Von Wiedergeburten und Namensvettern: Ein Blick auf Toyotas internationale Modellvielfalt

Toyota Revives Iconic Names for Different Models in Global Markets

In countries like Brazil, South Africa, and India, Toyota is rolling out vehicles that carry familiar names but are distinct from their original versions. The iconic Starlet has made a comeback, yet it's not the same model that once graced the European streets during the 80s and 90s. This new Starlet is designed for the Indian and South African markets and bears no resemblance to its classic predecessor. Additionally, the Yaris Cross in Brazil shares only its name with the version known in other markets, diverging completely in design and features.

Toyota has expanded its extensive global lineup of SUVs with an intriguing addition: the Starlet Cross. Launched this week in South Africa, with plans to release it in other emerging markets, the Starlet Cross is a result of a rebadging approach and is essentially a rebadged Suzuki Fronx. In South Africa, it's being marketed as the most affordable SUV from Toyota, positioned below the Urban Cruiser and the Corolla Cross.

Toyota Starlet Cross – South Africa

The Starlet Cross is manufactured in India and was launched in April as the Taisor. Similar to the Fronx, this vehicle is a crossover based on a compact hatchback sedan – specifically, the Baleno. The Baleno also has a twin model for Toyota, known simply as the Starlet, which was released under a strategic partnership with Suzuki. Does that make sense?

Additional bizarre items:

Reflecting on the dimensions of the Starlet Cross, it measures a length of 3,995 millimeters, stands at a height of 1,550 millimeters, and spans a width of 1,765 millimeters. Beneath the hood, the 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine delivers a power output of 105 horsepower. It pairs with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a choice of a 4-speed automatic. The vehicle is configured with front-wheel drive across all models.

India offers additional models of the Starlet, including a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 100 horsepower and a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine with 90 horsepower. Depending on the model, the transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.

Toyota Starlet Cross Debuts in South Africa

The features include either a 7 or 9-inch infotainment screen, USB ports, a wireless charging pad for smartphones, up to six airbags (with only two in the standard model), air conditioning, LED daytime running lights, among others.

Here's a look at the familiar Toyota Starlet for comparison:

Photo Gallery: Toyota Starlet (1978-1999)

What's the situation in Brazil?

The Starlet will not make its way to Brazil. The reason: Toyota plans to offer a different vehicle in the region, the Yaris Cross, positioning it just below the Corolla Cross in their lineup. However, this well-known name adorns a vehicle that is unrelated to the popular model we know.

The vehicle model in question is currently available on the Asian market, with dimensions of 4,310 millimeters long, 1,770 millimeters wide, 1,615 millimeters tall, and a wheelbase of 2,620 millimeters. Its primary mechanical distinction is the hybrid-flex powertrain, which is expected to launch in early 2025.

Toyota's Compact SUV, Yaris

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