Toyota Starlet and Starlet Cross Get Safety and Service Upgrades in South Africa
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced significant updates for the Toyota Starlet hatchback and Starlet Cross crossover in South Africa. The upgrades focus on enhancing safety features in the lower trim levels and extending the service plan for both vehicles, aiming to offer better value to consumers.
Enhanced Safety Features
The most notable change is the addition of side and curtain airbags to the Starlet Xi and Xs trim levels, as well as the Starlet Cross Xs variant. Previously, these safety features were exclusively available on the range-topping Xr models. This update brings the total number of airbags in these models to six, aligning them with the safety standards of the higher-spec trims.
"With these specification updates, we’re not only expanding the safety features across more grades but also enhancing the Toyota ownership experience," said Tasneem Lorgat, General Manager of Marketing Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors. "It’s our way of showing customers that we are committed to offering cars that are as safe as they are enjoyable to own and drive.”
Extended Service Plan
In addition to the safety enhancements, Toyota has increased the mileage limit on the service plan for both the Starlet and Starlet Cross. The service plan now covers 60,000km, up from the previous 45,000km. The 3-year/100,000km warranty remains unchanged.
Key Features and Powertrain
Beyond the new airbags, the features list on the lower-spec Starlet and Starlet Cross models remains largely unchanged. This includes features such as a multifunction steering wheel, automatic air conditioning, a 7-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, cruise control, vehicle stability control, hill assist, and ABS.
Both the Starlet and Starlet Cross are powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing 77kW and 138Nm of torque. This power is delivered to the front wheels through either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox. Fuel consumption is rated between 5.6-5.8l/100km, depending on the transmission.
Pricing in South Africa
Below is a detailed breakdown of the updated pricing for the Toyota Starlet and Starlet Cross ranges in South Africa:
| Model | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Toyota Starlet 1.5 Xi | R268,300 |
| Toyota Starlet 1.5 Xs Manual | R275,900 |
| Toyota Starlet 1.5 Xs Auto | R297,900 |
| Toyota Starlet 1.5 Xr Manual | R307,600 |
| Toyota Starlet 1.5 Xr Auto | R327,600 |
| Model | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 Xs Manual | R304,900 |
| Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 Xs Auto | R335,800 |
| Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 Xr Manual | R355,300 |
| Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 Xr Auto | R375,900 |
Each purchase includes a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 4-service/60,000km service plan.
