Despite newer competition, the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid remains a commendable choice among three-row SUVs. With its introduction shadowed by the larger 2024 Grand Highlander and rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, it still holds its ground. This analysis delves into why the Highlander Hybrid continues to be a viable option for many families.
Family-Oriented Versatility
When discussing versatile family vehicles, the conversation often shifts towards the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. This SUV’s design balances functionality without the bulkiness of a minivan, making it a subtle choice for family duties. With a week of testing under our belt, its merits as a dependable family transporter become apparent, demonstrating why it still garners attention amidst stiff competition.
Understated Yet Practical Design
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid might not capture attention with flashy aesthetics like some of its peers, but it offers a design that blends seamlessly into the family lifestyle. It doesn’t boast the aggressive styling of the Kia Telluride or the Ford Explorer but offers a softer, more approachable look that aligns well with its practical intentions. Its resemblance to vehicles like the Subaru Ascent highlights its focus on being an efficient, no-frills family hauler.
Enhanced Features and Comfort
The Highlander Hybrid might not be the star in cabin innovation, but it offers solid features that enhance family travel. This model comes equipped with rear sunshades, three-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel, prioritizing comfort over flashy technology. For those considering higher comfort levels, the Limited and Platinum trims provide luxurious additions like heated rear seats, catering to families looking for that extra touch of comfort.
Conclusion
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid doesn’t need to be the freshest face or the most lavishly equipped to meet family needs. Its design philosophy centers on reliability and efficiency, making it a sensible choice for families who value practicality over prestige. While it may not dominate feature comparisons, its steadfast reliability and efficiency speak volumes, explaining its enduring popularity in the competitive SUV market.
If stretching a tank of gas beyond 500 miles sounds ideal, then the Toyota Prius Prime is the vehicle for you. In a world where gas prices are anything but stable, having a car that boasts exceptional fuel efficiency is a significant advantage. The Prius Prime not only meets this need but exceeds it, allowing drivers to travel more than 500 miles on a single fill-up, making it a champion of fuel economy.
Affordable and Efficient: The Toyota Prius Prime Advantage
The allure of the Toyota Prius Prime extends beyond its impressive mileage. Starting at a modest $32,975, this plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offers an accessible price point without sacrificing quality. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller vehicle footprint but still desire the freedom and efficiency of a PHEV for long road trips or daily commutes.
Driving Dynamics and Cost Savings
Driving the Prius Prime means enjoying significant financial savings alongside advanced fuel technology. The EPA suggests that drivers could save an average of $6,250 in fuel costs over five years compared to other passenger vehicles. This model combines a gas engine achieving 52 mpg and an electric motor that offers 127 MPGe, providing a dual benefit of cost efficiency and reduced environmental impact. With a combined driving range of up to 600 miles, the Prius Prime ensures that visits to the gas station are few and far between.
Performance and Charging Convenience
While the Prius Prime won’t outpace a sports car, its 220 horsepower from a hybrid engine setup ensures a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. Charging is straightforward with a Level 2 charger, which replenishes the battery in about four hours. For those using a standard 120-volt outlet, charging takes longer—up to 11 hours—but is perfectly manageable overnight, making it ready for the next day’s adventures.
The Ideal Plug-In Hybrid Choice
The Toyota Prius Prime not only meets but exceeds the expectations for a PHEV with its affordable pricing, extended range, robust power, and appealing design. It stands out as a top choice for drivers looking to maximize their fuel efficiency while enjoying a reliable, stylish ride that makes long-distance travel worry-free.
This overview provides valuable insights for anyone considering the Toyota Prius Prime as a viable option for maximizing travel distance while keeping running costs low. It highlights the vehicle’s blend of efficiency, affordability, and driving pleasure, ensuring it remains a favored choice in the competitive PHEV market.
The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid emerges as a standout for its affordability in the hybrid SUV market, challenging the notion that hybrid vehicles are prohibitively expensive. Priced at just $29,579, including the destination fee, this model undercuts competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Dodge Hornet Hybrid, which both start above $35,000. This makes the Corolla Cross Hybrid not just an economical choice but a financially sensible one, blending cost-effectiveness with environmental consciousness.
Performance and Economy
Under the hood, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine complemented by three electric motors, delivering a robust 196 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain configuration ensures efficient all-wheel drive capability, allowing for a sprightly acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.9 seconds—impressive for its class and notably quicker than its non-hybrid variant. Furthermore, it achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 45 mpg in the city and 42 mpg combined, making it an ideal choice for both urban commuters and long-distance travelers.
Value and Features: More Than Just Savings
The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid doesn’t just save money at the dealership; it continues to provide value down the road with its comprehensive suite of features. Standard equipment includes 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, and a modern infotainment system with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety is also paramount, with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking included at no extra cost. This package of features ensures that drivers enjoy not only cost savings but also a comfortable, safe, and technologically up-to-date driving experience.
By combining affordability with a rich array of features and impressive fuel efficiency, the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid positions itself as a top choice for buyers looking to enter the hybrid SUV market without compromising on quality or performance. Its introduction may well set a new standard for value in a segment that is increasingly popular among cost-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
The new 2025 Toyota Camry is an all-hybrid, face-lifted affair that refuses to go the way of the Avalon.
The Toyota Camry is an institution in the United States. Hell, the Camry has been cruising American streets and knocking out errands for domestic Toyota drivers since the early 1980s. However, the 2025 Toyota Camry hits the streets without showing signs of slowing down or stopping. In fact, the 2025 model proves that the Toyota sedan changes with the times.
The 2025 Toyota Camry continues strong beyond the lifespan of the Avalon with a hybrid-only lineup
The 2025 Toyota Camry is back with a new look inside and out. Gone is the Camry’s post-facelift aesthetic in favor of an expansive grille and sculpted fascia features. It’s a welcome update from the seventh-generation Camry and its seven-year stretch.
Of course, the most significant update in the 2025 Toyota Camry story is the all-hybrid lineup for the new model year. Unlike the 2024 model, the new Camry ditches the non-hybridized four-cylinder option and the 301-horsepower V6 in the TRD and lower trims. It also means less variety for fans of the Toyota sedan model. For instance, the 2024 model year offered more than twice as many trims as the upcoming 2025 Camry and its four hybrid options.
Model
Starting price
Camry LE
$29,495
Camry SE
$31,795
Camry XLE
$34,495
Camry XSE
$35,695
However, some things remain the same for the Camry, even as the model gets an update. The LE and SE remain the most affordable options for car shoppers. Moreover, the XLE and XSE stay in the mix, proving that the “X” stands for “X-tra luxury.” Specifically, the XLE and XSE add leather aplenty, heated surfaces, extra noise insulation, and ambient lighting over the lower-trim Camrys.
The 2025 Toyota Camry XLE | Toyota
Sure, the Camry lost another ranking among the Japanese brand’s top-sellers to the popular RAV4 compact SUV. However, Toyota claims the new Camry will get upwards of 51 mpg combined for the 2025 model year. While that’s not quite Prius numbers, it’s more than enough to establish the all-hybrid Toyota Camry as one of the most efficient sedans in the segment. Better yet, the hybrid platform is more powerful than last year. All-wheel drive (AWD) models will produce as much as 232 horsepower, a 24-horsepower improvement over the previous generation. Of course, it’s a far cry from the 301 ponies in the now-extinct 3.5L V6.
Toyota made a big announcement this week, letting the world know that it was committing over a billion dollars to build an electric, three-row SUV in Indiana. If that news gives you a sense of deja vu, it’s not just you — this shouldn’t be confused with Toyota’s February announcement about a different three-row electric SUV slated to be built in Kentucky.
All told, the two steps mean that Toyota is committing $2.7 billion to the two American-made electric SUVs. The automaker’s announcement of its new $1.4 billion investment in the Princeton, Indiana facility confirms that the two models are distinct from one another — but it sure seems like Toyota has a particular segment of the market in mind.
Toyota also clarified that the Indiana investment would encompass both the electric SUV assembly and an assembly line for battery packs.
Despite plenty of evidence that there’s room to grow on the sedan side of the EV market, it isn’t hard to see why Toyota would be looking into spacious SUVs for its big EV push. Odds are good that drivers seeking a three-row SUV also live somewhere that could accommodate a charger, which is ideal, seeing as how charging infrastructure has frustrated some EV owners.
