Could Suzuki-based Toyota Starlet Cross work in PH?

Mention the name Starlet to Toyota enthusiasts and most will immediately think of a small yet fun-to-drive hatchback from yesteryear. Back before the Wigo became the brand's smallest offering, the humble Starlet used to be one of Toyota's most affordable vehicles.

Despite its exit from the Philippines, the Starlet is still kicking in other markets like South Africa where it's a staple on the roads. But if you think this Toyota is only available as a hatchback, the automaker has decided to make a crossover version that could make sense here should the automaker bring it here.

This is the 2024 Toyota Starlet Cross and boy is it a stylish-looking crossover. But wait a moment, doesn't the Starlet Cross look like another similarly-sized crossover? Believe it or not, the Starlet Cross is based on the Suzuki Fronx. That's right, just like the Baleno-based Starlet, the Starlet Cross is another result of the Toyota-Suzuki partnership which also gave birth to the Celerio-based Toyota Vitz and the Ertiga-based Toyota Rumion.

Starting with its design, Toyota decided to make some slight changes to its exterior. The Starlet Cross gets its own LED daytime running lights and a unique grille design. Toyota also decided to give the Fronx-based Starlet Cross its own LED lighting signatures for the taillights to make it stand out from its Suzuki twin. Last but not least, the crossover gets a sleek set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

Size-wise, the Starlet Cross measures 3995mm long, 1765mm wide, 1550mm tall, and has a 2520mm wheelbase. This gives it the same dimensions as the Suzuki Fronx including its 170mm ground clearance.

Step inside and the cabin gets the same look and finish as the Suzuki. However, it gets a Toyota badge on the steering wheel along with unique finishes and trim accents on the door panels, seats, and dashboard. Depending on the variant, the Starlet Cross can come with either a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other key features available in the Starlet Cross include; a 360-degree camera system, a heads-up display, a wireless charging pad, automatic climate control, 60:40 split rear seats, Type A & Type C USB charging ports, and push-button start.

Under the hood, the Starlet Cross is powered by a 1.5L K15 four-cylinder engine that makes 105 PS at 6000 rpm along with 138 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic gearbox.

With the Starlet Cross serving as Toyota's most affordable crossover in South Africa, we cannot help but think that this crossover could work in the Philippines. Unfortunately, it would directly compete with the likes of the Raize and may cost more since it will have to be sourced outside ASEAN.

Do you think the Starlet Cross would make for a suitable crossover in the country?