New Toyota Model Combines Robust Design, 1.5L Aspirated Engine, and Complete Equipment Package for Urban Daily Use and Travel
The Toyota Starlet Cross has just been introduced as the newest member of the brand’s lineup of compact SUVs. Positioned between the Urban Cruiser and the conventional Starlet, the model arrives with modern design, a 1.5L gasoline engine, and a robust list of comfort, connectivity, and safety features.
Developed for the audience looking for practicality in the city and performance on trips, the Starlet Cross is initially aimed at emerging markets such as South Africa and other countries on the African continent, where Toyota has a solid presence.
Toyota Starlet Cross Features 1.5L Engine and Automatic Transmission
The Toyota Starlet Cross is equipped with a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine that delivers 103 hp (77 kW) of power and 138 Nm of torque, always with front-wheel drive. The transmission is automatic, focused on comfort and fuel economy for urban and highway use.
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Hyundai sells an executive minivan that looks like a VIP room on wheels: Custin carries 7 people, uses a 1.5 turbo engine with 168 hp, 8-speed automatic transmission, and costs around R$ 157,000 in direct conversion in Vietnam.
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The 7-seater Toyota that seems too cheap to exist in Brazil: Rush has a 1.5 engine, manual or automatic option, and a converted price close to R$ 81,000, while here families need to aim for much more expensive SUVs.
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The 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero Dakar diesel shows 314,000 km and still draws attention for its reputation for durability; the seven-seater 4×4 SUV handles trails, but signs of severe use may conceal losses for used car buyers.
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Peugeot publicly acknowledged the errors of the PureTech engine, which caused serious failures in hundreds of thousands of cars, and introduced the new Turbo 100 as a definitive solution, a 1.2 turbo tested for over 3 million kilometers that replaces the faulty belt with a more durable chain.
This configuration aims to satisfy drivers who value mechanical simplicity and low maintenance costs while maintaining the reliability standard already known in Toyota models.
Connectivity and Comfort Inside the Starlet Cross
Inside, the Toyota Starlet Cross impresses with refined finishes and high connectivity. The model comes with:
- 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Colored digital display and head-up display
- Wireless charger and three USB ports
- Sound system with 6 speakers
- Leather multifunction steering wheel and automatic climate control
The set is complemented by fabric seats, a three-tone dashboard, and excellent ergonomics for everyday use.
Robust Design and Complete Safety Package

Externally, the Toyota Starlet Cross features an adventurous style, with LED headlights and taillights, chrome grille, roof spoiler, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The front and rear protections enhance its urban appeal with an off-road touch.
The model also strongly focuses on safety:
- Six airbags, including side and curtain airbags
- ABS brakes with EBD, stability control, and hill start assist
- ISOFIX mounts, rear sensors, and 360° camera
These features place the Starlet Cross in a competitive position among entry-level compact SUVs, even against more expensive rivals.
Where Is the Toyota Model Sold?
The Toyota Starlet Cross is primarily aimed at emerging markets, with an initial focus on Africa. The model was launched in South Africa, where Toyota has a strong and established operation, and is expected to be offered in other countries on the African continent in the coming months.
The Starlet Cross shares its platform and several components with the Suzuki Fronx, a result of the global partnership between Toyota and Suzuki, which facilitates production and adaptation to different developing markets.
So far, there is no official confirmation of the Toyota Starlet Cross being sold in Brazil or in any Latin American countries, but depending on the acceptance and demand in the markets where it debuts, it is possible that Toyota may consider bringing it to other regions.

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