Source type: Official OEM South Africa
Suzuki Baleno vs Toyota Starlet
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
Share
Suzuki Baleno
1.5 GLX AT
Petrol
4-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 341,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 77 kW
🔧 138 Nm
⛽ 17.5 km/l
VS
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Suzuki Baleno vs Toyota Starlet: the short answer
Baleno and Starlet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Starlet starts ZAR 25,000 cheaper
Baleno from ZAR 269,900 · Starlet from ZAR 244,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Baleno77 kW @ 6000 rpm | Starlet72 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Baleno138 Nm @ 4400 rpm | Starlet140 Nm |
| Engine Size | Baleno1462 cc | Starlet996 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Baleno17.5 km/l | Starlet16.7 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Baleno150 mm | Starlet162 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Source type: Official OEM South Africa
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Specification evidence leader
Baleno
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger published practicality figures
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Published Practicality
Starlet
Strengths
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Lower published practicality figures
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
General Use
Which One's Right for You?
Baleno
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Starlet
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2022 | 2020 |
| Generation | Second generation globally launched in 2022; entirely new platform and body compared to the first-generation Baleno; shares K15B engine with Fronx, Ertiga, XL6, and Grand Vitara for parts commonality | First generation Starlet in South Africa on B-segment platform |
| Facelift History | Second-generation Baleno launched in SA in 2022 as a full redesign on a new platform — wider, longer, and significantly better specified than the first-generation model; no facelift of the second generation yet | Minor updates since launch |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2022 | Original current-generation version |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Color Note | Pearl Arctic White, Metallic Grandeur Grey, Metallic Midnight Blue, Pearl Burning Red, Solid White | White, Silver, Grey, Blue, Red, Orange |
| Dealer Stock Note | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup | Top grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Tare Mass Kg | 975 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3990 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1745 mm | 1695 mm |
| Height | 1500 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 150 mm | 162 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | Not Officially Disclosed | 125 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 40 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 314 l | 265 l |
| Kerb Weight | 985 kg | 1005 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1430 kg | 1420 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 445 kg | 415 kg |
| Towing Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | 1600 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.1 m | 4.9 m |
| Front Headroom | 993 mm | 982 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 985 mm | 955 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1043 mm | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 900 mm | 885 mm |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Rear Track Width | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Power Steering | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) | Electric |
| Steering Column | Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable | Tilt Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Standard | - |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Standard | - |
| Shock Absorber Type | Telescopic Gas Dampers | - |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring | Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | Telescopic Gas Dampers | - |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Manual Air Conditioning | Automatic AC |
| Power Windows | All Four Windows | All Doors |
| Keyless Entry | Not Available | Standard |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Wireless Apple CarPlay | Optional |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | Not Available | Standard |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 744 l | 265 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 744 l | 265 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | Standard | - |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | Standard — Driver Height Adjustable | - |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Not Available | - |
| 12V Accessory Socket | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Speed Limiter | Standard | - |
| AC Type | Manual Air Conditioning | Automatic AC |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Not Available | Standard |
| Climate Zones | Manual Air Conditioning | Automatic AC |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | All Four Windows | All Doors |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not Available | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop | Not Available | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Not Available | Standard |
| Engine Warranty | 4 Years | Not Applicable |
| Front Armrest | Standard Centre Armrest | Not Available |
| Front Power Outlet | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 5.7 | 6 |
| Glovebox Cooling | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | Not Available |
| Power Mirrors | All Four Windows | All Doors |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Standard |
| Rear Defogger | Standard | - |
| Rear Seat Split | 60:40 Split Fold | 60/40 Split |
| Rear Wing | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | Not Available |
| Seat Type | Leatherette Seat Covers | Fabric |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | All Seats | - |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spare Wheel | Full Size Spare | Full Size Steel |
| Speed Alert System | Standard | - |
