Source type: Official OEM South Africa
Toyota Starlet vs Suzuki Swift Sport
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.
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VS
Suzuki Swift Sport
1.4 Turbo AT
Petrol
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 493,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 103 kW
🔧 230 Nm
⛽ 15.6 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Toyota Starlet vs Suzuki Swift Sport: the short answer
Starlet and Swift Sport are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Starlet starts ZAR 225,000 cheaper
Starlet from ZAR 244,900 · Swift Sport from ZAR 469,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Starlet72 kW @ 5500 rpm | Swift Sport103 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Starlet140 Nm | Swift Sport230 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
| Engine Size | Starlet996 cc | Swift Sport1373 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Starlet16.7 km/l | Swift Sport15.6 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Starlet162 mm | Swift Sport130 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)
Starlet
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Published Practicality
Specification evidence leader
Swift Sport
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Which One's Right for You?
Starlet
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Swift Sport
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2020 | 2019 |
| Generation | First generation Starlet in South Africa on B-segment platform | ZC33S-series Swift Sport — third generation of the Sport nameplate globally; K14D BoosterJet replaces the naturally-aspirated M16A used in the previous generation; significant step change in performance and specification over the prior model |
| Facelift History | Minor updates since launch | Current K14D BoosterJet-engined Swift Sport generation launched in SA in 2019; AT variant added to the SA range in 2021; no major mechanical updates since launch; specification aligned with global ZC33S series |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2021 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Color Note | White, Silver, Grey, Blue, Red, Orange | Champion Yellow, Super White Pearl, Speedy Blue, Midnight Black Pearl, Burning Red Pearl |
| Dealer Stock Note | Top grade in the South Africa lineup | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1005 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Drivetrain Note | - | Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 1.4 Turbo AT |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm | 3890 mm |
| Width | 1695 mm | 1735 mm |
| Height | 1520 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 162 mm | 130 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 125 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 37 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 265 l | 265 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1005 kg | 990 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1420 kg | 1390 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 415 kg | 420 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1600 kg | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 4.9 m | 4.8 m |
| Front Headroom | 982 mm | 965 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 955 mm | 962 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1030 mm | 1032 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 885 mm | 890 mm |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Rear Track Width | 1455 mm | 1510 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut — Sport Tuned |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam — Sport Tuned Dampers |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | HEARTECT Sport Monocoque |
| Power Steering | Electric | Electric Power Assisted Sport Tuned (EPAS) |
| Steering Column | Tilt Adjustable | Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | MacPherson Strut | Coil Spring — Sport Rate |
| Rear Spring Type | Torsion Beam | Coil Spring — Sport Rate |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | HEARTECT Sport Monocoque |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut — Sport Tuned |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | - |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam — Sport Tuned Dampers |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam | Torsion Beam — Sport Tuned Dampers |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut — Sport Tuned |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Uprated 20mm Sport Anti-Roll Bar |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Uprated 16mm Sport Anti-Roll Bar |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Bilstein Sport Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Bilstein Sport Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Automatic AC | Manual Air Conditioning |
| Power Windows | All Doors | All Four Windows |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Push Button Start |
| Wireless Charging | Optional | Not Available |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | Standard | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 265 l | 579 l |
| AC Type | Automatic AC | Manual Air Conditioning |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | - |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Standard | Not Available |
| Climate Zones | Automatic AC | Manual Air Conditioning |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | All Doors | All Four Windows |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Standard | Push Button Start |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Push Button Start |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Push Button Start |
| Engine Warranty | Not Applicable | 4 Years |
| Front Armrest | Not Available | Standard Sport Armrest |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 6 | 6.4 |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | - |
| Power Mirrors | All Doors | All Four Windows |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Push Button Start |
| Rear Seat Split | 60/40 Split | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Rear Wing | Not Available | Rear Roof Spoiler — Sport Design |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | - |
| Seat Type | Fabric | Alcantara Sport Seats with Bolstering |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spare Wheel | Full Size Steel | Space Saver Spare |
| Telescopic Steering | Height Adjustable | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Height Adjustable | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Voice Command | Standard | Via Smartphone |
