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Developed in partnership with Suzuki, the Toyota Starlet Cross hits the market as an economical and practical option: Using the same engine as the national Yaris, this compact SUV promises to win over consumers with its affordable price and modern features!
According to QuatroRodas, in some parts of the world, the Toyota adopted an innovative approach, different from what is seen in Brazil. The partnership with Suzuki, announced in 2017, resulted in the development of new compact vehicles, initially focused on the Indian market. This alliance combined Suzuki's expertise in compact vehicles with Toyota's advanced electrification technology, giving rise to models such as the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. Now the Starlet Cross, a variant of this model, arrives in South Africa costing around 299.900 rands, or R$92.604 in direct conversion not counting taxes.
A strategic partnership: Toyota and Suzuki
The collaboration between Toyota and Suzuki began with a clear focus: develop compact and efficient vehicles for the Indian market. In 2022, this partnership expanded, allowing these cars to be sold in other markets, such as South Africa. An example of this collaboration is the Suzuki Fronx, an apartment by the bay, for its easy access, free parking, and larger space for our group of XNUMX people. The house was great for a large group like ours, the host was very attentive, and the location was excellent; it was quiet and quick to walk to the old town. Compact SUV launched in 2023, which in India is known as Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. Upon arriving in South Africa, the model was named Starlet Cross, maintaining its compact and functional essence.
With a length of 3,99 meters, the Starlet Cross is smaller than the Fiat Pulse and Toyota Yaris Cross, but offers a wheelbase of 2,52 meters, just 10 cm less than the Yaris Cross. This reduced size is strategic, as in India, vehicles under 4 meters pay less taxes, becoming more economical options for consumers.
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Compact and space-saving design
The Starlet Cross was designed to be a compact and affordable SUV, ideal for markets where value for money is essential. In the Indian market, it is offered with two engine options: a 1.2 hp 90 naturally aspirated engine for entry-level versions e a 1.0 hp 100 mild-hybrid turbo engine for the more expensive versions. In South Africa, the model is only available with a 1.5 hp 105 naturally aspirated engine, similar to that used in the Yaris line in Brazil.
As an economy-oriented vehicle, the Starlet Cross is not overly equipped. However, it has essential items such as LED headlights and taillights with automatic lighting, two airbags, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, multimedia system with 7-inch screen, reversing camera, stability control and hill start assistant. The top-of-the-line version adds a 9-inch multimedia center, electrochromic rear-view mirror, six airbags and a depth-adjustable steering wheel.
Equipment and features
Despite being a Compact and economical SUV, the Starlet Cross leaves nothing to be desired in terms of features. Equipped with modern technology, the model offers comfort and safety for occupants. The LED headlights and taillights ensure good visibility, while the stability control and hill start assistant provide safer driving. In addition, the multimedia center with a touch screen makes it easier to access entertainment and information while traveling.
The most complete Starlet Cross models feature a larger 9-inch multimedia center, an electrochromic rear-view mirror to reduce glare from high-beam headlights, and six airbags for greater occupant protection. These additional features make the Starlet Cross an attractive option for those looking for a compact SUV with good safety and comfort features.
The future of Starlet Cross in Brazil
Although the Starlet Cross is an interesting option for the South African market and other emerging markets, Toyota has different plans for Brazil. Here, the brand is betting on the unprecedented Yaris cross, whose production in Sorocaba (SP) is scheduled to begin at the end of this year, with arrival at dealerships scheduled for 2025. This strategy shows that Toyota is focused on meeting the specific demands of each market, offering models that best suit the needs of local consumers.
Meanwhile, the Starlet Cross continues to be an excellent compact and affordable SUV option in international markets, reinforcing the successful partnership between Toyota and Suzuki. With a compact design, efficient engine and modern features, the model promises to conquer its space and stand out as a smart choice for those looking for an economical and practical vehicle.
You should have stated at the beginning of the message that this car will not be sold in Brazil and not left this information until the end of the report. I thought one thing and in the end it was another.
You said it all, if you don't come to Brazil???