It has been revealed that the Toyota Starlet will be revived for the first time in 27 years in 2026. This legendary car, which ceased production in 1999, will be reborn as an innovative compact sports car that combines modern technology with market needs.
Of particular note is the existence of the sports grade ” GR Starlet .” This model pursues full-scale sports performance while remaining affordable, and has the potential to breathe new life into Japanese sports car culture.
GR Starlet: A new dimension in authentic sports
Overwhelming performance specs
The most notable feature is the introduction of the sports grade ” GR Starlet ,” which is equipped with a 1.3L inline 3-cylinder turbo engine based on the GR Yaris engine .
Expected specs :
- Maximum power : 150 horsepower
- Maximum torque : 22.0-22.5 kgm
- Drive system : FF
- Transmission : 6-speed manual (CVT also available as an option)
- Vehicle weight : Approximately 980 kg (target weight under 1 ton)
- Price : From approximately 2.5 million yen
Dedicated tuning for full-scale driving performance
The GR Starlet is not just a dress-up model. Equipped with specially tuned suspension and reinforced brakes , it is designed as a genuine sports compact that can be enjoyed even on winding roads.
The body size has also been increased from the standard model, to 3,850mm in length, 1,725mm in width and 1,475mm in height , just barely falling within the 3-number size. This increase is due to the installation of over fenders to accommodate the wider tread tires.
Powertrain Diversity
Base model: Pursuing efficiency
The base model is equipped with a 1.0L inline 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine . Thanks to the latest combustion efficiency technology, it achieves sufficient power for everyday use and excellent fuel economy of 24km/L in WLTC mode .
The potential of hybrid models
Some sources have also reported that a hybrid model will be available, equipped with a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine and Toyota’s latest hybrid system. Expectations are high for incredible fuel economy of over 30km/L in WLTC mode .
GR Model: The pinnacle of sports performance
The GR Starlet’s 1.3L turbo engine produces more torque than a 2L naturally aspirated engine, achieving power performance that is on a different level in this class.
The background to the Starlet’s revival and its market position
Filling the strategic gap caused by the end of the Passo
The discontinuation of the Daihatsu Passo in 2023 has left a large gap in Toyota’s entry-level compact car lineup. The new Starlet will not only fill this gap, but will also be strategically positioned as an entry-level model below the Yaris .
The price range is expected to be around 1.45 million to 2.5 million yen , making it a very attractive option for young people and first-time buyers.
Designed with global expansion in mind
The new Starlet is being considered for expansion not only in the domestic market, but also in emerging Asian markets. With demand for compact yet sporty models on the rise, it is expected to play a key role in Honda’s global strategy.
New Starlet design innovation
Evolution of exterior design
The exterior design of the new Starlet completely overturns the concept of a conventional entry-level model. It adopts an aggressive design that emphasizes sportiness, a stark departure from the understated styling of the Passo.
The front face features a striking combination of a wide hexagonal grille and thin, sharp LED headlights. While incorporating the muscular design elements of the current Yaris, the new car achieves more compact and aggressive proportions.
The side view is characterised by powerful character lines and protruding wheel arches, creating a compact yet striking styling. The rear design features three-dimensional LED taillights, effectively expressing the car’s sportiness.
Balancing body size and practicality
The body size of the standard model will remain within the 5-number range, taking into consideration Japan’s road conditions:
- Total length : approx. 3,670mm
- Overall width : 1,665mm
- Overall height : 1,520mm
- Wheelbase : 2,525 mm (extended 35 mm)
By extending the wheelbase, the interior space has been increased and driving stability has been improved at the same time.
Advanced technology and enhanced safety features
Toyota Safety Sense standard equipment
Despite being an entry-level model, all grades come standard with Toyota Safety Sense , which offers a full range of features found in higher-end models, such as pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Enhanced connectivity functions
Smartphone connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard equipment, and a wide range of connected services are available through the T-Connect service . Furthermore, it supports over-the-air updates , so you can always keep your car up to date.
Comparative analysis with competitors
Direct confrontation with Suzuki Swift Sport
Comparison with the Swift Sport, the most influential car in the current compact sports car market, is inevitable.
| item | GR Starlet (prediction) | Next-generation Swift Sport (prediction) |
|---|---|---|
| engine | 1.3L inline 3-cylinder turbo | 1.4L inline 4-cylinder turbo + 48V mild hybrid |
| Maximum power | 150ps | 140ps |
| Maximum torque | 22.5kgm | 235Nm |
| transmission | 6-speed MT/CVT | 6-speed MT/6-speed AT |
| Estimated Price | From 2.5 million yen | From 2.5 million yen |
The GR Starlet demonstrates its superiority in terms of power output, and by establishing a good rivalry with the GR Starlet , it is expected to revitalize the B-segment hot hatch market .
Differentiation from the Nissan Note Aura and Honda Fit
It is expected to compete with the Note Aura and Fit among users who prioritize practicality, but the new Starlet is likely to have a clear advantage in terms of sporty performance and a wide range of advanced equipment .
Pricing Innovation
Amazing cost performance
The new Starlet is priced very strategically:
- Base grade : from approximately 1.45 million yen
- High-end model : Approximately 1.9 million yen
- GR Starlet : From approximately 2.5 million yen
This price setting makes it more affordable than the Yaris, while offering the same or better equipment and performance . In particular, the GR Starlet’s price of 2.5 million yen is likely to be the cheapest model under the GR brand.
Market impact and future outlook
Revitalizing the youth market
The arrival of the new Starlet is likely to bring new vitality to the stagnant young car market. By offering genuine sports performance and the latest equipment at an affordable price, it is expected to rekindle the interest of young people who have been drifting away from cars .
Expanding the sports car market
The GR Starlet’s low price point has the potential to significantly expand the sports car market , providing a new option for those who have previously been unable to afford sports cars due to their high price.
Release date and future developments
Strategic implications of its appearance in 2026
The 2026 launch date is strategically timed as the electrification of the automotive industry accelerates. It shows a clever product strategy that maximizes the appeal of internal combustion engine vehicles while also laying the groundwork for future electrification.
Sales strategy and dealer development
In addition to being sold at Toyota dealerships nationwide, there is also a possibility that the GR Starlet will be sold at GR specialty stores , which will provide a more sports car-like purchasing experience.
Summary: The arrival of a new era of compact sports cars
The new Toyota Starlet, which will be revived in 2026, is not just a nostalgic model, but an innovative compact car that perfectly combines modern technology with market needs .
Its innovative design , improved interior quality , diverse power unit options , full adoption of advanced safety technology , and above all , its astonishing price tag , all of these features overturn the conventional concept of a compact car.
The GR Starlet in particular has the potential to revolutionize Japanese sports car culture by creating a new category of affordable , authentic sports cars. Its 1.3L turbo engine’s 150 horsepower specs are overwhelming in this class, and combined with a price starting from around 2.5 million yen, it will bring the joy of sports driving to many young people.
The new Starlet, which is making its comeback after 27 years, is not just a modern rebirth of a classic car from the past, but aims to create a new automotive culture . We can’t wait for its release in 2026, as it will undoubtedly be the definitive next-generation compact sports car .
