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.
Tank 500 has a large lead in Hagalu's source-backed catalogue index over Starlet.
Starlet starts ZAR 905,000 cheaperStarlet from ZAR 244,900 · Tank 500 from ZAR 1,149,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivatives
Swipe sideways to compare every column
Specification
Starlet
Tank 500
Maximum Power
Starlet72 kW @ 5500 rpm
Tank 500340 kW @ 5500 rpm
Maximum Torque
Starlet140 Nm
Tank 500750 Nm
Engine Size
Starlet996 cc
Tank 5002999 cc
Combined Fuel Economy
Starlet16.7 km/l
Tank 50040 km/l
Ground Clearance
Starlet162 mm
Tank 500224 mm
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
Toyota Starlet
1.0T XR CVT
Hagalu editorial ratingNot yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Starlet
Strengths
Nothing stands out clearly here.
Weak Spots
Less powerful engine setup
Lower fuel efficiency
Fewer listed safety features
Lower published practicality figures
Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:General Use
Specification evidence leader
Tank 500
Strengths
More powerful engine output
Better fuel efficiency
Stronger listed safety equipment
Stronger published practicality figures
Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
No obvious weak spots to flag.
Best suited to:Published PerformancePublished EfficiencyPublished Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
Starlet
Buyers who prefer this derivative's confirmed specification mix
Tank 500
Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
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
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
Tank 500
360 Degree Camera
Not Available
Yes
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not Available
Yes
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not Available
Yes
Around View Monitor
Not Available
Yes
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Standard
Yes
Auto Lights
Standard
Yes
Auto Wipers
Standard
Yes
Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard
Yes
Blind Spot Warning
Standard
Yes
Cruise Control
Not Available
Yes
Driver Fatigue Alert
Not Available
Yes
Emergency Braking
Standard
Yes
EV Mode
Not Available
Yes
Lane Departure Warning
Not Available
Yes
Lane Keep Assist
Not Available
Yes
Parking Distance Sensors
Rear
Front and Rear
Parking Sensor
Rear
Front and Rear
Parking Sensors
Rear
Front and Rear
Pre-Collision System
Not Available
Yes
Rain Sensor Wipers
Standard
Yes
Rear View Camera
Standard
Yes
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Standard
Yes
Rear View Camera
Standard
Yes
Reverse Camera
Standard
Yes
Reverse Camera Type
Standard
Yes
Reversing Camera
Standard
Yes
Surround View Camera
Not Available
Yes
Traffic Sign Recognition
Not Available
Yes
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear
Yes
Auto Highbeam
Not Available
Yes
Park Assist
Not Available
Yes
Forward Collision Warning
Not Available
Yes
Attention Assist
-
Yes
Automatic High Beam
-
Yes
Auto Park Assist
-
No
Eco Mode
-
Yes
Front Camera
-
Yes
Sport Mode
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
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
Yes
Axle Layout
FWD
AWD
Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Yes
Differential Type Front
Not Available
-
Differential Type Rear
Not Available
-
Drivetrain
FWD/
All Wheel Drive (Hi4-T Hybrid)
Drivetrain Layout
Front Wheel Drive
Front Engine All Wheel Drive
Engine Position
Front Transverse
Front Transverse
Front Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Yes
Number of Gears
4
9
Gear Shift Type