| Voice Command Support | Standard | Via Smartphone Mirroring |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 12.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic AC | Manual Air Conditioning |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Centre Console | Not Available | Standard Sport Armrest |
| Common Rail Injection | Direct Injection | Direct Injection (DI) — BoosterJet |
| Diff Lock | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Difflock | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Digital Speedometer | Full Digital | 4.2-inch Colour LCD Info Display |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Standard | Smart Key System |
| 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 | Automatic AC | Manual Air Conditioning |
| Mirror | All Doors | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Powered Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Standard | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Rim Size | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17 Inches |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not Available | Not Available |
| Side Impact Bars | Standard | Standard |
| Sonar | Rear | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Sound System | 4 | 4 |
| Source Model Column | starlet | swift-sport |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | - |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Height Adjustable | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | HEARTECT Sport Monocoque |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | 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 | top | flagship |
| Unlocking | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Variant Role | Mid-to-high value derivative | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | Standard | Standard |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Walk Away Lock | Standard | Smart Key System |
| Wireless Charger | Optional | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 265 l | 579 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 | - | Standard |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Speed Limiter | - | Standard |
| Front Power Outlet | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Rear Defogger | - | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | All Seats |
| Speed Alert System | - | Standard |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Uprated 20mm Sport Anti-Roll Bar |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Standard |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Front Wiper | - | Standard |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Standard |
| Glove Box | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Power Socket 12v | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | Not Available |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Uprated 20mm Sport Anti-Roll Bar |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Uprated 16mm Sport Anti-Roll Bar |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol | 1.4-litre Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Code | Market-specific engine family | K14D |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 996 cc | 1373 cc |
| Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Direct Injection (DI) — BoosterJet |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Bore | 82.0 mm | 74 mm |
| Stroke | 94.6 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Maximum Power | 72 kW @ 5500 rpm | 103 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
| 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 | CVT | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 210 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 12.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 15.5 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Comfort, Sport | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | No | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | 6500 rpm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 71.6 kW/tonne | 104 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 139.3 Nm/tonne | 232.3 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 | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front Transverse | Transverse Front-Mounted |
| Gearbox | CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic Torque Converter |
| 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 | Sport Paddle Shifters on Steering Column |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Applicable | 4.062:1 |
| Number of Gears | 4 | 6 |
| Transmission Type | Continuously Variable Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Single Dry Plate Diaphragm |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Type | CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic Torque Converter |
| Drivetrain | FWD/ | Two-wheel drive |
| 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 | Sport Paddle Shifters on Steering Column |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic Torque Converter |
| 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 | 6 |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 2.5 |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 16.7 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| City Mileage | 13 km/l | 12.2 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 18 km/l | 18.2 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 37 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Standard | Not Applicable |
| Real-world Mileage | 16.7 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 40 | 37 |
| 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 | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 7 | 6 |
| 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 | Standard | 2 Rear ISOFIX Points |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Alarm System | Standard | Standard |
| Central Locking | Standard | Remote Central Locking with Smart Key |
| Side Impact Beams | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Not Available | All Seats |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Not Available |
| AEB | Standard | Not Available |
| BA | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Available | Not Available |
| Driver Airbag | 7 | 6 |
| EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | 7 | 6 |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Not Available |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Not Available | All Seats |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Not Available | All Seats |
