For those who miss the Toyota Starlet, you might be glad to know that it’s still around. That said, it’s not sold in Japan or in Southeast Asia. Instead, it lives on as a rebadged Suzuki Baleno in African markets.
Toyota revived the name in 2019 and has since been sold in two generations. In fact, there’s even a rally-spec model dubbed the GR Starlet, but it’s not available to the public.
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Now, the Starlet family has a new member as it gains a crossover version. Ladies and gentlemen, say hello to the Toyota Starlet Cross. Like its hatchback counterpart, it’s sold in the African market and is based on an existing Suzuki model.
The Toyota Starlet Cross owes itself to the Suzuki Fronx, a subcompact crossover primarily aimed at the South Asian and Middle Eastern markets. Recently, however, the Fronx made its debut in Japan as well.
Mind you, it’s not a total rebadge as there are some differences between the Starlet Cross and Fronx. For starters, the grille has been changed for the Toyota version, as well as the front bumper. While the headlights are the same, the LED daytime running light patters are unique. The rest of the Starlet’s body is unchanged from the Fronx.
The badge engineering is more obvious inside. As far as we can tell, there are no major changed between the Toyota and Suzuki models. Only the Toyota badge on the horn pad marks this as the Starlet Cross. All models do get a touchscreen display audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trim levels get leather and additional exterior cameras.
Its engine should be familiar to Ertiga and XL7 owners. It’s the same 1.5-liter mill that makes 103hp and 138Nm of torque. There is no mention if it’s paired with a mild-hybrid system. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.