CVT Automatic
Automatic
Gearbox
CVT Automatic
9-Speed Automatic
Gearbox Type
CVT Automatic
9-Speed Automatic
LSD Available
Not Applicable
Yes
Low Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Low Range Ratio
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Paddle Shifters
Not Applicable
Yes
Rear Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Yes
Transfer Case
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Transfer Case Guard
Not Available
-
Transmission Speeds
4
9
Transmission Type
Continuously Variable Transmission
Automatic
Final Drive Ratio
Not Applicable
3.73
Clutch Type
Not Applicable
Torque Converter
Gear Shift Indicator
Not Applicable
Yes
Drive Mode Selector
-
4WD/off-road drive mode support
Reverse Gear Warning
-
Yes
Steering Turns Lock to Lock
-
14.7:1
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
4WD System Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Approach Angle
-
33 deg
Approach Angle Deg
-
33 deg
Crawl Control
Not Available
-
Departure Angle
-
28 deg
Departure Angle Deg
-
28 deg
Energy Recovery Display
Not Available
-
Front Skid Plate Guard
Not Available
-
Ground Clearance Max
162 mm
280 mm
Ground Clearance Min
162 mm
224 mm
Hill Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
Locking Differential
Not Applicable
Yes
Off Road Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
Off Road Traction Assist
Not Available
Not Available
Rear Skid Plate Guard
Not Available
-
Skid Plates Fuel Tank
Not Available
Yes
Skid Plates Transfer Case
Not Available
-
Terrain Mode Mud
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Normal
Not Available
-
Terrain Mode Rock
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Sand
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Snow
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Modes
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Response System
Not Available
-
Underbody Camera
Not Available
Yes
Underbody Protection
Not Available
Yes
Wading Depth
-
800 mm
Wading Depth Mm
-
800 mm
Breakover Angle
Not Available
22 deg
Breakover Angle Deg
-
22 deg
Ramp Breakover Angle
-
22 deg
Ramp-over Angle
-
22 deg
Recovery Hooks
-
No
Skid Plates Front
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
60 40 Split Seat
60/40 Split
Yes
Adjustable Driver Seat
Manual
Yes
Ambient Lighting
Not Applicable
Yes
Front Armrest
Not Available
Yes
Armrest Front
Not Available
Folding with storage
Armrest Rear
Not Available
Centre folding with cupholders
Driver Seat
Manual
Yes
Driver Seat Adjustment
Manual
12-Way Electric
Fabric Seats
Fabric
No
Folding Rear Seats
60/40 Split
60/40 Split
Heated Seats
Not Applicable
Yes
Instrument Cluster Type
Full Digital
Digital Instrument Cluster
Interior Colour Options
6
2
Interior Colours
6
2
Interior Courtesy Lamps
Touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Quilted Nappa leather upholstery. 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Full digital instrument cluster with multi-display configurations. Head-up display. Ventilated and heated front
Leather Accented Seat Trim
Fabric
Nappa Leather
Rear Armrest
Not Available
Yes
Rear Seat Centre Armrest
Not Available
Yes
Seat Adjustment
Manual
Yes
Seat Fold Type
60/40 Split
60/40 Split
Seat Material
Fabric
Nappa Leather
Seat Trim
Fabric
Nappa Leather
Steering Adjustment
Height Adjustable
Tilt and Telescopic
Steering Type
Electric
Yes
Rear USB Ports
2
Yes
Ventilated Seats
Not Applicable
Yes
Front Shoulder Room
Not Applicable
1520 mm
Rear Shoulder Room
Not Applicable
1480 mm
Passenger Seat Adjustment
Manual
4-Way Manual
Steering Wheel Material
Not Applicable
Leather Wrapped
Adjustable Front Seat
-
Yes
Boot Space Seats Down
-
780
Cargo Net
-
No
Cooled Seats
-
Yes
Cup Holders
-
Yes
Front Headrest
-
Adjustable
Interior Courtesy Lights
-
LED
Interior Trim Colour
-
Black with silver accents
Leather Seats
-
Yes
Driver Lumbar Support
-
Yes
Door Map Pockets
-
Yes
Massage Seat Front
-
Yes
Memory Seats
-
Yes
Rear AC Vents
-
Yes
Rear Headrest
-
Adjustable
Rear Seat Entertainment
-
No
Rear Seat Ventilation
-
No
Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest
-
Yes
Seat Adjustment Driver Fore Aft
-
Yes
Seat Adjustment Driver Height
-
Yes
Seat Belt Warning
-
Yes
Seat Heating Rear
-
Yes
Seat Ventilation Rear
-
Yes
Third Row Seating Capacity
-
0
Third Row Seats
-
No
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
ABS
Standard
Yes
ABS EBD
Standard
Yes
AEB
Standard
Yes
Airbags
7
8
Alarm System
Standard
Yes
Anti Theft Alarm
Standard
Yes
BA
Standard
Yes
Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard
Yes
Brake Assist
Standard
Yes
Central Locking
Standard
Yes
Child Safety Lock
Standard
Yes
Driver Front Passenger Airbags
7
8
Driver Passenger Airbags
7
8
Engine Immobiliser
Standard
Yes
Electronic Stability Control
Standard
Yes
ESC With Traction Control
Standard
Yes
Hill Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
Hill Hold
Standard
Yes
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Yes
Engine Immobiliser
Standard
Yes
ISOFIX Mounts
Standard
Yes
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Standard
Yes
Side Impact Beams
Standard
Yes
Stability Control
Standard
Yes
TCS
Standard
Yes
Traction Control
Standard
Yes
Tyre Pressure Monitor
Standard
Yes
Driver Airbag
7
Yes
Passenger Airbag
7
Yes
EBD
Standard
Yes
Side Airbags
Not Available
Yes
Curtain Airbags
Not Available
Yes
Knee Airbag
Not Available
No
Brake Override System
Not Available
Yes
Seatbelt Warning All Seats
Not Available
Yes
Seatbelt Reminder
Not Available
Yes
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Not Available
Yes
Front Parking Sensors
Not Available
Yes
Fatigue Detection
-
Yes
Lane Change Warning
-
Yes
Safety Rating
-
5
Pedestrian Detection AEB
-
Yes
Speed Alert System
-
Yes
Tracking System
-
Optional
Whiplash Protection
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
AC Type
Automatic AC
Yes
Accelerator 0 100
12.0 sec
340 sec
Adaptive Dampers
Not Available
Yes
Air Conditioning
Automatic AC
Yes
Auto Dimming Irvm
Standard
Yes
Auto Dimming Mirror
Standard
Yes
Automatic Headlamps
Standard
Yes
Battery Preconditioning
Not Available
-
Bed Extender
Not Available
Not Available
Canopy Fitment
Not Available
Not Available
Centre Console
Not Available
Full-length with storage
Climate Control
Automatic AC
Yes
Climate Zones
Automatic AC
3
Common Rail Injection
Direct Injection
Direct Injection
Diff Lock
Not Applicable
Yes
Difflock
Not Applicable
Yes
Digital Speedometer
Full Digital
Yes
Electric Tailgate
Not Available
Yes
Engine Start Button Illumination
Standard
Yes
Engine Start Stop
Standard
Yes
Engine Start Stop Button
Standard
Yes
Engine Warranty
Not Applicable
5 Years / 100,000 km
Front Armrest
Not Available
Yes
Front Diff Lock
Not Available
Yes
Fuel Consumption Combined
6
2.5
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Yes
Intelligent Battery System
Not Available
-
Intelligent Keyless Entry
Standard
Yes
Keyless Entry
Standard
Yes
Lift Gate
Not Available
Yes
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 Rope Hooks
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Tiedown Brackets
Not Available
Not Available