| Side Airbags | Not Available | Not Available |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| TCS | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Not Available |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Standard | Standard |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 7 | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 7 | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Speed Alert System | - | Standard |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Not Available |
| Safety Rating | - | Not Independently Rated |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Active Head Restraints |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Not Available |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Not Available |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Not Available |
| Parking Sensors | Rear | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Standard | Not Available |
| 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 Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | Standard | Not Available |
| Emergency Braking | Standard | Not Available |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Rear | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Parking Sensor | Rear | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Pre-Collision System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Standard |
| Reverse Camera Type | Standard | Standard |
| Reversing Camera | Standard | Standard |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Camera | - | Not Available |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Fabric | Alcantara Sport Seats with Bolstering |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual 4-Way with Sport Bucket Profile |
| Heated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Steering Type | Electric | Electric Power Assisted Sport Tuned (EPAS) |
| Steering Adjustment | Height Adjustable | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60/40 Split | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | Not Available | Standard Sport Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | Not Available | Integrated in Seat Back |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1370 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1345 mm |
| Rear USB Ports | 2 | 0 |
| Steering Wheel Material | Not Applicable | Leather-Wrapped Sport Steering Wheel |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Full Digital | 4.2-inch Colour LCD Info Display |
| Interior Colour Options | 6 | 1 |
| 60 40 Split Seat | 60/40 Split | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | Manual 4-Way with Sport Bucket Profile |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual 4-Way with Sport Bucket Profile |
| Fabric Seats | Fabric | Alcantara Sport Seats with Bolstering |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | Manual 4-Way with Sport Bucket Profile |
| Armrest Front | Not Available | Standard Sport Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | Not Available | Integrated in Seat Back |
| Driver Seat | Manual | Manual 4-Way with Sport Bucket Profile |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Alcantara sports seats with red stitching, flat-bottomed sport steering wheel, 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, sport-specific instrument display with boost gauge and oil temperature, dual exhaust |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Fabric | Alcantara Sport Seats with Bolstering |
| Interior Colours | 6 | 1 |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Not Available | Integrated in Seat Back |
| Seat Fold Type | 60/40 Split | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Seat Trim | Fabric | Alcantara Sport Seats with Bolstering |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | Not Available |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Not Available |
| Door Map Pockets | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 579 |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | 1 |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Not Available |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | All Seats |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Android Auto | Standard | Wired Android Auto |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 4 | 4 |
| Navigation System | Standard | Via Smartphone Mirroring |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Full Digital | 4.2-inch Colour LCD |
| USB Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Wired Android Auto |
| Voice Recognition | Standard | Via Smartphone |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| Infotainment Display | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| Rear Usb | 2 | 2 |
| Audio Speakers | 4 | 4 |
| Audio System | 4 | Standard |
| Display Audio | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| Multi Information Display | Full Digital | 4.2-inch Colour LCD Info Display |
| Connected Services | Standard | Standard |
| Voice Control | Standard | Via Smartphone |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Standard | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen |
| FM Radio | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Standard |
| AUX Input | - | Not Available |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | Not Available |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Standard |
| Audio | - | Standard |
| Radio | - | Standard |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | LED DRLs |
| Fog Lamps | Standard | Front Fog Lamps |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Not Available |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17-inch BBS Sport Alloy Wheels (Exclusive Design) |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not Available | Not Available |
| Body Cladding | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Rear Roof Spoiler — Sport Design |
| Exterior Colour Options | 6 | 4 |
| Roof Type | Not Available | Standard Fixed Roof |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| DRL | LED | LED DRLs |
| Fog Lights | Standard | Front Fog Lamps |
| Front Fog Lights | Standard | Front Fog Lamps |
| Led Headlights | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Auto Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | Standard | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | LED DRLs |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | 7 | 5 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | All Doors | All Four Windows |
| Front Fog Lamps | Standard | Front Fog Lamps |
