Starlet (1973 to 1999)

The Toyota Starlet, manufactured globally from 1973 until 1999 across five generations, is a cult-classic subcompact that transformed from a humble rear-wheel-drive commuter into a high-tech performance pioneer. In the 2026 Australian market, the Starlet has maintained its status as a quintessential "P-plater" car, with the local buyer pool dominated by first-time drivers and students who prize the final EP91 series for its mechanical simplicity, incredible fuel economy, and park-anywhere dimensions. Desirability has reached an absolute fever pitch this year following the early-2026 confirmation of the all-new Toyota GR Starlet, a 1.3-litre turbocharged "pocket rocket" developed for Rally 4 competition that has reignited global nostalgia for the nameplate. This modern revival has trickled down to the used market, where enthusiasts are frantically hunting for the "holy grail" performance imports: the EP82 GT Turbo and the EP91 Glanza V, both famous for their punchy 4E-FTE engines that offer a visceral, lightweight driving experience missing from modern hatchbacks. Consequently, the market value of the Starlet in Australia is seeing a sharp divergence; while the standard Starlet Life remains an affordable and reliable entry point for young drivers, pristine, factory-original turbo variants and the rare EP71 Turbo S have transitioned into blue-chip collectibles, with prices reflecting their importance as the first Japanese subcompacts to truly embrace the "hot hatch" formula.

The Toyota Starlet, manufactured globally from 1973 until 1999 across five generations, is a cult-classic subcompact that transformed from a humble rear-wheel-drive commuter into a high-tech performance pioneer. In the 2026 Australian market, the Starlet has maintained its status as a quintessential "P-plater" car, with the local buyer pool dominated by first-time drivers and students who prize the final EP91 series for its mechanical simplicity, incredible fuel economy, and park-anywhere dimens… Read more