Toyota Starlet Cross Revealed - More Powerful Than Taisor

Toyota has launched the Starlet Cross sub-4 meter crossover in South Africa. It is basically the re-badged version of the Urban Cruiser Taisor on sale in India. The Starlet Cross looks largely identical to the India-spec model; however, Toyota has made some key changes including a larger petrol engine. 

Toyota Starlet Cross Exterior

The crossover comes with Toyota's signature grille, which we have seen on the Innova Hycross. There is a chrome strip that connects both the LED daytime running lamps, while the LED headlights are placed on the lower bumper. It rides on newly styled 10-spoke alloy wheels, while the black plastic cladding all around the body gives it a rugged look. At the back, the crossover has connected LED tail-lamps. 

The Starlet Cross gets additional colour schemes including Fine Orange, Mystic Pearl White, Galaxy Blue, Shadow Grey, Premium Liquid Silver, Sonic Black Pearl and Luxe Red with Black roof. The Fine Orange and Premium Liquid Silver are offered with a dual-tone scheme. 

Starlet Cross Interior

It shares the cabin layout with the Urban Cruiser Taisor. However, the Starlet Cross gets a dual-tone black and brown dashboard with champagne gold inserts. In terms of features, the crossover gets a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android, and an automatic climate control. Other tech features include wireless phone charging, HUS (Heads-Up Display), keyless entry with push button start, cruise control and steering mounted audio controls. 

For safety and security, the Toyota Starlet Cross gets up to six airbags, ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic BrakeForce Distribution), a 360-degree surround view camera, rear parking sensors, and ESC (electronic stability control). 

Under The Bonnet?

The South African-spec Starlet Cross is powered by a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 105 PS and 138Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. 

The India-spec Taisor is offered with two engine options - a 1.2L NA petrol and a 1.0L turbo petrol. Transmission options are 5-speed manual, an AMT and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. 

Price

The Toyota Starlet Cross is priced between R 299,900 and R 359,300 (approx. Rs 13.69 lakh and Rs 16.4 lakh).