Toyota Starlet XR Test Review

The modern motoring world is all about costs and economies of scale. Even the world’s largest manufacturers are affected and this has been seen in recent years by the growth of ever larger groups encompassing numerous brands and marques.

Another route has been co-operation between brands in the research and development of new platforms and technology. Recently, Toyota and Suzuki entered into such an agreement and, in South Africa, the first fruits have just been harvested.

With the end of production of the Etios model, Toyota SA needed a replacement to contend in the value or budget segment of the market. Enter the Baleno from Suzuki, a B-segment contender that has been patently undermarketed in SA to date.

Toyota have taken this model and made very few changes to a vehicle that I have always rated very highly. A new Toyota corporate grill and badges on the outside and very different functionality on the infotainment screen inside are the main changes.

Unchanged are the underpinnings, starting with the lightweight and strong platform that provides space, strength and economy. The 1.4 L 4 cylinder petrol engine provides 68kW and 130Nm of torque to the front wheels through a slick and light 5 speed manual gearbox. ( A 4 speed automatic option is also available).

Another benefit that Toyota inherit with this model is the renowned exceptional fuel economy. The Starlet set a new record on our fuel route returning an incredible 4.59L/ 100km. After the full test period involving urban and general use, the overall figure was exactly 5.0l/100km. Most owners should be able to achieve similar figures without too much effort.

The top specification model tested includes the full infotainment system with the My Toyota app that gives a wi-fi hotspot and Toyota give you 15gig of data on purchase. This allows full connectivity and screen mirroring through Apple Carplay or android auto. The screen also provides a reversing camera.

6 Airbags, ABS and ESP are among the safety features plus LED headlights and 15 inch alloy wheels.

The Starlet range is available from just over R200 000 with the XR as tested retailing at R258 300. This includes the standard service plan offering 3 services or 45 000km.
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Видео Toyota Starlet XR Test Review канала MotorMatters