The Toyota Starlet Sixth Generation (XP210) is a compact hatchback that has gained popularity in markets like New Zealand for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and reliability. It combines Toyota’s dependable engineering with a lightweight platform derived from the Suzuki Baleno, resulting in a city-friendly car that is easy to drive and maintain.The Starlet’s design is modern and clean, with sleek lines, a bold front grille, and a compact footprint that makes parking and maneuvering in urban areas effortless. Inside, the cabin emphasizes practicality and comfort, offering a well-laid-out dashboard, user-friendly infotainment, and ample storage for its class.

Under the hood, the Starlet comes with 1.4L and 1.5L petrol engines, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, providing a balance of efficiency and adequate performance for daily driving. Its suspension and steering setup are tuned for smooth city travel, though it remains composed on longer trips or highways.

Despite its many advantages, the Starlet competes in a crowded segment with rivals like the Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris, and Mazda2, each offering slightly different blends of performance, features, and cabin space. For buyers prioritizing low running costs, reliability, and urban practicality, the XP210 Starlet remains a strong contender in the compact hatchback market.

For buyers considering the Toyota Starlet, we’ve prepared a dedicated Buyer’s Guide covering what to check before purchasing a used unit, common issues, and which trims offer the best long-term value. Click here to access the Buyer’s Guide.

Engine Options

The 2024 Toyota Starlet comes with two engine options:

1. 1.4 L Inline-4 Petrol

2. 1.5 L Dual VVT-i Inline-4 Petrol

Transmission Options

The 2024 Toyota Starlet engines are linked to:

• 5-speed manual

• 4-speed automatic

2024 Toyota Starlet Grades

• Starlet Xi

• Starlet Xs

• Starlet XR

• Starlet XR+

For a detailed review of these grades and guidance on the best pick while buying this vehicle, kindly refer to the 2024 Toyota Starlet Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Toyota Starlet Interior

The 2024 Toyota Starlet interior blends practicality, comfort, and modern simplicity. The driver-focused dashboard ensures intuitive control of all essential functions. Front seats are supportive and provide adequate legroom and headroom, while the rear bench accommodates passengers comfortably for city commutes or short trips.

The cabin features multiple storage options, including a center console, door pockets, glove box, and cupholders in both rows, enhancing everyday practicality.

Higher trims include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 12-volt power outlet, offering convenience and connectivity for all occupants.

Visibility is excellent thanks to a compact bonnet and well-positioned seating, while the cabin is well-insulated to minimize road and wind noise, making the Starlet a relaxed city car.

2024 Toyota Starlet Exterior

The 2024 Starlet adopts a modern and clean design with subtle character lines that give it a sleek, urban-friendly stance. At the front, the bold grille and angular headlamps create a distinctive look, complemented by integrated fog lights on higher trims.

Its compact dimensions, slightly sloping roofline, and aerodynamic shape improve maneuverability while enhancing fuel efficiency. Alloy wheels (size varies by trim) add visual appeal, while a roof spoiler on top trims boosts sportiness.

At the rear, well-proportioned LED taillights and a simple bumper design maintain a harmonious, modern aesthetic. The Starlet is offered in a variety of exterior paint colors to suit diverse tastes, making it versatile for urban drivers looking for style and practicality.

2024 Toyota Starlet Carrying Capacity / Cargo Capacity

The 2024 Toyota Starlet has a cargo capacity of 215 liters, with rear seats that can be folded flat to increase storage space for larger items.

2024 Toyota Starlet Fuel Consumption

• 1.4 L Inline-4 Petrol: Approximately 18–19 km/l

• 1.5 L Dual VVT-i Petrol: Approximately 17–18 km/l

2024 Toyota Starlet Fuel Tank Capacity

The Starlet comes with a 37-liter fuel tank, suitable for city commuting and moderate highway travel.

2024 Toyota Starlet Ground Clearance

The Starlet offers 160 mm (6.3 inches) ground clearance, making it capable of handling uneven urban roads and light obstacles comfortably.

2024 Toyota Starlet Performance

The Starlet is powered by either a 1.4 L or 1.5 L petrol engine delivering smooth and efficient performance suitable for city and suburban driving. The engines provide responsive acceleration and a relaxed driving experience while keeping fuel consumption low.

• Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

• Steering: Light and responsive, ideal for tight urban streets

• Suspension: Tuned to balance comfort and stability, absorbing bumps effectively with minimal body roll

The Starlet also includes standard safety and driver-assist features on higher trims, such as lane departure alert, pre-collision system, and traction control, enhancing both confidence and convenience for daily commuting.

2024 Toyota Starlet Reliability

The Toyota Starlet has a reputation for dependable performance and long-term durability. Thanks to Toyota’s proven engineering and the simple, reliable 1.4 L and 1.5 L petrol engines, the Starlet can withstand diverse driving conditions with minimal issues. Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to keep the car in optimal condition and ensure longevity.

2024 Toyota Starlet Maintenance Schedule

• Every 5,000 km: Engine oil and filter change, basic inspection of brakes, tires, and fluid levels

• Every 10,000 km: Air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs, brake pads, coolant, and transmission fluid inspection/replacement as needed

For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, refer to the 2024 Toyota Starlet Owner’s Manual.

2024 Toyota Starlet Competitors

• Suzuki Swift

• Toyota Yaris

• Mazda2

• Honda Fit / Jazz

• Hyundai Accent

• Kia Rio

• Ford Fiesta

• Nissan March

For buyers considering the Toyota Starlet, we’ve prepared a dedicated Buyer’s Guide covering what to check before purchasing a used unit, common issues, and which trims offer the best long-term value. Click here to access the Buyer’s Guide.