Toyota’s Taisor Gets a South African Cousin
The Toyota Taisor, a sub-4-meter crossover recently launched in India, has arrived on South African shores! But with a twist – it goes by a different name and boasts a distinct powertrain option. Buckle up as we delve into the world of the all-new Toyota Starlet Cross, exploring its design similarities and key differences compared to its Indian counterpart, the Toyota Taisor.
Starlet Cross vs. Taisor: A Tale of Two Crossovers
While both vehicles share the same Maruti Fronx platform and a striking design language, there are some notable distinctions to consider:
A Familiar Face: Design Similarities
The Starlet Cross and Taisor are near-identical twins in terms of exterior design. Here’s what they share:
- Bold Lighting Signature: Both models boast striking LED daytime running lights (DRLs) positioned above the sleek, tri-pod headlights integrated into the bumper.
- Distinctive Grille: The signature Toyota grille design, reminiscent of the Toyota Rumion, adds a touch of brand identity.
- Connecting Chrome Strip: A chrome strip elegantly connects the LED DRLs, further enhancing the modern aesthetic.
- Rugged Appeal: Both vehicles sport 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, chunky body cladding for off-road readiness, and stylish connected LED tail lights at the rear.
A Splash of Color: Distinctive Paint Options
While the overall color palette is similar, the Starlet Cross offers two additional shades to cater to South African preferences:
- Black: An ever-popular choice, the black paint adds a touch of sophistication to the Starlet Cross.
- Blue: A vibrant and eye-catching option, the blue paint scheme injects personality into the crossover.
Stepping Inside: Cabin Comforts and Feature Breakdown
Despite the exterior similarities, the Starlet Cross and Taisor offer slightly different cabin experiences:
- Black and Brown Comfort: The Starlet Cross features a modern and sophisticated black and brown interior theme.
- Black and Maroon Contrast: The Taisor offers a more contrasting black and maroon interior design.
Packed with Tech and Convenience:
Both the Starlet Cross and Taisor come loaded with features to ensure a comfortable and connected driving experience:
- Large Touchscreen: A prominent 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD): (Optional) A heads-up display projects crucial information onto the windshield, minimizing driver distraction.
- Wireless Phone Charging: Keep your devices juiced up on the go with a convenient wireless charging pad.
- Automatic Climate Control: Maintain a comfortable cabin temperature with automatic climate control.
- Push-Button Start/Stop: Effortlessly start and stop the engine with a simple push of a button.
Prioritizing Safety:
Safety remains paramount for Toyota, reflected in the comprehensive safety features offered in both vehicles:
- Up to Six Airbags: Multiple airbags provide protection for occupants in case of a collision.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This technology helps maintain vehicle control during critical maneuvers.
- 360-Degree Camera (Optional): Gain a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings for enhanced parking and maneuvering capabilities.
- Rear Parking Sensors: These sensors provide audible warnings when approaching obstacles while reversing.
Powertrain Divergence: A Different Engine for South Africa
Perhaps the most significant difference between the Starlet Cross and Taisor lies under the hood:
- Starlet Cross: The South African variant gets a single 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine churning out 105 PS of power and 138 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox.
- Taisor: Indian buyers have the choice between two petrol engines: a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated unit (90 PS/113 Nm) and a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engine (100 PS/148 Nm). Additionally, an optional 1.2-liter CNG powertrain delivering 77 PS and 98.5 Nm is available mated to a manual gearbox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Starlet Cross the same car as the Toyota Taisor?
A: The Starlet Cross and Taisor share the same platform and most design elements. However, they have some key differences, including the cabin theme (color scheme) and, most importantly, the powertrain options available in each market.
Q: What engine options are available in the Starlet Cross?
A: Unlike the Taisor with its multiple engine choices, the Starlet Cross comes with a single 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine generating 105 PS of power and 138 Nm of torque.
Q: What features does the Starlet Cross offer?
A: The Starlet Cross boasts a feature-rich cabin, including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heads-up display (optional), wireless phone charging, automatic climate control, and push-button start/stop. Safety features include up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a 360-degree camera (optional), and rear parking sensors.
Q: What are the color options available for the Starlet Cross?
A: The Starlet Cross offers a wider color palette compared to the Taisor, including black, blue, Lucent Orange, Sportin Red (with dual-tone option), Cafe White (with dual-tone option), Enticing Silver (with dual-tone option), Gaming Grey, Fine Orange (with dual-tone option), Mystic Pearl White, Galaxy Blue, Shadow Grey, Premium Liquid Silver (with dual-tone option), Sonic Black Pearl, and Luxe Red with a black roof.
