Hyundai Staria Hybrid MPV: The minivan segment is witnessing a resurgence, particularly with the rise of premium options offering luxurious comfort and advanced features.
One such example is the Hyundai Staria, a globally acclaimed MPV. Recently, the South Korean automaker revamped the Staria lineup for the 2024 model year, introducing a hybrid powertrain and additional features, making it an even more compelling proposition.
Staria: A Cut Above the Rest
Hyundai positions the Staria above its sibling, the Stargazer MPV, which caters to a more budget-conscious segment.
However, Staria plays in a different league with its imposing size and premium features. Stretching nearly 5.3 meters in length, the Staria was previously available with a 3.5L V6 petrol engine and a 2.2L turbo diesel engine. Now, the 2024 model year adds a much-anticipated hybrid option to the mix.
Hybrid Powertrain: A Marriage of Power and Efficiency
The 2024 Staria Hybrid boasts a unique powertrain featuring a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers an impressive combined output of 242 bhp and 367 Nm of peak torque, making it the most powerful Staria variant despite the presence of the 237 bhp 3.5L V6 option.
Additionally, the hybrid system promises a fuel efficiency of 13 km/l, a commendable feat considering the Staria’s size and weight of around 2.5 tonnes.
Trims and Pricing: Catering to Diverse Needs
Hyundai offers the Staria Hybrid in three distinct variations – Cargo, Tourer, and Lounge – catering to diverse needs. The Cargo variant is available in 3-seater and 5-seater configurations, while the Tourer comes in 9-seater and 11-seater options.
The top-of-the-line Lounge trim offers a luxurious 9-seater Prestige variant and a premium 7-seater Inspiration variant. Pricing for the Staria Hybrid starts from KRW 34,330,000 (approx. Rs. 21.33 Lakh) for the Cargo 3-seater and goes up to KRW 46,140,000 (approx. Rs. 28.7 Lakh) for the Lounge Inspiration 7-seater.
Beyond Power: Features and Versatility
The Staria Hybrid isn’t just about impressive performance and efficiency. The 2024 model year brings subtle yet noteworthy upgrades, including a redesigned smart key and the inclusion of a new Type-C charging socket. Additionally, the Staria’s versatility is evident with the existence of a caravan version, showcasing the platform’s adaptability beyond the traditional MPV role.
A Glimpse into the Future?
While the Staria Hybrid is unlikely to hit the Indian shores, it does spark interesting possibilities. The shared platform between the Staria and the soon-to-be-launched Kia Carnival in India raises a question: will the 1.6L Turbo Petrol Hybrid powertrain make its way to the Carnival facelift in markets like the USA?
Only time will tell, but the Staria Hybrid’s success indicates a growing demand for powerful and efficient hybrid minivans, paving the way for potential future iterations in various markets.
In Conclusion:
The 2024 Hyundai Staria Hybrid marks a significant step forward, offering a potent combination of power, efficiency, and luxurious features. Its versatility and diverse trim options cater to various needs, making it a compelling proposition for those seeking a premium and practical MPV experience.
While its availability in India remains uncertain, the Staria Hybrid serves as a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and its ability to cater to evolving consumer preferences in the global automotive landscape.