| Stabilizer Bar | Standard | - |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Standard | - |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Voice Command | Via Smartphone | Standard |
| Voice Command Support | Via Smartphone Mirroring | Standard |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 11.5 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Manual Air Conditioning | Automatic AC |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | 4 | - |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Centre Console | Standard Centre Armrest | Not Available |
| Common Rail Injection | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) | Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Difflock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Digital Speedometer | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | Full Digital |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | Standard | - |
| Front Wipers Type | Standard | - |
| Glove Box | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not Available | Standard |
| Lift Gate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | Manual Air Conditioning | Automatic AC |
| Mirror | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | All Doors |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | Not Available | Standard |
| Power Socket 12v | 1 x 12V Socket | - |
| Powered Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Air Conditioning | Not Available | - |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Not Available | Standard |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Remote Central Locking | Standard |
| Remote Side Mirror | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | - |
| Rim Size | 15 Inches | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not Available | Not Available |
| Side Impact Bars | Standard | Standard |
| Sonar | Rear | Rear |
| Sound System | 6 | 4 |
| Source Model Column | baleno | starlet |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Standard | - |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Standard | - |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | Monocoque |
| Surround View Monitor | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| TPMS | Standard | Standard |
| Trim Level | flagship | top |
| Unlocking | Not Available | Standard |
| Variant Role | Flagship / premium derivative | Mid-to-high value derivative |
| Vdc | Standard | Standard |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not Available | Standard |
| Walk Away Lock | Not Available | Standard |
| Wireless Charger | Wireless Apple CarPlay | Optional |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Code | K15B | Market-specific engine family |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1462 cc | 996 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Multi-Point Injection | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Bore | 74 mm | 82.0 mm |
| Stroke | 85.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Maximum Power | 77 kW @ 6000 rpm | 72 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 138 Nm @ 4400 rpm | 140 Nm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.5 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | 15.5 sec |
| Drive Modes | Not Officially Disclosed | Eco, Comfort, Sport |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | 6500 rpm |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 78.2 kW/tonne | 71.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 140.1 Nm/tonne | 139.3 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Transverse Front-Mounted | Front Transverse |
| Gearbox | 4-Speed Automatic | CVT Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| LSD Available | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.388:1 | Not Applicable |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | 2.8 | - |
| Number of Gears | 4 | 4 |
| Transmission Type | 4-Speed Automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Single Dry Plate Diaphragm | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Type | 4-Speed Automatic | CVT Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD/ |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 4-Speed Automatic | CVT Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | FWD | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Transmission Speeds | 4 | 4 |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| City Mileage | 14.3 km/l | 13 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 20.8 km/l | 18 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 l | 40 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Standard |
| Real-world Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 37 | 40 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | 2 Rear ISOFIX Points | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Alarm System | Standard | Standard |
| Central Locking | Remote Central Locking | Standard |
| Side Impact Beams | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | All Seats | Not Available |
| Speed Alert System | Standard — Audible Warning at 120 km/h | - |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | Not Available | - |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Not Available |
| Safety Rating | Not Independently Rated | - |
| Whiplash Protection | Active Head Restraints on Front Seats | - |
| Lane Change Warning | Not Available | - |
| AEB | Not Available | Standard |
| BA | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Available | Not Available |
| Driver Airbag | 6 | 7 |
| EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | 6 | 7 |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | All Seats | Not Available |
| Seatbelt Reminder | All Seats | Not Available |
| Side Airbags | Not Available | Not Available |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| TCS | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Standard |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Standard | Standard |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | Rear | Rear |
| Rear View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Standard |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | Standard | Standard |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| EV Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Rear | Rear |
