Does a Toyota Starlet have a turbo?
The turbo-equipped Starlet exists, but only on the high-performance GT Turbo variants from the late 1980s; most Starlets were naturally aspirated.
In this article, we explain which Starlet generations offered turbo, the engines used, how to identify them, and what that means for current and prospective buyers.
Turbo Starlet history
During the late 1980s, Toyota introduced the Starlet GT Turbo, a performance-oriented variant that added forced induction to the subcompact lineup. These models used a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine and were equipped with features such as intercooling to boost power relative to the standard Starlet lineup. The GT Turbo was offered in selected markets and had variations in drive layout (front-wheel drive and, in some markets, a four-wheel-drive option) depending on regional specifications.
Below is a concise overview of the key points about turbo Starlets to help distinguish them from the regular, naturally aspirated models.
- The Starlet GT Turbo variants (introduced in the late 1980s) used a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine (Toyota 4E-FTE) with intercooling to deliver higher performance than standard Starlets.
In summary, the turbocharged Starlet is a historical option that represents a bright spot in the model’s late-1980s era. Modern Starlets, by contrast, do not include turbocharged variants as part of the mainstream lineup.
How to identify a turbo Starlet
There are several telltale signs to confirm a Starlet is the turbocharged GT Turbo version rather than a standard NA model.
- Badging on the rear hatch or sides that reads GT Turbo or Turbo.
- Engine code or service records listing a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine (4E-FTE).
- Intercooler visible in the engine bay or front-mounted intercooler setup typical of turbo applications.
- Distinctive styling cues, such as wider wheels or slightly revised bumpers, that were common on performance variants.
Always verify with the vehicle’s VIN and engine code in manuals or a trusted mechanic, as some cosmetic cues can be aftermarket or misapplied.
Modern Starlets and turbo status
As of 2024–2025, there is no mass-produced turbo Starlet in Toyota’s current lineup. In many markets, the Starlet badge has reappeared on variants that are essentially rebadged versions of the Yaris or other small hatchbacks, which do not include turbo options. If a turbo remains a priority, buyers typically look to the classic GT Turbo models from the late 1980s and early 1990s, while recognizing the maintenance and parts challenges that come with aging performance cars.
For those exploring a modern Toyota with turbo capability, the automaker’s broader performance lineup includes turbocharged models outside the Starlet badge (such as the Yaris GR), but these are separate from the Starlet lineage.
Summary
Key takeaways: The Toyota Starlet did have turbocharged versions, specifically the late-1980s GT Turbo models powered by a 1.3-liter turbo engine (4E-FTE). Most Starlets were naturally aspirated. In today’s market, there is no new turbo Starlet; if you want turbo performance in this nameplate’s lineage, you’re looking at well-preserved GT Turbo examples or alternative Toyota performance models outside the Starlet badge.
