Kenya’s leading motor vehicle distributor, Toyota Kenya, launched the all-new multi-utility hatchback model, Toyota Starlet.
The model, which was discontinued in the ’90s will start selling at 1,980,000 shillings. The Toyota Starlet brings everything you would expect from a compact hatchback: an ideal size to drive everywhere with agility.
The 1.4-liter petrol engine (K14B) delivers both powers and low fuel consumption. The launch comes at a time when the demand for the popular 1000cc to 1600cc vehicle is on the rise with many people looking for affordable and convenient vehicles for everyday use.
Speaking at the unveiling of the stylish and ergonomically designed Starlet, Toyota Kenya Managing Director Arvinder Reel acclaimed the multi-purpose vehicle as a comfortable, reliable, and safe solution for customers looking for high-economy vehicles with exceptional drivability.
“The desire to drive around in an economical car with family and friends has pushed customers to look for spacious, comfortable, and easy to drive models as they seek to make the most out of their precious moments. The all-new Toyota Starlet delivers on this and also has elegant curves and controls that add taste to our customers’ daily errands. It is built to make you feel like a star,” said Mr. Reel.
The newly launched Toyota Starlet was designed for young motor enthusiasts and families. It measures 3 995 mm long, with a width of 1 745 mm and a wheelbase of 2 520 mm. The interior features ample headroom and legroom with a beautifully vivid instrument cluster with a center MultiInformation Display (MID).
The steering wheel has also been equipped with multifunctional buttons for cruise control. Better yet, the rear seats are foldable to create more room for packing or carrying things that could not fit in the back seat or boot.
It has a fuel-efficient petrol engine with a power output pegged at 68kW/6000 rpm with 130Nm of torque at 4200 rpm. It also has an exterior that follows a classic hatchback profile, with a short, downward-sloping nose and rounded-off rear hatch.
The new exterior is specifically designed to be elegant with a strong personality that differentiates it from other vehicles.
The new Starlet comes with the latest technological features such as the smart-entry push button, a reverse-view camera with parking sensors, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibility.
It also offers Bluetooth hands-free telephony and audio streaming functions, all of which are linked to strategically placed buttons on the steering wheel enabling you to easily answer and end calls without letting go of the wheel.
The spec level has also been amped by the digital speedometer with color MID, leather steering wheel with telescopic adjustment, climate control, and push-start operation.
“Those who buy the new Toyota Starlet will have the advantage of enjoying Toyota’s quality service and low maintenance cost from Toyota’s dedicated and fully-fledged spare-parts and after-sales facilities which offer exemplary service. With Toyota’s expanded network that has 31 outlets of branches and dealers across the country and customer service technicians who are professionally trained, the new Toyota Starlet owners should look forward to accessible and efficient first-class service,” concluded Mr. Reel.