| Reverse Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | Not Available | Standard |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Camera | Not Available | - |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Rear | Rear |
| Parking Sensor | Rear | Rear |
| Pre-Collision System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Standard |
| Reverse Camera Type | 360-Degree Surround View | Standard |
| Reversing Camera | 360-Degree Surround View | Standard |
| Surround View Camera | 360-Degree Surround View Camera | Not Available |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leatherette Seat Covers | Fabric |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | Manual |
| Heated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Steering Type | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) | Electric |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | Height Adjustable |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60:40 Split Fold | 60/40 Split |
| Front Armrest | Standard Centre Armrest | Not Available |
| Rear Armrest | Integrated in Seat Back | Not Available |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1390 mm | Not Applicable |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1365 mm | Not Applicable |
| Cup Holders | 4 | - |
| Rear AC Vents | Not Available | - |
| Rear USB Ports | 0 | 2 |
| Steering Wheel Material | Urethane | Not Applicable |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | Full Digital |
| Interior Colour Options | 2 | 6 |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Not Available | - |
| Door Map Pockets | All Four Door Pockets | - |
| 60 40 Split Seat | 60:40 Split Fold | 60/40 Split |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | Manual |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | Manual |
| Fabric Seats | Leatherette Seat Covers | Fabric |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | Manual |
| Armrest Front | Standard Centre Armrest | Not Available |
| Armrest Rear | Integrated in Seat Back | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Down | 744 | - |
| Driver Seat | Manual 6-Way Driver Adjustment | Manual |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Panoramic sunroof on GL+, heads-up display on GL+, 9-inch touchscreen on GL+ with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control on GL+, paddle shifters on GL+, dual front airbags standard, ABS standard, rear | Touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Interior Trim Colour | 2 | - |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Leatherette Seat Covers | Fabric |
| Interior Colours | 2 | 6 |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Integrated in Seat Back | Not Available |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | Not Available | - |
| Seat Belt Warning | All Seats | - |
| Seat Fold Type | 60:40 Split Fold | 60/40 Split |
| Seat Trim | Leatherette Seat Covers | Fabric |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Wired Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Android Auto | Wired Android Auto | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 4 |
| Navigation System | Via Smartphone Mirroring | Standard |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 9-inch Digital Cluster | Full Digital |
| USB Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Wired Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Wired Android Auto | Standard |
| FM Radio | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Standard | - |
| Voice Recognition | Via Smartphone | Standard |
| AUX Input | Not Available | - |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not Available | - |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Standard | - |
| Infotainment Display | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Rear Usb | 2 | 2 |
| Audio | Standard | - |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 4 |
| Audio System | Standard | 4 |
| Display Audio | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Multi Information Display | Analogue with Digital Trip Display | Full Digital |
| Connected Services | Standard | Standard |
| Voice Control | Via Smartphone | Standard |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Wired Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Radio | Standard | - |
| Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED DRLs | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Front Fog Lamps | Standard |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Not Available |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not Available | Not Available |
| Body Cladding | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | 6 | 6 |
| Roof Type | Standard Fixed Roof | Not Available |
| Wing Mirror Type | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Mirrors | - |
| Rear Wiper | Standard | - |
| Door Handle Finish | Body-Coloured Door Handles | - |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| DRL | LED DRLs | LED |
| Fog Lights | Front Fog Lamps | Standard |
| Front Fog Lights | Front Fog Lamps | Standard |
| Led Headlights | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Auto Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED DRLs | LED |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | 5 | 7 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Body-Coloured Door Handles | - |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | All Four Windows | All Doors |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors | - |
| Front Fog Lamps | Front Fog Lamps | Standard |
| Headlamp Levelling | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Headlamps | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Headlight Type | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Headlights | LED Projector Headlamps | Full LED |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sunroof Slide | Not Available | - |
| Sunroof Tilt | Not Available | - |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 17 deg | - |
| Departure Angle | 22 deg | - |
| Wading Depth | 0 mm | - |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Underbody Protection | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 0 deg | - |
| Recovery Hooks | 1 Rear Tow Hook | - |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | 0 deg | - |
| Approach Angle Deg | 17 deg | - |