Manual Aircon
Automatic AC
Yes
Mirror
All Doors
Electric Adjustable
One Pedal Driving
Not Available
-
Panoramic Roof
Not Available
Yes
Passive Entry Start
Standard
Yes
Performance Data Logger
Not Available
No
Power Mirrors
All Doors
Yes
Power Windows
All Doors
Yes
Powered Tailgate
Not Available
Yes
Push Button Start
Standard
Yes
Push Button Start
Standard
Yes
Rain Sensing Wipers
Standard
Yes
Rear Diff Lock
Not Available
Yes
Rear Electric Motor
Not Available
-
Rear Seat Split
60/40 Split
60/40
Rear Wing
Not Available
Integrated Spoiler
Rearview Mirror Inside
Standard
Yes
Regenerative Braking Levels
Not Available
-
Remote Central Locking
Standard
Yes
Rev Matching
Not Available
No
Roof Rack Compatibility
Not Available
Yes
Seat Type
Fabric
High Bolster Sports Seat
Side Impact Bars
Standard
Yes
Skid Plates
Not Available
Yes
Sonar
Rear
Front and Rear
Sound System
4
12
Source Model Column
starlet
tank-500
Spare Wheel
Full Size Steel
Yes
Sport Plus Mode
Not Available
Not Available
Sports Bar
Not Available
Not Available
Steering Column Adjustment
Height Adjustable
Tilt and Telescopic
Sub Frame
Monocoque
Body on Frame Ladder Chassis
Sunroof
Not Available
Yes
Surround View Monitor
Not Available
Yes
Tailgate Damper
Not Available
Not Available
Tailgate Lock
Not Available
Not Available
Telescopic Steering
Height Adjustable
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt Steering
Height Adjustable
Tilt and Telescopic
Tow Bar Type
Not Available
Receiver hitch compatible
TPMS
Standard
Yes
Trim Level
top
flagship
Unlocking
Standard
Yes
Variant Role
Mid-to-high value derivative
Flagship / premium derivative
Vdc
Standard
Yes
Vehicle To Grid
Not Available
-
Vehicle To Load
Not Available
-
Voice Command
Standard
Yes
Voice Command Support
Standard
Yes
Walk Away Auto Door Lock
Standard
Yes
Walk Away Lock
Standard
Yes
Wireless Charger
Optional
Yes
Wireless Charging
Optional
Yes
Electric Folding Mirrors
All Doors
Yes
Load Bed Length
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Load Bed Width
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Loadbox Length Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Loadbox Width Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Boot Space Seats Folded
265 l
780 l
Rim Size
15-inch Alloy Wheels
22
12V Accessory Socket
-
Yes
Active Safety Alert
-
Yes
Aero Kit
-
No
Ambient Light Zones
-
Multi-zone
Automatic High Beam
-
Yes
Boot Opener
-
Yes
Bottle Holders
-
Yes
Chrome Exterior Highlights
-
Yes
Chrome Grille
-
Yes
Coat Hooks Rear
-
Yes
Cornering Lights
-
Yes
Door Ajar Warning
-
Yes
Door Sill Trim
-
Aluminium
Drag Coefficient
-
0.38
Driver Display
-
Digital
Driver Drowsiness Detection
-
Yes
Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors
-
Electric
Engine Check Warning
-
Yes
Follow Me Home Headlamps
-
Yes
Follow Me Home Lights
-
Yes
Front Power Outlet
-
Yes
Front Reading Lamps
-
Yes
Front Wiper
-
Yes
Front Wipers Type
-
Variable intermittent
Fuel Lid Opener
-
Yes
Glove Box
-
Lockable illuminated
Glovebox Cooling
-
No
Grab Handles Rear
-
Yes
Headlamp Height Adjust
-
Yes
Headlamp Washer
-
No
Headrest Adjustable
-
Yes
Headrest Front
-
Adjustable
Headrest Rear
-
Adjustable
Heads Up Display
-
Yes
Heated Mirrors
-
Yes
Horn Type
-
Electric
Impact Sensing Door Unlock
-
Yes
Intelligent Speed Assist
-
Yes
Intercooler
-
Yes
Low Speed Manoeuvring Assist
-
Yes
Electric Mirror Folding
-
Electric
Multi Function Steering
-
Yes
Oil Pressure Warning
-
Yes
Pedal Covers
-
Aluminium-style
Power Socket 12v
-
Yes
Puddle Lights
-
Yes
Reading Lights Front
-
Yes
Reading Lights Rear
