Toyota Taisor Launched in South Africa With A New Name and Bigger 1.5-litre NA Petrol Engine

The Toyota Taisor, a rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, is now available in South Africa with a different name – Starlet Cross. The South African model's design is similar to the India-spec Taisor, except for a few extra colour options. The interior is also the same, aside from the cabin theme. While the two models are alike in design and practicality, their engines mark a stark point of differentiation. Compared to its Indian sibling, the Starlet Cross has a 1.5-litre NA petrol engine. Continue reading for more in-depth information.

Toyota Taisor/Starlet Cross: Appearance

The model has Toyota's distinctive grille, two LED daytime running lamps joined by a chrome strip, and LED headlights located on the lower bumper. Its all-black plastic cladding gives it a tough appearance,  and the connected LED taillights at the back complete the look. The Starlet Cross has multiple colour options: Galaxy Blue, Shadow Grey, Premium Liquid Silver, Fine Orange, Mystic Pearl White, Sonic Black Pearl, and Luxe Red with a black roof. The Fine Orange and Premium Liquid Silver are available in a two-tone pattern. In comparison to the India-spec Taisor, the model gets two new shades: black and blue. 

Also Read: Toyota Taisor MPV Waiting Period Goes Down to 4 Weeks in India

Toyota Taisor/Starlet Cross: Interior

The cabin themes of the models are different, although their dashboard design is the same. The Starlet Cross's interior is all brown, but the India-spec version has a black and maroon cabin. The models are equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, auto air conditioning, push-button start/stop, a heads-up display, a 9-inch touchscreen, and wireless phone charging. They also have rear parking sensors, electronic stability control (ESC), a 360-degree camera, and up to six airbags for safety.

Toyota Taisor/Starlet Cross: Powertrain

The engine is the primary distinction between the Taisor and the Starlet Cross. The latter is outfitted with a bigger 1.5-liter normally aspirated petrol engine that produces 104bhp and 138Nm. It can be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. In contrast, the India-spec Taisor comes with two engine options: 1.2-litre naturally aspirated (89bhp/113Nm) and a 1-litre turbo-petrol (99bhp/148Nm). The gearbox options include a five-speed AMT, a five-speed manual, and a six-speed torque converter automatic. A CNG variant (76.44bhp and 98.5Nm) is also on offer.

Also Read: Toyota Taisor Interior and Exterior Accessories Prices Explained

Toyota Taisor/Starlet Cross: Price

In India, the Taisor is priced between Rs Rs 7.74 lakh and Rs 13.04 lakh (both, ex-showroom). The South Africa-spec model, on the other hand, costs between R 299,900 and R 359,300 (about Rs 13.69 lakh and Rs 16.4 lakh).