| Breakover Angle | 0 deg | Not Available |
| Departure Angle Deg | 22 deg | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | 150 mm | 162 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 150 mm | 162 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Wading Depth Mm | 0 mm | - |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 185/65 R15 | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Type | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full Size Spare | Full Size Steel |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 258 mm | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 200 mm | - |
| Parking Brake Type | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Tyre Load Index | 88 | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | - |
| Wheel Rim Size | 15 Inches | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Brake Type Front | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | Drum |
| Spare Tyre | Full Size Spare | Full Size Steel |
| Tyre Type | 185/65 R15 | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel Diameter | 15 Inches | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Auto Brake Hold | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not Available | Standard |
| Brakes | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Standard | Standard |
| Electric Park Brake | Conventional Handbrake | - |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Conventional Handbrake | Not Applicable |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Urethane | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Full Size Spare | Full Size Steel |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Standard | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Standard | - |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Urethane | - |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Wheel Material | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Wheel Size Type | 15 Inches | - |
| Wheels | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels | 15-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15,000 km or 12 Months | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| Approx Service Cost | Approx R2,000–R2,500 per Service | Approx R3,200 |
| Battery Warranty | 12 Months | Not Applicable |
| Maintenance Plan | Not Included | Optional |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.7 l | - |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 10,000 km or 6 Months | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| First Service At | 1,000 km Inspection | - |
| Service Plan Duration | Not Included | Optional |
| Service Plan Distance | Not Included | Optional |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Underbody Rust Protection | - |
| Service Plan | Not Included | Optional |
| Service Intervals | 15,000 km or 12 Months | 15,000 km or 1 Year |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | 3 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 3 Years Anti-Corrosion | 6 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | 3 Years |
| Warranty | 5 | 3 years / 100 000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years Roadside Assistance | 3 Years |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 133 g/km | 107 g/km |
| Start Stop System | Not Available | Standard |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Noise Level | 68 dB | 67 dB |
| Variable Valve Timing | VVT on Intake Camshaft | - |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | 93 RON Unleaded | Petrol |
| Particulate Filter | Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) | Not Available |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 5 |
| Green NCAP Rating | Not Independently Rated | - |
| Idle CO2 Output | Within Euro 5 Limits | 107 |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) | - |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 133 | 107 |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 6.0 l/100km | 14 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 8.0 l/100km | 17 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 4.5 l/100km | 17 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 6.0 l/100km | 20 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | 0 | 31 |
| Spec | Baleno | Starlet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Flagship | Top |
| Price Zar | 341900 ZAR | 319900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 341900 | 319900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 341900 | 319900 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Baleno and Starlet comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Baleno 34 vs Starlet 32.
Efficiency index: Baleno 67 vs Starlet 66.
Safety-equipment index: Baleno 87 vs Starlet 98.
Practicality index: Baleno 55 vs Starlet 53.
Ownership-cover index: Baleno 71 vs Starlet 43.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Baleno and Starlet image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Suzuki Baleno
View 8 more Baleno images
Toyota Starlet
View 8 more Starlet images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Baleno leads by 2 points
Baleno and Starlet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
61
/100
Lead
2
points
Data
89%
source coverage
61
#1
Evidence leader
Baleno
89% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 87
Check
Performance 34
Performance
34
Efficiency
67
Safety
87
Practicality
55
Ownership
71
Leads by 2 points
59
#2
Starlet
90% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 98
Check
Performance 32
Performance
32
Efficiency
66
Safety
98
Practicality
53
Ownership
43
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Baleno +2
Efficiency
Baleno +1
Safety
Starlet +11
Practicality
Baleno +2
Ownership
Baleno +28
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Baleno
Performance
34/100
Efficiency
67/100
Safety
87/100
Practicality
55/100
Ownership
71/100
Starlet
Performance
32/100
Efficiency
66/100
Safety
98/100
Practicality
53/100
Ownership
43/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
Suzuki Baleno
leads the specification evidence index with 61 pts
vs 59 pts for Starlet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Baleno leads. However, Starlet may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
Baleno vs Starlet questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.