The sub-compact SUV market in South Africa is fiercely competitive, and with the Toyota Starlet Cross XR Manual, Toyota has made a compelling case for itself. After a few months behind the wheel, it’s clear that this vehicle offers a balanced blend of practicality, style, and value.
Much has been made of the collaboration between Toyota and Suzuki to bring cars such as the Starlet/Baleno, and Fronx/Starlet Cross to local shores. While we cannot escape the realities of economies of scale that have brought us to this point, we believe it is time to see these same-but-different cars for what they offer as a standalone choice rather than hyper-focusing on which is the “better” option.
To do this, we spent two months living with the Starlet Cross XR Manual to get acquainted with the little Japanese runabout.
SHE’S A LOOKER
The Starlet Cross builds on the foundation of the Starlet hatchback but brings a rugged edge that makes it more versatile. Unlike the standard Starlet, the Cross version has SUV-inspired design elements, including a raised ride height of 170 mm. This added ground clearance makes the Starlet Cross better suited for rough urban roads or even light gravel paths, enhancing its everyday usability.
The bold front grille with chrome accents, LED headlamps, and sleek connected taillights give the vehicle a modern look that will turn heads.
Its practicality is another strong point, with a 304-litre boot that offers plenty of space for family road trips or everyday errands. The black roof option available on the XR model adds a touch of sportiness to the vehicle, making it stand out among its peers.
Inside, the Starlet Cross blends comfort with functionality. The dashboard is finished in a tasteful three-tone combination of charcoal, silver, and Bordeaux, elevating the cabin’s feel. The cloth seats – although well-cushioned enough for long drives – could do with more lateral support, although seat adjustability is great, and the overall cabin layout is user-friendly. The XR model, in particular, is packed with tech features like a heads-up display, wireless charging, a panoramic view monitor, and a reverse camera, making it feel more premium than its price tag suggests.
Other premium features include a 9” infotainment screen (XS models make do with a 7” screen) that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad ensuring your smartphone stays charged up without overheating. The automatic air conditioning system is easy to operate, with simple buttons that are intuitive and functional. Rear air vents ensure that passengers in the back remain comfortable during long journeys.
ON THE ROAD
Our Starlet Cross spent most of its time shuttling between shops, school and home. However, the occasional longer trip also allowed us to sample the (standard across the range) 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, producing 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque. The engine became increasingly supple over two months of use as we racked up nearly 1,300 kilometres, never faltering on its eagerness to perform.
Although the Starlet Cross XR is also available in automatic, we found the five-speed manual gearbox adds a layer of engagement that makes driving more enjoyable, with slick and precise gear changes. The Starlet Cross may not be a performance powerhouse, but its engine provides enough power to handle most everyday driving scenarios.
Fuel efficiency is one of the vehicle’s standout features. Toyota claims a combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100 km for the manual version, and over time, the real-world figures have stayed within a similar range, never exceeding 6.3 l/100 km. This efficiency level is impressive, particularly given the cost of fuel. On highways, suburban roads, and even light gravel paths, the Starlet Cross remained composed, handling a variety of surfaces with confidence.
Despite its SUV status, the Starlet Cross doesn’t have vast off-road capabilities, yet the slightly raised ride height gives you peace of mind when driving and, crucially for an urban-bound runabout, parking, making it a versatile option for diverse driving conditions across the country.
ALL ABOUT THE VALUE
At this end of the market, “bang for buck” separates the successful from the less so. The Toyota Starlet Cross XR Manual is set apart from its competitors in the value it offers.
At a starting price of R339,300 for the XR manual, it competes favourably with other vehicles in the subcompact crossover segment. The Suzuki Fronx, Renault Kiger, and Hyundai Exter are key competitors, but the Starlet Cross holds its ground by offering a solid mix of features, design, and Toyota’s renowned reliability.
The Starlet Cross also comes with a comprehensive safety package. The XR model is equipped with six airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, and Hill Assist Control, ensuring that driver and passenger safety is a priority. Including these features at this price point makes the Starlet Cross an attractive option for families or individuals looking for a safe and reliable vehicle.
Finally, we come to one of the most compelling reasons for considering the Starlet Cross versus its competitors. Toyota’s extensive dealership network is the largest in the country, reaching across South Africa and several neighbouring countries. Also, the Starlet Cross is sold with a four-services/60,000 km service plan and a three-year/100,000 km warranty, which means you can expect low maintenance costs and excellent after-sales support. This is a significant advantage, especially in a market where vehicle maintenance costs can be a concern.
WHAT’S THE COMPETITION DOING?
In a highly competitive segment, the Starlet Cross offers excellent value. While the Suzuki Fronx shares much of its platform and engineering, the Starlet Cross provides a slightly richer feature set, particularly in the XR guise. The Renault Kiger, while offering a turbocharged option, falls short in interior space and standard features compared to the Starlet Cross.
The combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and Toyota’s trusted reputation makes the Starlet Cross a strong contender in the subcompact crossover segment. It balances urban practicality and light adventure capability, appealing to a broad audience in the South African market.
LAST WORD
The Toyota Starlet Cross XR is an excellent option for drivers seeking a well-rounded, feature-packed compact SUV, even in manual guise. Yes, the automatic option will appeal to buyers who value ease of use over a racier driving experience, but regardless of your choice, a comfortable drive is assured.
The Starlet Cross does what it promises: offering practicality, style, and value, all wrapped in an SUV-inspired package that suits the diverse needs of South African drivers.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA