What replaced Toyota Starlet?
The Toyota Starlet, a beloved compact car known for its reliability and efficiency, was a staple in Toyota's lineup for decades. However, like many vehicles, it eventually reached the end of its production cycle. In this article, we’ll explore what replaced the Toyota Starlet and how its successor carried forward its legacy.
The End of the Toyota Starlet
The Toyota Starlet was produced from 1973 to 1999, earning a reputation as a dependable and affordable small car. It was particularly popular in markets where compact vehicles were in high demand. However, as automotive trends evolved, Toyota decided to discontinue the Starlet and introduce a new model that would better align with modern consumer preferences.
The Toyota Yaris: The Starlet's Successor
In 1999, the Toyota Yaris was introduced as the official replacement for the Toyota Starlet. The Yaris was designed to appeal to a broader audience, offering updated styling, improved safety features, and enhanced fuel efficiency. It quickly became a global success and remains a key player in Toyota's lineup to this day.
Why the Yaris Was a Worthy Replacement
The Toyota Yaris built upon the strengths of the Starlet while introducing new features that catered to the needs of modern drivers. Here are some reasons why the Yaris was a worthy successor:
- Modern Design: The Yaris featured a more contemporary and aerodynamic design compared to the Starlet, making it more appealing to younger buyers.
- Improved Safety: With advancements in automotive safety, the Yaris came equipped with features like airbags, ABS, and better crash protection.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Yaris continued the Starlet's tradition of excellent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.
- Global Appeal: The Yaris was marketed globally, with variations tailored to different regions, ensuring its success in diverse markets.
The Legacy of the Toyota Starlet
Although the Toyota Starlet is no longer in production, its legacy lives on through the Yaris and other compact cars in Toyota's lineup. The Starlet set the foundation for Toyota's success in the small car segment, and its influence can still be seen in the design and engineering of modern Toyota vehicles.
For car enthusiasts and those who owned a Starlet, it remains a nostalgic reminder of Toyota's commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you’re a fan of the Starlet or its successor, the Yaris, both vehicles represent Toyota's dedication to meeting the needs of drivers around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicle is Toyota bringing back?
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (August 1, 2023) – Legends never die. Toyota's off-road icon and longest-running nameplate is making a triumphant comeback to North America for the 2024 model year, returning to its rugged origin.
What happened to the Toyota Starlet?
The Toyota Starlet made its return in 2020 after a long absence from the market. It was previously discontinued in the 1990s. This modern model is based on the Suzuki Baleno which Toyota rebadged and reintroduced as the Starlet.
What is the US equivalent of the Toyota Starlet?
The Starlet was briefly exported to North America from 1981 to 1984. In 1999, the Starlet was replaced by the Vitz—sold as the Echo or Yaris in international markets—and the bB mini MPV, which was later sold as the Scion xB in Canada and the United States and as the Daihatsu Materia in Europe.
What is the other name for the Toyota Starlet?
In 1999, the Starlet was replaced by the Vitz in Japan (it was sold as the Yaris locally and in most international markets) and the nameplate disappeared for two decades before it was revived in 2020, now appearing on the Toyota derivative of the Suzuki-developed Baleno hatchback (known in India as the Toyota Glanza).
What is the number one Starlet competitor?
The Baleno-based Toyota Starlet might outsell its Suzuki equivalent, but there's ultimately not much that sets these 2 products apart . Like the Baleno, the Starlet is attractively priced and is a practical choice in this segment. There's a reason so many Starlets are out on the roads…
Why was Toyota Etios discontinued?
Since Toyota had no interest to upgrade the Etios to meet the updated emissions standards, it was replaced by the more upmarket XP150 series Yaris saloon and the Suzuki Baleno-based Glanza hatchback as Toyota's subcompact car offering in the country.
Was Toyota Starlet sold in the USA?
The 3-door KP61 was the only Starlet ever sold in the US, where it was available from the 1981 through the 1984 model years.
What Toyota is getting discontinued?
Toyota Venza
Toyota is discontinuing production of the Venza for the U.S. market after the 2024 model year. The automaker “remains committed to the premium crossover SUV segment and has replaced the model with the first-ever 2025 Toyota Crown Signia,” according to a statement from the company.
Is Toyota bringing back the Starlet?
The Toyota Starlet is set to make a comeback as a rally-bred FWD hot hatch. It's rumored to use Yaris underpinnings but with a more compact footprint. A turbocharged 1.3-liter engine could deliver around 150 hp in its road-going version.
What car is similar to a Toyota Starlet?
The Fronx has the exact same engine as the Starlet Cross: the Suzuki K15B engine, renowned for its reliability and fuel efficiency. This unit makes 77kW and 138Nm torque and sends power to the front wheels through a slick-shifting 5-speed manual gearbox.