This investment in electric SUVs isn’t Toyota’s only big April announcement about upcoming models. Earlier this month, the automaker said that the 2025 Camry would be a hybrid, full stop. It seems telling that Toyota’s ubiquitous sedan is taking a very different path towards electrification — but it also feels like an acknowledgement of where the market and charging infrastructure are right now.
Significant Moves in the EV Market by Toyota and Honda
Environmental advocates and industry analysts have criticized Toyota, the top automaker globally in terms of sales, for its hesitant approach to electric vehicles (EVs). This criticism stems primarily from Toyota’s limited EV offerings in the U.S. and its persistent opposition to the EPA’s emissions targets. However, Toyota is taking significant strides by pledging billions in U.S. investments aimed at expanding its EV production.
Your Daily Digest on Essential EV Market Trends
We’re excited to continue bringing you “Critical Materials,” your essential daily briefing on key developments in both the U.S. and international EV markets, now available five days a week and soon via an email newsletter. After a two-week visit to India, transitioning from the intense heat of Mumbai to the milder spring in New York, today’s focus is on Toyota’s new investments in its Indiana plant. This investment is earmarked for a completely new battery-electric vehicle (BEV), amidst Chinese EV companies bracing for intense market competition and Drew Baglino’s significant sell-off of Tesla shares.
Toyota’s $1.4 Billion Commitment to Indiana
Toyota’s recent announcement of a $1.4 billion investment in its Princeton, Indiana plant marks a substantial commitment to U.S. manufacturing of EVs. This facility is set to produce a new three-row electric SUV, contributing to a total of $8 billion Toyota has invested in Indiana, creating 340 new jobs. This expansion not only promises to enhance the U.S. auto market but also solidifies Toyota’s dedication to building EVs domestically.
Honda’s Strategic North American Investments
Adding to the momentum, Honda has also declared a major $11 billion investment in North America for an EV and battery assembly plant in Canada. This venture will enhance Honda’s production capabilities to 240,000 vehicles annually and includes a new battery production line capable of 36 gigawatt-hours, along with the creation of 1,000 jobs. These steps underscore the fact that Japanese automakers, although initially slow to embrace EV technology, are now making substantial inroads in the industry.
The Harsh Reality for Chinese EV Manufacturers
Despite substantial government backing and initial rapid growth, many smaller Chinese EV producers are struggling with market oversaturation. This has triggered a fierce price battle and a slowdown in the growth rate of EVs. According to China’s primary economic planner, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), 2024 will see heightened competition in the sector, potentially leading to a significant reduction in the number of active EV manufacturers.
The Final Business Move of a Tesla Veteran
Drew Baglino, formerly a top executive at Tesla, recently made headlines by selling over 1.1 million shares of Tesla stock, valued at approximately $181 million. This move followed his departure from the company, which coincided with widespread layoffs across Tesla’s facilities worldwide. His exit and the sale raise concerns about Tesla’s future in a fiercely competitive market.
Could Japanese Automakers Lead the EV Revolution?
Historically, Japanese automakers have demonstrated their capacity to dominate global markets through innovative practices like Toyota’s lean manufacturing. With their recent aggressive moves into the EV sector, they may be poised to repeat this success in the burgeoning electric vehicle market.
Factual Additions and Emotional Engagement
Embracing Change and Innovation
Toyota’s decision to transform its traditional manufacturing facilities in Indiana to accommodate electric vehicles reflects a broader industry trend towards sustainable transportation. This commitment not only secures jobs but also plays a crucial part in the global shift toward greener technologies. The emotional weight of securing the future of automotive workers and contributing positively to environmental goals cannot be overstated.
The Ripple Effect of Industry Evolution
Honda’s investment in a Canadian facility is not just a significant boost to the local economy but also a testament to the transformative power of innovation in the automotive industry. As these automotive giants pivot to electric, they inspire a wave of technological and economic change that resonates through communities, enhancing lives and providing new opportunities in a rapidly evolving world.
