When did Toyota stop making the Starlet?
Toyota, the renowned Japanese automaker, has officially discontinued the production of its iconic Starlet model. The Starlet, a compact hatchback that had been a staple in Toyota's lineup for decades, was phased out in the early 2000s as the company shifted its focus to other models that better aligned with changing consumer preferences.
The Rise and Fall of the Toyota Starlet
The Toyota Starlet first debuted in 1973 and quickly gained a loyal following for its reliable performance, fuel efficiency, and affordable price tag. The Starlet was particularly popular in markets where small, economical cars were in high demand, such as Europe and Asia. Over the years, the Starlet underwent several design iterations, with each generation offering improved features and capabilities.
However, as the automotive industry evolved, consumer tastes began to shift towards larger, more spacious vehicles, such as SUVs and crossovers. The Starlet, with its compact size and limited cargo space, struggled to keep up with these changing market trends. Additionally, stricter emissions regulations and the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles put pressure on Toyota to focus its resources on developing more environmentally-friendly models.
The Decision to Discontinue the Starlet
In the early 2000s, Toyota made the strategic decision to phase out the Starlet in favor of other models that better aligned with the company's long-term goals. The Yaris, a slightly larger and more versatile hatchback, was introduced as the Starlet's successor and quickly became a popular choice among Toyota's customer base.
The discontinuation of the Starlet was a bittersweet moment for many loyal Toyota enthusiasts, who had grown to love the car's distinctive design and reliable performance. However, the company's decision to focus on more contemporary and fuel-efficient models was a necessary step in maintaining its position as a leading global automaker.
The Legacy of the Toyota Starlet
Despite its discontinuation, the Toyota Starlet remains an iconic model in the company's history. The Starlet's reputation for reliability, affordability, and practicality has cemented its place in the hearts of many automotive enthusiasts. While the Starlet may no longer be in production, its legacy continues to inspire Toyota's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative vehicles that meet the evolving needs of its customers.
What replaced 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 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.
Was the Toyota Starlet sold in the US?
After the Starlet left American showrooms in 1984, American buyers were left with the front-wheel drive Corolla FX16 to occupy Toyota's place in the subcompact niche instead.
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?
If everything goes as planned, then the Toyota Starlet might be in line for a 2026 unveiling. Moreover, a rallying version is said to be in the works, too, taking on the WRC Rally 4 category for 2WD vehicles.
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.
Is the Toyota Starlet a reliable car?
Since its inception in 2018, the engine has proven itself to be robust and efficient, with very few reports of reliability issues. Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission sends 77kW and 138Nm to the front wheels in the Starlet Cross.
How much is a 2024 Toyota Starlet?
While the Fronx line-up comprises 4 derivatives (in mid-tier GL and flagship GLX trim grades) and has pricing bookends of R297 900 and R354 900; the Suzuki's non-identical Starlet Cross twin also has 4 variants – in XS and XR trim grades – and prices at R299 900 and ends at R359 300 (late July 2024).
What car replaced 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 replaced 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.