-
Yes
Rear Air Conditioning
-
Yes
Rear Defogger
-
Yes
Rear LED Combination Taillights
-
Yes
Rear Reading Lamps
-
Yes
Rear Window Defroster
-
Yes
Refrigerated Console
-
Yes
Remote Engine Start
-
Yes
Remote Side Mirror
-
Yes
Remote Start
-
No
Rev Counter
-
Yes
Ride Mode Selection
-
Yes
Roof Antenna
-
Shark Fin Antenna
Roof Load
-
50 kg
Driver Seat Height Adjustment
-
Yes
Seatbelt Pre Tensioner
-
Yes
Service Reminder
-
Yes
Side Steps
-
Yes
Speed Alert System
-
Yes
Speed Limiter
-
Yes
Stabilizer Bar
-
Yes
Stabilizer Bar Front
-
Yes
Stabilizer Bar Rear
-
Yes
Steering Mounted Controls
-
Yes
Steering Response
-
Progressive
Sunvisors
-
Dual with vanity mirrors
Tachometer
-
Yes
Tail Lamps
-
Yes
Temperature Gauge
-
Yes
Three Zone Climate
-
Yes
Tie Down Hooks
-
Yes
Trailer Stability Assist
-
Confirmed 4WD derivative
Trailer Sway Control
-
Confirmed 4WD derivative
Trip Computer
-
Yes
Tyre Repair Kit
-
No
Vanity Mirror
-
Yes
Vanity Mirror Illuminated
-
Yes
Welcome Lighting
-
Yes
Boot Space Seats Folded
265 l
780 l
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Active Exhaust
Not Available
Not Available
Alloy Wheel Design
15-inch Alloy Wheels
5-Spoke Premium Alloy
Auto Headlights
Standard
Yes
Automatic Headlamps
Standard
Yes
Body Cladding
Not Available
Yes
Body Type
Hatchback
SUV
Chrome Exterior Finish
Not Available
Yes
Daytime Running Lamps
LED
Yes
Daytime Running Lights
LED
Yes
DRL
LED
Yes
Electric Blind Sunroof
Not Available
Metal Roof
Exterior Colour Options
6
6
Exterior Colour Options
7
6
Exterior Mirror Electric
All Doors
Yes
Fog Lamps
Standard
Yes
Fog Lights
Standard
Yes
Front Fog Lamps
Standard
Yes
Front Fog Lights
Standard
Yes
Headlamp Levelling
Full LED
Yes
Headlamps
Full LED
Yes
Headlight Type
Full LED
Yes
Headlights
Full LED
Yes
LED Headlamps
Full LED
Yes
Led Headlights
Full LED
Yes
Load Bed Liner
Not Available
Not Available
Panoramic Sunroof
Not Available
Yes
Rear Spoiler
Not Available
Yes
Roof Rails
Not Available
Yes
Roof Type
Not Available
Metal Roof
Rear Spoiler
Not Available
Yes
Door Handle Finish
-
Body Coloured
Exterior Door Handle Colour
-
Body Coloured
Exterior Mirror Folding
-
Electric
Front Overhang
-
880 mm
Led Taillights
-
Yes
Wing Mirror Type
-
Electric Adjustable
Rear Fog Lights
-
Yes
Rear Overhang
-
890 mm
Rear Wiper
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
AdBlue Tank Capacity
Not Applicable
No
Charging Port Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
City Mileage
13 km/l
28.6 km/l
Claimed Mileage
16.7 km/l
40 km/l
Combined Driving Range
Not Applicable
135
Electric Consumption
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Emission Standard
Euro 5
Euro 5
Fuel Tank Capacity
40 l
80 l
Fuel Tank Litres
40
80
Highway Mileage
18 km/l
47.6 km/l
Range Real World Highway
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Real World Mixed
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Real-world Mileage
16.7 km/l
40 km/l
Auto Start Stop
Standard
Yes
Distance To Empty
-
Yes
Fuel Filler Cap
-
Lockable
Low Fuel Warning
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Android Auto
Standard
Yes
Apple CarPlay
Standard
Yes
Audio Speakers
4
12
Audio System
4
Yes
Bluetooth Connectivity
Standard
Yes
Connected Services
Standard
Yes
Digital Instrument Cluster
Full Digital
Yes
Display Audio
9-inch Touchscreen
Yes
Front Rear USB Charge Ports
2
4
Infotainment System
9-inch Touchscreen
Yes
Infotainment Display
9-inch Touchscreen
14.6-inch Touchscreen
Infotainment Screen
9-inch Touchscreen
Yes
Multi Information Display
Full Digital
Digital Instrument Cluster
Navigation System
Standard
Yes
Rear Usb
2
Yes
Infotainment Screen Size
9-inch Touchscreen
Yes
Smartphone Connectivity
Standard
Yes
Number of Speakers
4
12
Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Yes
USB Ports
2
4
Voice Control
Standard
Yes
Voice Recognition
Standard
Yes
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Standard
Yes
Wireless Android Auto
Standard
Yes
Audio
-
Yes
Audio Controls On Steering
-
Yes
FM Radio
-
Yes
Head Up Display
-
Yes
Premium Audio
-
Yes
Radio
-
Yes
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
-
Yes
Wi-Fi Hotspot
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
6 Years
6 Years
Basic Warranty
3 years / 100 000 km
5 Years / 100,000 km
Roadside Assistance
3 Years
Yes
Roadside Assistance
3 Years
Yes
Warranty
3 years / 100 000 km
5 Years / 100,000 km
Warranty Kilometers
3 years / 100 000 km
5 Years / 100,000 km
Warranty Roadside Assistance
3 Years
Yes
Warranty Years
3 years / 100 000 km
5 Years / 100,000 km
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Autonomous Emergency Brake
Standard
Yes
Brake Type Front
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Brake Type Rear
Drum
Ventilated Disc
Brakes
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Cornering Brake Control
Standard
Yes
Fifth Wheel Prep
Not Available
Not Available
Front Brake Type
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Hydraulic Brake Assist
Standard
Yes
Rear Brake Type
Drum
Disc
Spare Tyre
Full Size Steel
Yes
Spare Wheel Size Type
Full Size Steel
Alloy
Spare Wheel Type
Full Size Steel
Yes
Steering Wheel Cruise Controls
Not Available
Yes
Tyre Pressure Display
Standard
Yes
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
Standard
Yes
Tyre Size
195/55 R16
285/45R22
Tyre Type
195/55 R16
Highway All-Terrain
Wheel Material
15-inch Alloy Wheels
5-Spoke Premium Alloy
Wheel Type
15-inch Alloy Wheels
5-Spoke Premium Alloy
Wheels
15-inch Alloy Wheels
5-Spoke Premium Alloy
Wheel Rim Size
15-inch Alloy Wheels
22
Handbrake Type
Not Applicable
Electronic parking brake
Wheel Diameter
15-inch Alloy Wheels
22
Auto Brake Hold
-
Yes
Electric Park Brake
-
Electronic
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
-
Yes
Front Brake Disc Diameter
-
308 mm
Front Tyre Width
-
285 mm
Leather Steering Wheel
-
Leather Wrapped
Parking Brake Type
-
Electronic
Rear Brake Drum Diameter
-
292 mm
Rear Tyre Width
-
285 mm
Spare Wheel Location
-
Under vehicle / boot floor
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
-
Yes
Steering Wheel Phone Controls
-
Yes
Steering Wheel Trim
-
Leather Wrapped
Tyre Load Index
-
114
Tyre Speed Rating
-
V
Wheel Cover
-
Alloy
Wheel Locking Nuts
-
Yes
Wheel Size Type
-
22
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Battery Warranty
Not Applicable
8 Years / 160,000 km
Maintenance Plan
Optional
5 Years / 75,000 km
Engine Oil Change Interval
15,000 km or 1 Year
10,000 km
Approx Service Cost
Approx R3,200
Included in Service Plan
Service Interval
15,000 km or 1 Year
10000
Service Intervals
15,000 km or 1 Year
10000
Service Plan
Optional
5 Years / 75,000 km
Service Plan Distance
Optional
5 Years / 75,000 km
Service Plan Duration
Optional
5 Years / 75,000 km
Alternator
-
110A
Anti-Rust Treatment
-
Yes
First Service At
-
5000
Engine Oil Capacity
-
7.5 l
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Body Style
Hatchback
SUV
Color Note
White, Silver, Grey, Blue, Red, Orange
Crystal White, Hamilton Black, Pittsburgh Silver, Cosmos Grey, Atlantic Blue and Adventure Olive Green. Two-tone roof options available with selected base colours.
Dealer Stock Note
Top grade in the South Africa lineup
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Model Year
2026
2026
Segment
Hatchback
SUV
Tare Mass Kg
1005 kg
2680 kg
Vehicle Type
Hatchback
SUV
Model Introduced Year
2020
2025
Generation
First generation Starlet in South Africa on B-segment platform
First generation Tank 500, launched globally in 2023 and brought to South Africa in 2025. Local specification leans toward maximum equipment loading and softer suspension calibration versus the Chinese-domestic version.
Facelift History
Minor updates since launch
Recently launched into the SA market in 2025; no facelift to date. Software updates expected to refine hybrid system behaviour and adaptive air suspension calibration based on early SA fleet feedback.
Facelift Version Ending
Current
Current
Facelift Launched Since
Original current-generation version
2025
Production Status
active
published
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Boot/Cargo Space
265 l
580 l
Doors
5 doors
5 doors
Fuel Tank Capacity
40 l
80 l
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
1420 kg
3200 kg
Ground Clearance (Default)
162 mm
224 mm
Height
1520 mm
1905 mm
Kerb Weight
1005 kg
2680 kg
Length
3995 mm
5060 mm
Seating Capacity
5 seats
5 seats
Minimum Turning Radius
4.9 m
13 m
Wheelbase
2520 mm
2950 mm
Width
1695 mm
1996 mm
Payload Capacity
415 kg
855 kg
Number of Rows
2 rows
2 rows
Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load)
125 mm
204 mm
Towing Capacity
1600 kg
3000 kg
Front Headroom
982 mm
990 mm
Rear Headroom
955 mm
960 mm
Front Legroom
1030 mm
1050 mm
Rear Legroom
885 mm
890 mm
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Chassis Material
Monocoque
Body on Frame Ladder Chassis
Chassis Type
Monocoque
Body on Frame Ladder Chassis
Front Spring Type
MacPherson Strut
Coil Spring
Front Suspension
MacPherson Strut
Double Wishbone with Adaptive Dampers
Front Suspension Type
MacPherson Strut
Double Wishbone with Adaptive Dampers
Front Track Width
1470 mm
1560 mm
MagneRide Damping
Not Available
Not Available
Power Steering
Electric
Yes
Rear Axle Type
Torsion Beam
Multi-Link with Adaptive Dampers
Rear Spring Type
Torsion Beam
Air Spring
Rear Suspension
Torsion Beam
Multi-Link with Adaptive Dampers
Rear Suspension Type
Torsion Beam
Multi-Link with Adaptive Dampers
Rear Track Width
1455 mm
1570 mm
Steering Column
Tilt Adjustable
Adjustable
Suspension
MacPherson Strut
Double Wishbone with Adaptive Dampers
Air Suspension
-
Yes
Air Suspension Modes
-
5
Front Anti-Roll Bar
-
Yes
Rear Anti-Roll Bar
-
Yes
Shock Absorber Type
-
Hydraulic
Shock Absorbers
-
Hydraulic
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
CO2 Emissions
107 g/km
58 g/km
CO2 Emissions G Km
107
58
Euro Emission Standard
Euro 5
Euro 5
Hybrid System Type
Not Applicable
Plug-In Hybrid AWD (Hi4-T)
Idle CO2 Output
107
58
Noise Level
67 dB
Low
Particulate Filter
Not Available
No
Start Stop System
Standard
Yes
Fuel Octane Requirement
Petrol
95 Octane Unleaded
Fuel Evaporation Control
-
EVAP Canister
Green NCAP Rating
-
5/5
Variable Valve Timing
-
Yes
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Ownership Role
Top
Flagship
Price Zar
319900 ZAR
1149900 ZAR
Pricing Role
Current listed price
Current listed price
Starting Price
319900
1149900
Starting Price Zar
319900
1149900
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Real-world City Mileage Max
17 l/100km
4.5 l/100km
Real-world City Mileage Min
14 l/100km
3.0 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Max
20 l/100km
5.5 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Min
17 l/100km
3.5 l/100km
Owner Review Count
31
-
Spec
Starlet
Tank 500
Engine
1-litre Turbocharged Petrol
3-litre Twin Turbocharged Petrol Plug-in Hybrid
Fuel Type
Petrol
Plug-in Hybrid
Hybrid System
Not Applicable
Plug-in Hybrid
Engine Displacement
996 cc
2999 cc
Cylinders
3
6
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Twin Turbocharged
Fuel System
Direct Injection
Direct Injection
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
10.5:1
Maximum Power
72 kW @ 5500 rpm
340 kW @ 5500 rpm
Maximum Torque
140 Nm
750 Nm
Combined Power
Not Applicable
320 kW
Combined Torque
Not Applicable
750 Nm
Motor Type
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Number of Motors
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Motor Location
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Drive Type
FWD
AWD
Transmission
CVT
9-Speed Automatic
Top Speed
175 km/h
210 km/h
0-100 km/h
12.0 sec
4.8 sec
Power-to-Weight Ratio
71.6 kW/tonne
119.4 kW/tonne
Torque-to-Weight Ratio
139.3 Nm/tonne
279.9 Nm/tonne
Battery Capacity
Not Applicable
27 kWh
Usable Battery Capacity
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Battery Type
Not Applicable
Lithium-ion
Battery Voltage
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Electric Range
Not Applicable
135 km
AC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
DC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
AC Charging Time
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
DC Charging Time
Not Applicable
Not Officially Disclosed
Regenerative Braking
Not Applicable
Yes
Engine Code
Market-specific engine family
GW4C30D
Cylinder Layout
Inline
Not Officially Disclosed
Valves
16
24
Valves per Cylinder
4
4
Bore
82.0 mm
Not Officially Disclosed
Stroke
94.6 mm
Not Officially Disclosed
Quarter Mile
15.5 sec
Not Officially Disclosed
Drive Modes
Eco, Comfort, Sport
Not Officially Disclosed
Launch Control
No
Yes
Rev Limiter
6500 rpm
Not Officially Disclosed
In depth: how these cars differ
This Starlet and Tank 500 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 Tank 500 100.
Efficiency index: Starlet 66 vs Tank 500 97.
Safety-equipment index: Starlet 98 vs Tank 500 100.
Practicality index: Starlet 53 vs Tank 500 83.
Ownership-cover index: Starlet 43 vs Tank 500 65.
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 Tank 500 image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
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 / 100
Evidence-index readout
Tank 500 leads by 31 points
Tank 500 has a large lead in Hagalu's source-backed catalogue index over Starlet.
Performance
Tank 500 +68
Efficiency
Tank 500 +31
Safety
Tank 500 +2
Practicality
Tank 500 +30
Ownership
Tank 500 +22
Large difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this scoreView full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Tank 500
Performance
100/100
Efficiency
97/100
Safety
100/100
Practicality
83/100
Ownership
65/100
Starlet
Performance
32/100
Efficiency
66/100
Safety
98/100
Practicality
53/100
Ownership
43/100
What the evidence means
Evidence indexGWM Tank 500
leads the specification evidence index with 90 pts
vs 59 pts for Starlet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Tank 500 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.
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.
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