Toyota Taisor to be sold as Starlet Cross globally
What's the story
Japanese automaker Toyota has recently introduced a new model in the Indian market, the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor.
This vehicle is essentially a modified version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, featuring unique design elements that distinguish it.
The Taisor is set to undergo a transformation for international markets, where it will be rebranded as the Toyota Starlet Cross.
Rebranding strategy
Why the name change?
Following the marketing strategy of the Indian-manufactured Glanza, which is sold as the Starlet in South Africa, the Taisor will also be rebranded as the Starlet Cross in this region.
The Toyota Starlet is a popular choice among consumers, serving as an entry-level hatchback in various global markets.
This move is expected to extend Toyota's lineup of Indian-made products available in South Africa.
Manufacturing insights
Production details of the Starlet Cross
The production of the Starlet Cross will take place at Maruti Suzuki's Gujarat plant in India, catering to both domestic and international markets.
A key difference between the Indian and global models is their engines.
The Starlet Cross will feature a 1.5-liter petrol engine, also found in the Fronx, Glanza, and Baleno models sold in South Africa.
Engine details
Engine specifications for Starlet Cross
The 1.2-liter, naturally aspirated petrol, and 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engines offered with the Fronx and Taisor in India, won't be available for export models.
Instead, South African versions of the Starlet Cross will be equipped with an older K15B 1.5-liter engine, not India's new K15C Dual Jet powertrains.
This K15B engine delivers 105hp of power and 134Nm of torque. It can be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox.