Toyota Starlet (96-99) - Review

Review by Parkers on
This was the model that ended the long line of Starlets with a wider range (including the sporty SR) than ever before. Despite the Hollywood inspired name, the Starlet does not really draw attention to itself. It can’t. The styling is so dull, the Starlet is easy to overlook. Style matters now even at the entry level end of the car market so this is a major flaw. On the plus side, it inherits Toyota's legendary reliability and with prices starting at £2500, it makes an efficient runabout. Replaced by the more charismatic Yaris.
1.5 out of 5

Equipment

Considering that the Starlet is still a high quality, but low price Toyota the equipment levels are adequate. All models have a driver’s airbag, but the entry level 1.3 does not have power steering. CD models have a rev counter and four-speaker audio; the Sportif tries to live up to its name with colourful graphics, but the only really sporty one is the 1.3 SR Sport Rally. This has 15" alloy wheels (with locking wheel nuts), sports exhaust, rear spoiler and lowered suspension. The 1.3i has a budget specification, as does the 1.3i S which just adds Sportif wheel trims. Continuing models from May 98 received a larger airbag and improved suspension.

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Compare Equipment

Trim

Equipment

Key:

Standard item

Optional item

  • Alloy wheels
  • Body coloured bumpers
  • CD
  • Central locking
  • Cloth seat trim
  • Driver`s airbag
  • Electric sunroof
  • Folding rear seats
  • Front electric windows
  • Full size spare wheel
  • Height adjustable drivers seat
  • Metallic Paint
  • PAS
  • Steel wheels
Standard Trim Sol Solida S SR GLS
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Yes Optional Optional Yes Yes Yes
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Yes Optional Optional Yes No Yes