It has been two years since the Toyota Starlet was launched in South Africa and after an impressive run of sales, attention turns to its facelifted version. Here’s what you can expect from the Toyota Starlet facelift.

In case you were not aware, the Toyota Starlet is in fact a rebadged Suzuki Baleno. While the latter has been on sale for a period much longer than its Toyota equivalent, the power of the Toyota badge has shown its value as the Starlet effortlessly outsells its sibling.

Our teaser image shows a slightly updated front end, complete with the new-look headlights and bumper arrangement. The biggest changes we think we’ll see will be in the cabin and the rear of the vehicle.

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The Toyota Starlet launched in South Africa in September 2020 and was earmarked as the replacement for the ageing Toyota Etios. Available in a 5-model lineup with one engine and two gearbox options across the range, the Toyota Starlet became an instant sales success.

Now attention turns to the facelifted model. We know the Suzuki Baleno is due for a facelift, with the brand’s Indian division Maruti sharing teaser images in February 2022. This follows from a leak late in November 2021, showing the Baleno with a revised front end and new-look rear tail lights. Suzuki South Africa has confirmed this model is under consideration for our market.

Over in India, Maruti Suzuki’s teasers have shown a darkened car, with only the new-look daytime running lights illuminated. The vehicle is said to receive a heads-up display which is a first for the segment and a new-look infotainment system that Toyota and Suzuki have worked on together. We’ll know soon enough, as the Maruti Suzuki Baleno reveal is imminent.

We estimate the Suzuki Baleno’s powertrain options will be carried over and while the Indian market gets a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, the SA models should continue with the 1.4-litre motor which offers up credible performance with its 68 kW and 130 Nm.

When will the Toyota Starlet facelift go on sale in SA?

We estimate this model will be arriving in SA showrooms before the end of 2022.

Further Reading

Find a new or used Toyota Starlet for sale here

Toyota Starlet Review