Toyota is ramping up its transition to electric vehicles with a $1.4 billion enhancement of its Princeton, Indiana plant. This facility, known for assembling the Toyota Sienna and Lexus TX, will now also produce a new three-row electric SUV. This initiative not only highlights Toyota’s dedication to expanding its electric lineup but also escalates the total plant investment to a notable $8 billion.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
This new venture will add 340 jobs to the existing workforce of 7,500 at the Princeton plant. It is a key part of Toyota’s wider $18.6 billion investment strategy aimed at boosting its U.S. electric vehicle production capabilities initiated in 2021. The expansion underscores Toyota’s commitment to stimulating economic growth and securing sustainable employment in the area.
Advancements in Production and Commitment to Quality
Toyota’s latest announcement includes setting up a new battery pack assembly line that will use lithium-ion batteries from its $13.9 billion North Carolina battery production plant, anticipated to start operations next year. This move is part of Toyota’s efforts to optimize its supply chain and enhance manufacturing efficiencies. Tim Hollander, the president of Toyota Indiana, highlighted the firm’s pledge to uphold high production quality and reliable job prospects, ensuring Toyota’s standards of excellence and dependability continue to meet customer expectations.
Enhanced Insights and Community Engagement
Solidifying the U.S. Manufacturing Presence
Toyota’s investments are pivotal in its shift towards electric vehicle technology, reinforcing its manufacturing base in the U.S. This expansion not only aligns with global sustainability efforts but also positions Toyota as a leader in the electric vehicle sector, poised to meet future market demands.
Strengthening Community Ties Through Employment
The addition of new jobs at the Princeton facility does more than enhance Toyota’s production capacity; it plays a crucial role in bolstering local economies. By providing new and stable employment opportunities, Toyota is actively contributing to the economic well-being of thousands of families, thereby reinforcing its role as a central community figure.
Upholding High Standards in Innovative Manufacturing
As Toyota forges ahead with the production of new electric models, it remains focused on delivering high-quality and high-performance vehicles. The investment in advanced manufacturing techniques and worker training ensures that the new electric SUVs adhere to the stringent quality standards Toyota is known for, enhancing consumer trust and satisfaction.
Toyota introduced the Camry into the American market in 1983, and the model has spent over four decades forging an outstanding reputation. As one of the most common cars seen cruising the roads, its popularity comes from its consistent track record of dependable performance. Based on J.D. Power rankings, this curated selection is for existing Camry fans and prospective buyers who want the most reliable and cost-effective cars that Toyota has to offer.
2021 Toyota Camry – 83/100 Power Ranking
DestinationFearFan/Wikipedia
The 2021 model allows drivers to choose between two powertrains paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. They can pick a proven 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 203 HP or an energetic 3.5-liter V6 with 301 HP. It also saves gas, using 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. This car has a massive return on money due to its specs, especially with a standard touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
2022 Toyota Camry – 84/100 Power Ranking
Elise240SX/Wikipedia
This mid-size sedan has eight trim levels: LE, SE, SE Nightshade, XLE, XSE, TRD V6, XLE V6, and XSE V6. While LE is the base, manufacturers designed the XLE for performance using a sport-tuned suspension and a better engine. This model is reliable due to its innovative safety components, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and an automatic emergency braking system.
2013 Toyota Camry – 84/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
This model bagged a five-star safety rating based on its standard security measures, such as the emergency brake assist and anti-lock brakes. Toyota added new interior materials and colors, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.
2009 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Aero7/Wikipedia
While it’s not the newest in town, this car is usually recommended and chosen in the market for being dependable, affordable, and easy to use. It has an EPA-estimated 21 and 31 mpg for city and highway, respectively, which is pretty impressive. Besides a spacious interior, you’d love this car for its cloth upholstery, leather seats, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and premium six-speaker audio system.
2008 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Bryan Mitchell/Getty
Like the 2009 model, the 2008 Camry has a 169 HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that saves fuel or a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 268 HP for drivers seeking more power. Despite its oil-burning problem, owners have shared their satisfaction, praising its ride quality and low maintenance costs.
2010 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Justin Sullivan/Getty
The 2010 Camry came with several notable improvements from past models while retaining the core strengths that made it a bestseller. The new six-speed automatic transmission and some engine refinements improved fuel economy. The car had a new grille, larger headlights, and redesigned tail lights, which gave it a modern and sophisticated look.