| Headlamp Levelling | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Headlamps | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Headlight Type | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Headlights | Full LED | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | - |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Rear Roof Spoiler — Sport Design |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electrically Adjustable Body-Coloured Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Rear Wiper | - | Standard |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Sunroof Slide | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Tilt | - | Not Available |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 17 deg |
| Breakover Angle | Not Available | 0 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 22 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | 162 mm | 130 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 162 mm | 130 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 |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | 1 Rear Tow Hook |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 195/55 R16 | 195/45 R17 |
| Wheel Type | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17-inch BBS Sport Alloy Wheels (Exclusive Design) |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Solid Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full Size Steel | Space Saver Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17 Inches |
| Brake Type Front | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | Solid Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Full Size Steel | Space Saver Spare |
| Tyre Type | 195/55 R16 | 195/45 R17 |
| Wheel Diameter | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17 Inches |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Standard | Not Available |
| Brakes | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Standard | Standard |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Not Applicable | Conventional Handbrake |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Full Size Steel | Space Saver Spare |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not Available | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Wheel Material | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17-inch BBS Sport Alloy Wheels (Exclusive Design) |
| Wheels | 15-inch Alloy Wheels | 17-inch BBS Sport Alloy Wheels (Exclusive Design) |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 300 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 259 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 81 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | Y |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather-Wrapped Sport Steering Wheel |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather-Wrapped Sport Steering Wheel |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 17 Inches |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15,000 km or 1 Year | 15,000 km or 12 Months |
| Approx Service Cost | Approx R3,200 | Approx R2,500–R3,500 per Service |
| Battery Warranty | Not Applicable | 12 Months |
| Maintenance Plan | Optional | Not Included |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 15,000 km or 1 Year | 10,000 km or 6 Months |
| Service Plan Duration | Optional | Not Included |
| Service Plan Distance | Optional | Not Included |
| Service Plan | Optional | Not Included |
| Service Intervals | 15,000 km or 1 Year | 15,000 km or 12 Months |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 3.7 l |
| First Service At | - | 1,000 km Inspection |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Underbody Rust Protection |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 3 years / 100 000 km | 5 |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 years / 100 000 km | 5 |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 6 Years | 3 Years Anti-Corrosion |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 100 000 km | 5 |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Warranty | 3 years / 100 000 km | 5 |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 107 g/km | 147 g/km |
| Start Stop System | Standard | Not Available |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Noise Level | 67 dB | 70 dB |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Petrol | 95 RON Unleaded |
| Particulate Filter | Not Available | Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 5 |
| Idle CO2 Output | 107 | Within Euro 5 Limits |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 107 | 147 |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | Dual VVT on Intake and Exhaust |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | Not Independently Rated |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 14 l/100km | 7.0 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 17 l/100km | 9.5 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 17 l/100km | 5.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 20 l/100km | 7.0 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | 31 | 0 |
| Spec | Starlet | Swift Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Top | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 319900 ZAR | 493900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 319900 | 493900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 319900 | 493900 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Starlet and Swift Sport 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: Starlet 32 vs Swift Sport 50.
Efficiency index: Starlet 66 vs Swift Sport 60.
Safety-equipment index: Starlet 98 vs Swift Sport 87.
Practicality index: Starlet 53 vs Swift Sport 50.
Ownership-cover index: Starlet 43 vs Swift Sport 71.
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
Starlet and Swift Sport image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Toyota Starlet
View 8 more Starlet images
Suzuki Swift Sport
View 8 more Swift Sport 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
Swift Sport leads by 4 points
Starlet and Swift Sport are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
63
/100
Lead
4
points
Data
89%
source coverage
63
#1
Evidence leader
Swift Sport
89% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 87
Check
Performance 50
Performance
50
Efficiency
60
Safety
87
Practicality
50
Ownership
71
Leads by 4 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
Swift Sport +18
Efficiency
Starlet +6
Safety
Starlet +11
Practicality
Starlet +3
Ownership
Swift Sport +28
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Swift Sport
Performance
50/100
Efficiency
60/100
Safety
87/100
Practicality
50/100
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 Swift Sport
leads the specification evidence index with 63 pts
vs 59 pts for Starlet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Swift Sport leads. However, Starlet may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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Starlet vs Swift Sport 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.