Dec. 26, 1995
FULL MODEL CHANGE INTRODUCED FOR STARLET
First Car in Its Class Produced in Japan With ABS as Standard
Tokyo―TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION announced today the fully remodeled Starlet, designed as the next century's basic passenger car and incorporating top-level safety features, high fuel efficiency, and value for money in a simple style. The Starlet series of models comprises the Reflet (French for luster) and the Glanza (from the German word "glanz" meaning brightness).
- Major Features
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- The Starlet is the first car in the small-sized vehicle class produced in Japan equipped with ABS as standard on all model variants.
- The newly developed collision safety body―the Global Outstanding Assessment (GOA)―and driver-side SRS air bag fitted as standard equipment on all models achieve top passive safety levels in its class.
- Excellent drivability and fuel economy are realized through use of economical high-torque 1.3-liter engine and a new chassis.
- The comfortable, quiet, functional cabin has front door glass that protects against UV and infrared radiation.
- Simple, smooth styling emphasizes the clean sharp character line along the familiar-looking body.
- Overview
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- Excellent Active Safety
ABS is equipped as standard on all model variants.The higher seat level and steeply raked belt line of front door give all drivers a comprehensive field of vision.The efficient aerodynamics at high speeds of the rear spoiler on the Glanza keeps the rear view clear with an air flow that stops dirt, rain, and snow from collecting on the rear window.
- Top World-Class Passive Safety Levels in Its Class
The Starlet uses the new collision safety body, called the GOA body, comprising a crushable body and high integrity cabin, designed with advanced computer analysis to give optimum form and layout of the body skeleton members and cabin impact-absorbing pads. To implement top world-class safety levels, the Starlet meets Toyota's own extremely stringent standards, Japan's safety standards, and the European Frontal Impact Regulation (40% lap offset) and Side Impact Regulation (effective in Europe with new models introduced from October 1998).A driver-side SRS air bag is standard equipment in all models, with a passenger-side SRS air bag option available also for all models.
- Excellent Drivability and Fuel Economy
Fine tuning of the engine and chassis give greater riding comfort and fuel economy.
- Engine
- Focusing on producing high torque in the normal driving range, the 1.3-liter, 4E-FE naturally aspirated engine comes with a knock-control system, long port intake manifold, and modified valve timing, resulting in easier handling and more comfortable driving both in the city and on the highway.Reduced friction loss and running resistance, an optimized torque converter wing shape, and over-all gear ratios help to achieve high fuel efficiency.The 1.3-liter, 4E-FE engine's 21.0km/liter fuel consumption is the top in its class (four-speed manual transmission, 10·15 mode).The new turbocharger, with modified turbine wheel design, gives the 1.3-liter turbo-charged engine quicker startup. To deliver a smooth startup and greater drivability on slippery surfaces, a two-mode (high-low) boost pressure control system provides automatic control in low boost only in first gear.
- Chassis
- The front lower arm suspension is lighter than before, and spring and bush component characteristics have been reviewed and redesigned in detail. The modified suspension with durable body gives outstanding riding comfort and a smoother drive through improved control and stability.
- Outstanding Cabin Comfort and Functionality
More cabin width and height provides greater cabin comfort.Cabin noise levels are lower than ever through control of engine and other noise sources with strategic placement of noise-absorbing and soundproof materials.New "UV-cut glass" blocks ultraviolet and infrared radiation, to reduce burning and heat (UV glass for front doors optional on all models).*The smallest turning radius in its class―4.4m, comparable to a mini vehiclegives―greater turning control (Reflet FF-engine models).The highlighted hood relief makes it easy for all drivers to judge the exact location of the front passenger-side corner.A front seat with a wide range of height adjustment is available on all models.*Power folding door mirrors are optional.**For easier operation, the seat slide handle has been replaced by a loop type on all models.The handle on the inside of the hatch back door has been newly placed to ensure easier shutting.*
A new Automatic Locking Retractor―Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR-ELR) seat belt for the rear seat is available for child safety.**except for "Reflet" of the Reflet models**except for "Reflet" and "Reflet f" of the Reflet models - Simple, Smooth Styling
Integrating a fluid line and a hard surface produces Toyota's most compact body. Simple styling with tighter front and rear, and the bumper integrated with the radiator grille, lend a casual air.The hood-hugging headlamps give the basic Reflet models their elegance. The multireflector headlamps and large radiator grille in the front bumper provide the Glanza sports models with a simple, sharp, dynamic driving image.
- Environmental Considerations
Materials for the front and rear bumpers include recycled material. The pillar garnish, instrument panel, and other interior parts use Toyota Super Olefin Polymer (TSOP) which has outstanding recyclability.The new Starlet will go on sale at Toyota Auto dealers nationwide from January 6, 1996.
The monthly sales target is 10,000 units.
- Excellent Active Safety