2018 Toyota Camry – 85/100 Power Ranking
Scott Olson/Getty
Toyota ditched several traditional elements, including the conservative look of previous models. Camrys now had a sharper design with a lower stance and athletic lines, giving them an enticing look. However, they didn’t stop at a stylish exterior; they upgraded the interior, swapped the six-speed automatic for an eight-speed unit, and added tech features to make driving more secure.
2017 Toyota Camry – 86/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
This ideal family sedan is available in LE, SE, XSE, and XLE, four trim levels with basic, sporty, and luxurious options. Customer reviews recommended the XSE trim as it stands between the base LE and topmost XLE in terms of price and features, especially the technology and security packages.
2012 Toyota Camry – 86/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
For this one, 2012 marked the final year of its design generation before a refresh for the 2013 model. Toyota managed to sell 404,886 units despite the slight issues with its engine coolant systems and air conditioning. The fuel-conscious four-cylinder has up to 25 mpg for driving in the city and 35 mpg for the highway. It is considered reliable for its good crash-test results, safety features, and a powerful V-6
2011 Toyota Camry – 87/100 Power Ranking
Two hundred percent/Wikipedia
We’re not surprised folks keep buying this 2011 model. Reviews have shown us that it’s a terrific buy for commuters or anyone who wants a pleasant ride without constant car trouble. While it doesn’t have the fancy look of a Ferrari, owners love it for being dependable at a budget-friendly price.
2024 Toyota Camry – 88/100 Power Ranking
Dinkun Chen/Wikipedia
The Camry mainly stayed the same in 2024, so manufacturers would prepare for the debut of the upcoming 2025 model. The decision also allowed Toyota to maintain consistency in its powertrain, technology, and safety components. It has a comfortable interior with top-notch specs, especially in the XLE trim level, with heated front seats, push-button ignition, and a wireless charging pad.
2023 Toyota Camry – 88/100 Power Ranking
Dinkun Chen/Wikipedia
In 2023, Toyota introduced the Nightshade Edition without significant changes from the previous model year. It retained its three engine options comprising two gasoline engines and a hybrid setup. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder base engine had up to 206 HP, the V6 engine had 301 HP, and the hybrid powertrain gave 208 HP.
2016 Toyota Camry: 89/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
J.D. Power gave the 2016 model a decent rating for quality, making it one of the best Toyota Camrys they’ve ever surveyed. In addition, this car won J.D. Power’s “Best Mid-sized Car” award as the seventh-gen series neared its end. Surprisingly, the company sold only 388,618 units, marking the first time the Camry dropped below 400,000 sales since 2011.
2015 Toyota Camry – 90/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
Toyota unveiled a more aggressive design for the Camry, making significant changes to every body panel except for the roof to give the vehicle a fresh look. This transformation proved successful, as the 2015 model year achieved impressive sales numbers of 429,355 units, mainly due to its striking new appearance. Despite being released almost a decade ago, owners still praise this vehicle for its quality and reliability.
2014 Toyota Camry – 92/100 Power Ranking
EurovisionNim/Wikipedia
The Camry has a well-regarded reputation for interior comfort, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. According to J.D. Power rankings, it is the most dependable machine due to its many features. Some of its available options are ten airbags, fog lights, and an electronic stability system. Higher trims have leather seats, a sunroof, and a touchscreen infotainment system with hands-free Bluetooth connectivity.
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor emerges as a more budget-friendly contender in the off-road truck segment, offering a significant price benefit over the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. With a starting price of $57,065, including destination fees, the Ranger Raptor is almost $10,000 cheaper than its counterpart, the Tacoma, which is tagged at $66,890 including fees. This price disparity makes the Ranger Raptor an attractive option for buyers looking for high performance without the hefty price.
Shifting Market Dynamics Favor the Ford Ranger Raptor
Traditionally dominated by the Toyota Tacoma, the mid-size truck sector is witnessing a shift with the entry of the competitively priced Ford Ranger Raptor. This shift not only challenges the Tacoma’s long-standing market leadership but also introduces a cost-effective alternative for truck enthusiasts. The Tacoma’s higher price point now positions the Ranger Raptor as a formidable competitor offering substantial value.
