Kelly Fisher reckons the easygoing Starlet is ‘just right’
Small SUVs have a way of grabbing attention. They give you that elevated stance, a bit of rugged flair, and just enough practicality to make everyday life easier. The Toyota Starlet Cross leans into that formula perfectly. It’s got the modern, urban-friendly appeal of a hatchback wrapped up in an SUV-inspired body that looks just the right amount of tough. And based on the reactions from my 20-something colleagues, it’s a bit of a head-turner among younger drivers.
Style that stands out
The Starlet Cross gets its own identity, with a bold grille, striking LED headlights, and stylish 16-inch alloy wheels that give it real presence on the road. It’s slightly raised compared to the standard Starlet, giving it a more confident stance without going full off-roader. The chunky bumpers and silver skid plates add to the crossover aesthetic, and it all comes together in a way that makes sense for young drivers who want something cool but not over the top.
A cabin that feels modern and sorted
Inside, the Starlet Cross balances practicality with a polished, professional feel. The XR model comes with a slick 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—always a win. The layout is clean, with a nice mix of materials that don’t feel cheap, and the seats are comfortable enough for long drives. Toyota has also packed in plenty of useful features, including keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, and a decent amount of storage. It’s the kind of cabin that feels fuss-free but well thought out—exactly what you want in a daily driver.
Effortless to drive
Under the bonnet, you get a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, pushing out 77 kW and 138 Nm. It won’t set the world on fire, but it doesn’t need to. Around town, the Starlet Cross feels nimble and easy to manoeuvre, making traffic and tight parking spots a breeze. The engine does rev a little high at times, but it never feels intrusive or strained. Whether you’re cruising through the city or heading out on a weekend road trip, the drive is smooth, predictable, and—most importantly—stress-free.
Good value, no fuss
With prices starting at R299,900 for the base model and going up to R368,500 for the range-topping XR AT, the Starlet Cross slots into a competitive space. But it holds its own by offering a solid blend of practicality, style, and decent spec levels without overcomplicating things. If you want a crossover that looks good, drives well, and doesn’t try too hard to be something it’s not, this one’s got your name on it.
