Dissecting Toyota’s SUV range

Toyota’s extensive range of SUVs means that there is sometimes some overlap in terms of sizing and pricing which can create a degree of confusion amongst consumers. This is where four of Toyota’s most popular SUVs fit into the picture.

SUVs are all the rage these days and the fastest growing body type by a big margin as consumers move away from hatchbacks and sedans in search of vehicles that offer added practicality and ability.

In response to this demand motor manufacturers now offer SUVs in all the traditional vehicle categories in terms of size and price point, ensuring that there is an SUV for every budget and use case.

Toyota are no different and their model range incorporates a wide variety of SUVs including the recently launched Starlet Cross as well as the Urban Cruiser, Corolla Cross and larger SUVs and 4x4s such as the Toyota Fortuner, RAV4, Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 300.

This extensive range of SUVs means that there is sometimes some overlap in terms of sizing and pricing which can create a degree of confusion amongst consumers. This is where four of Toyota’s most popular SUVs fit into the picture.

Starlet Cross

The most recent addition to Toyota’s Crossover and SUV lineup is the sleek and stylish Starlet Cross.

The Starlet Cross fuses SUV practicality with the contemporary hatchback design cues that made the original Starlet such a success as it competes in the lower end of the B segment.

The Starlet Cross is powered by a 1.5-litre engine naturally aspirated engine offering 77kW and 138Nm. This offers a great balance between performance and fuel efficiency and makes the Starlet Cross an ideal companion for both daily commuting and weekend adventures.

Ground clearance of 170mm is 30mm more than the regular Starlet, which gives the Starlet Cross the ability to tackle a variety of terrain with ease.

The Starlet Cross is ideal for couples or small families looking for a vehicle in this segment and an entry point into the SUV market. Pricing starts at R299 900.

Urban Cruiser

The Toyota Urban Cruiser is positioned in the higher end of the B segment, where there has also been a continuous shift from hatchbacks towards crossovers due to the increasing need for space at an affordable price point as well as the loftier driving position.

The Urban Cruiser is slightly bigger in size and offers increased cabin space both front and rear as well as a larger boot space compared to the Starlet Cross. The Urban Cruiser steps away from the hatchback styling of the Starlet Cross and offers pure SUV styling, including a boxier form that ensures a unique silhouette.

The Urban Cruiser is fitted with the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine delivering 77kW and 138Nm as the Starlet Cross. Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.

Pricing starts at R342 500.

Corolla Cross

In a fiercely competitive SUV segment, the Corolla Cross has secured its place as South Africa’s favourite, as it continually dominates the sales charts and for good reason.

The Corolla Cross is more than just and SUV, it is a continuation of the iconic Corolla legacy and combines Toyota’s renowned quality, durability and reliability with a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. As such the Corolla Cross offers all of the features that has always made the Corolla a popular choice amongst South African motorists, along with the added convenience of SUV styling and practicality.

The Corolla Cross is available with a two-engine strategy which includes a 1.8-litre petrol engine and ultra-fuel efficient 1.8-litre hybrid powertrain. The latter offers features such as a fully electric driving mode and self-charging ability, resulting in a package that prioritises clean driving and efficiency as the petrol and electric motors complement each other seamlessly.

A larger size and hatchback practicality means that the Corolla Cross can carry up to five occupants comfortably which makes it a great family vehicle.

Pricing of the Toyota Corolla Cross starts at R414 800.

Toyota Fortuner

Next up on the price and size scale is another South African favourite, the Toyota Fortuner. This large SUV offers room for up to seven passengers and is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 categories, which sees the Fortuner cross the line between an SUV in the truest sense of the word and a real 4x4 capable off-roader.

The Fortuner shares engines with the Toyota Hilux and is available with a 2.4-litre or a 2.8-litre engine, both of which offer a great combination of performance and fuel efficiency.

The Toyota Fortuner is a great all-rounder and can fulfil many roles thanks to its large SUV or 4x4 capability, extensive seating capability and powerful engines.

Pricing starts at R679 100.