Comparative Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are designed to excel in off-road conditions, equipped with advanced technologies and powerful engines. The Ranger Raptor boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid setup that delivers 325 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power and the immediate torque response from the Tacoma’s hybrid system highlight each vehicle’s unique approach to balancing performance and efficiency.
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor | Ford
Enhanced Insights and Benefits
Financial Implications of Lower Cost
Opting for the Ford Ranger Raptor could lead to considerable savings for consumers, which could alternatively be used for vehicle customization or saved for other expenses. This financial advantage underscores the Ranger Raptor’s appeal as an economically wise choice without compromising on the expected off-road functionality.
Off-Road Technology and Design
Each truck is outfitted with state-of-the-art off-road tech, including electronically locking differentials and specially tuned Fox shocks, poised to tackle tough terrain with ease. While both models feature 33-inch tires, the Ranger Raptor offers 10.7 inches of ground clearance compared to the Tacoma’s 11.0 inches, slightly edging out in terms of underbody protection.
Interior Comfort and Ergonomic Design
Inside, the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro cater to off-road comfort with distinct seating solutions designed to support the driver and passengers in rugged conditions. The Ranger Raptor is equipped with supportive bucket seats, whereas the Tacoma opts for isodynamic seating to enhance stability and comfort, proving that both models prioritize ergonomics to enhance the overall driving experience.
In conclusion, the Ford Ranger Raptor’s significant price advantage coupled with its robust features and performance makes it a compelling choice for potential buyers, challenging the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro’s dominance in the market with a blend of affordability and capability.
Toyota is on a roll reviving iconic names and it seems they are not limited to the brand’s SUV models. An iconic hot hatchback from Toyota is making a comeback. The Toyota Starlet was what we got before the Toyota Yaris, but the name was dropped after five generations spanning 26 years (1973-1999). The Toyota Starlet is not only making a comeback, but there will also be a GR variant.
The Toyota Starlet actually made a comeback in some markets, as a rebadged, more upscale variant of the current Suzuki Baleno. There was also a rally variant of that car powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four and featuring all-wheel drive. This begs the question, what will be powering the next-generation Starlet?
Reports from Japan indicated that Toyota is teaming up with subsidiary Daihatsu and Suzuki to collaborate on what was believed to be the next-generation Toyota MR-2. While this may still be the case, it seems the next-generation Toyota Starlet is also a co-development between the three companies.
The styling of the Toyota hot hatch is not yet confirmed, but the Japanese publication has given us fairly accurate representations of what is to come. I reported on an upcoming Toyota Starlet back in 2021, but since, there have been more developments surrounding the future of the Starlet.
Japanese publication Best Car Web reported that in February 2024, Toyota President, Tsuneharu Sato, stated that in Japan, Daihatsu will define its business as a company centered around compact vehicles. The new Starlet will, reportedly, be based on the DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) platform, which to no surprise, shares similarities with the TNGA platform.
A GR Starlet makes sense even more considering the Starlet of old had a high-performance, Toyota Starlet Glanza V model, powered by a 1.3-liter turbo-four engine.
The regular versions will, likely, utilize a Suzuki-sourced, 1.0-liter turbo-three mild-hybrid, while the GR Starlet will receive the GR Yaris’ 1.6-liter turbo-three. A 1.3-liter, 150-horsepower variant is also mentioned for the non-GR version of Toyota Starlet. This could, likely, be a GR Sport variant, positioned below the 1.6-liter GR Starlet.
The engine is already homologated for use in rallying by the Toyota GR Yaris, which is a limited-production homologation special. While the GR Yaris is already a force to be reckoned with in WRC’s Rally 1 category, the Starlet will go head-to-head with Rall 4 contenders like the Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta ST. This isn’t the first time manufacturers have homologated a powertrain in one model for motorsport application in a different model.
How much will the new Toyota Starlet cost?
In Japan, the regular Starlet is expected to have an estimated price of 2.5 to 2.8 million yen, which is $15,950-$17,860. Toyota Starlet doesn’t have a rich history as a US-offered model. The Starlet is more popular in Japan and Europe, but was also offered in the US between 1981 and 1984. Toyota Yaris was discontinued for the US market, which leaves space for a new model. Can this be the Starlet?
