market for five generations (ending in 1999).
Staying true to the ethos of being a compact, efficient and value-focused product, the newcomer proudly revives the Starlet badge., The PositioningThe sub-B segment accounts for the second highest share of passenger vehicle sales in South Africa and is a fiercely competitive territory. The Starlet replaces Etios in Toyota’s line-up., a vehicle that captured an average 22% share of the sub-B segment over its lifespan. Starlet builds on the core strengths of Etios – good performance, fuel efficiency and affordable pricing.It also amplifies the product offering with a modern exterior design, spacious interior and enhanced specification levels., Modern ExteriorThe exterior design follows a classic hatchback profile, with a short, downward-sloping nose and rounded-off rear hatch. The rear design centres around the large LED tail lamps with red and translucent accents. These are joined by a stylish chrome garnish strip and trapezoidal indent in the lower bumper section.The overall result is a harmoniously handsome design., Interior DesignThe interior layout prioritises spaciousness and ergonomics without compromising on flair. A chunky three-spoke steering wheel incorporates steering switches and cruise control (where equipped)., Running GearThe foundation of Starlet is Suzuki’s TECT platform, which utilises high-tensile steel in critical areas as well as energy absorption channels – to produce a strong, safe and lightweight chassis. A traditional McPherson strut front-suspension design is joined by a torsion-beam rear axle. The torsion-beam layout provides enhanced packaging and contributes to Starlet’s spaciousness.The Xi model is equipped with 15”-steel wheels shod with 175-65R15 tyres and a space- saver spare wheel. Xs and Xr variants feature stylish turbine-shaped 16”-alloy wheels with 185-55R16 rubber., Engine and PerformancePowering the Starlet is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine. Featuring Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a tumble-flow intake manifold, the engine exhibits a rev-happy character and makes light work of the daily commute. Power output is pegged at 68kW @ 6000 rpm with 130Nm of torque @ 4200 rpm.Low fuel consumption is a key feature, with the fuel index registering between 5.1 and 5.4 l/100 km depending on variant. A 37-litre fuel tank provides an effective range of over 700km on a single tank., Grade Strategy and SpecificationA three-grade strategy has been adopted using the familiar Xi, Xs and Xr symbols used across Toyota’s other passenger-car ranges. Despite serving as the entry point to the Starlet range, the Xi model is generously specced, featuring air-conditioning, electric power steering, dual 12-volt power outlets, electric windows, tilt-adjustable steering column, 60/40 split rear seats, power-adjustable side mirrors and remote central locking. The Xs model adds alloy wheels to the ensemble., Audio and InfotainmentXi and Xs models feature a double-DIN audio system with CD/Bluetooth/USB/Aux functionality, playing through 6-speakers. Xr models offer a feature-rich touchscreen audio system complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration for navigation, telephony and music-streaming services. All Starlet models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system, which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15GB data. Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota app. This intuitive app allows on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services and much more., Safety and SecurityAll Starlet models come generously equipped with safety and security equipment. which include active electronic aids such as ABS, EBD, Brake Assist and Vehicle Stability Control . Automatic transmission models also include Hill Assist Control., Model Line-up and PricingStarlet 1.4 Xi MT – R204 900Starlet 1.4 Xs MT – R215 200Starlet 1.4 Xs AT – R235 700 Starlet 1.4 Xr MT – R258 500 Starlet 1.4 Xr AT – R272 500, Warranty and MaintenanceAll Starlet models are sold with a 3-services/45 000 km service plan – with 15 000 km service intervals.
- A three-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided. Customers can purchase an additional service plan and warranty extensions from their local Toyota dealer.
The centre ‘hang-down’ section of the dashboard neatly groups the ventilation, infotainment and climate-control switchgear. Contour lines create a feeling of unison with the exterior design. The driver is greeted by a bright and easy-to-read instrument cluster with on-centre multi-information display and dual analogue gauges.
The side profile features contour-following upper and lower crease lines – which create a sense of motion – topped off with colour-coded exterior mirrors. Prominent wheel arches give the Starlet a sure-footed stance.
Two transmission choices are on offer, a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic, all driving the front wheels. The obligatory 0-100km/h dash is dispatched in 10.9s for the manual and 11.6s for the auto variant.
Towing capacity weighs in at 400kg unbraked and 1000kg braked.
Traditional USB, Bluetooth and MP3/Aux compatibility remains – offering the user a wide variety of in-vehicle entertainment sources. Reverse camera monitoring is also embedded within the infotainment system.
