Does Toyota Starlet have automatic transmission?
Yes—across its history, the Toyota Starlet has been offered with automatic transmissions in addition to manual gearboxes, though availability depends on the model year and market. If you’re evaluating a specific Starlet, verify the exact transmission listed in the documentation or on the vehicle itself.
The Starlet name has appeared on several generations since the 1970s, with regional variants and different gearbox options. While automatics were commonly available in many markets, not every Starlet trim or year offered an automatic. The details below outline how transmission choices varied and how to confirm the gearbox for a given car.
Transmission options across Starlet generations
Note: exact specs vary by market and year. The following provides a general look at how automatics and manuals appeared in commonly sold Starlet variants.
- Automatic transmissions: most Starlets were offered with an automatic option, typically a 3- or 4-speed unit, alongside manual gearboxes in many markets.
- Manual transmissions: a wide range of Starlets used manual gearboxes, often 4- or 5-speed, depending on trim and region.
In summary, automatic transmission has been available for many Starlet models, but the exact configuration depends on the specific year and market. Always verify the transmission type for the exact vehicle you are considering.
Current status of the Starlet name
Today, Toyota does not market a global new Starlet model in its mainstream lineup. The Starlet name is largely historical in many regions, with the company favoring other small hatchbacks such as the Yaris (also known as Vitz in some markets). In practice, if you are looking at a Starlet today, you are most likely evaluating a used or regional variant from previous generations, where the transmission could be either manual or automatic depending on where and when it was sold.
How to verify the transmission on a used Starlet
To ensure you know the exact gearbox of a used Starlet you’re considering, use these checks and documentation sources.
- Inspect the shift mechanism: a manual will have a clutch pedal and a distinct manual shifter; an automatic will lack a clutch pedal and show PRNDL indicators on the shifter.
- Check the window sticker, owner's manual, or showroom brochure for the listed transmission type.
- Review the vehicle’s service history or build sheet (VIN-derived data can reveal the original transmission option).
- Take a test drive to observe shifting behavior, including any slipping, hard shifts, or hesitation, which can indicate transmission condition or a non-original unit.
These steps help you confirm whether a particular Starlet has an automatic transmission and assess its current condition before purchase.
Summary
The Toyota Starlet has historically been offered with both automatic and manual transmissions, with availability varying by year and market. While the name is not widely used for a new, global model today, many older Starlets—especially in used-car markets—come with either a 3- or 4-speed automatic or a manual gearbox (typically 4- or 5-speed). Always verify the transmission type on the specific vehicle you’re considering and consult official documentation or the seller for confirmation.
