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Developed In Partnership With Suzuki, The Toyota Starlet Cross Arrives In The Market As An Economical And Practical Option: Using The Same Engine As The National Yaris, This Compact SUV Promises To Capture Consumers With Its Affordable Price And Modern Features!
According to Quatrorodas, in some parts of the world, 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 like the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. Now, the Starlet Cross, a variant of this model, arrives in South Africa priced at around 299,900 rands, or R$ 92,604 in direct conversion excluding taxes.
A Strategic Partnership: Toyota And Suzuki
The collaboration between Toyota and Suzuki started with a clear focus: developing 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, a compact SUV launched in 2023, which in India is known as Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. Upon arriving in South Africa, the model was renamed Starlet Cross, maintaining its compact and functional essence.
Measuring 3.99 meters in length, the Starlet Cross is smaller than the Fiat Pulse and Toyota Yaris Cross, but offers a wheelbase of 2.52 meters, only 10 cm less than the Yaris Cross. This reduced sizing is strategic, as in India, vehicles under 4 meters pay lower taxes, making them more economical options for consumers.
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Compact Design And Space Economy
The Starlet Cross has been designed to be a compact and accessible SUV, ideal for markets where cost-effectiveness is essential. In the Indian market, it is offered with two engine options: a 1.2 naturally aspirated engine with 90 hp for the entry-level versions and a 1.0 turbo hybrid engine with 100 hp for the pricier versions. In South Africa, the model is available only with a 1.5 naturally aspirated engine with 105 hp, similar to that used in the Yaris lineup in Brazil.
As a vehicle aimed at economy, the Starlet Cross is not overly equipped. However, it comes with essential items such as LED headlights and taillights with automatic lighting, two airbags, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, a multimedia system with a 7-inch display, a rearview camera, stability control, and hill-start assist. The top version adds a 9-inch multimedia center, an electrochromatic mirror, six airbags, and a depth-adjustable steering wheel.
Equipment And Features
Despite being a compact and economical SUV, the Starlet Cross does not disappoint 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 stability control and hill-start assist provide a safer driving experience. Additionally, the multimedia center with a touchscreen makes access to entertainment and information easier during the trip.
The more complete models of the Starlet Cross come with a larger 9-inch multimedia center, an electrochromatic mirror to reduce the glare from high beams, 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 characteristics.
The Future Of The 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 later this year, with arrivals at dealerships expected in 2025. This strategy shows that Toyota is focused on meeting the specific demands of each market, offering models that better fit local consumer needs.
Meanwhile, the Starlet Cross remains an excellent option for a compact and affordable SUV in international markets, reinforcing the successful partnership between Toyota and Suzuki. With a compact design, efficient engine, and modern features, the model promises to secure its space and stand out as a smart choice for those looking for an economical and practical vehicle.
Você deveria colocar no início da mensagem que esse carro não será comercializado no Brasil e não deixar essa informação só para o final da reportagem. Achei uma coisa e no final era outra.
Falou tudo, se não vem para o Brasil???