If you’re looking for the Hyundai Staria, then you are delving into one of the most creative multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) around. Designed as a disruptor for the people-mover class, the Hyundai Staria is an out-of-this-world looker that packs plenty of room, technology and family-friendly inclusions.
Whether you are a parent who needs to house everyone, a business owner with flexible transporting needs or just have interest in this futuristic ride, we have everything from history and specs to pricing, reviews and comparisons covered in one easy-to-read guide. Discover what makes the Staria the next era of MPV mobility in 2025 where comfort, safety and efficiency converge.
History and Launch of the Hyundai Staria
The Hyundai Staria’s story begins with the Starex, Hyundai’s iconic light commercial vehicle first introduced in 1997. After over two decades, the Staria arrived as a full redesign in April 2021 in South Korea, marking a bold departure from conventional van aesthetics.
Its global debut followed swiftly: Australia and New Zealand in August 2021, Indonesia in August 2021, the Philippines in August 2022, and Malaysia in October 2022. Other markets like Thailand (reintroduced in March 2024), Russia (February 2022), South Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and parts of Europe soon adopted it.
The Staria was crafted on Hyundai’s N3 platform, shared with models like the Tucson and Sorento, to deliver SUV-like dynamics in a van body. Early acclaim centered on its “Parametric Dynamics” design language, with sharp lines and a huge front grille. For 2022, changes included the renaming of the trims for the Malaysian market to Style, Prime and Prestige and it will also be available with an all-wheel drive option in Philippines.
Hyundai In 2024, Hyundai announced an electric version,’Staris EV’ to be introduced in 2026 for Europe and Asia-Pacst because of increasingly severe environmental laws. A more efficient hybrid model, with the assistance of electric power to complement its petrol engine, was a new entrant in Europe.
The Staria has been displayed in India at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 It could also launch in 2026 and be priced around Rs 60-65 lakh, But it is not yet available in US because of market predilection for SUVs over MPVs. Sales are brisk, more than 54,000 units in only South Korea alone in 2023, with major exports. It will be available as special models, such as limousines, ambulances and campers for selected markets, emphasizing its versatility.
Engine Options, Specifications, and Features
The Hyundai Staria provides multiple powertrains for various driving environments, all emphasizing reliability and fuel efficiency. The diesel (in most markets) takes the lead, powered by a 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at between 130-177 hp and 430 Nm of torque sending power to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Combined fuel economy is about 8.2 L/100km. Petrol options include a 3.5-liter V6 MPI engine delivering 272 hp and 331 Nm, achieving about 10.5 L/100km. In Europe, a hybrid setup adds an electric motor to the petrol engine for improved economy without needing external charging.
The transmission is usually an eight-speed automatic, with standard front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive (HTRAC) is available on higher trims including the Premium in certain regions. At the rear, there is leaf spring or solid axle through struts for a load-bearing component. Braking is conducted using all 4 wheel disc brakes that are supplemented by ABS, EBD and electronic stability control. Key specifications include:
- Dimensions: 5253 mm long, 1997 mm wide, 1990 mm high; wheelbase 3273 mm.
- Wheels: 17-inch steel or alloys for base models, 18-inch alloys on top trims.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2500 kg braked.
- Fuel Tank: 75 liters.
- Ground Clearance: Around 170-185 mm.
Features shine in the cabin, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 4.2-inch digital driver’s display. Higher variants add a 12-speaker Bose audio, wireless charging, dual-zone climate control, and 64-color ambient lighting.
The seating can be configured as a 7-seater, 9-seater, 10-seater or 11-seater one (in select markets), with luxury features such as Nappa leather upholstery, heated/ventilated seats and sliding second-row “Relaxation Seats” in the Premium 7-seater. The boot is huge, offering as much as 831 litres with seats up in passenger models and more than 5000 litres when dropped down. Tech highlights include Bluelink connectivity (five years free on select trims) and a surround-view monitor.
Also Read: Hyundai Tucson 2025: Hyundai’s Refreshed Compact SUV
Variants and Pricing
The Hyundai Staria lineup varies by market, but common trims include:
| Variant | Seating | Key Features | Approximate Price (2025, varies by region) |
| Cargo/Staria Load | 2-5 seats | Basic cargo setup, 17-inch wheels, no rear windows | Starts at $49,500 (Australia); Rp 934.7 million (Indonesia) |
| Commuter/Standard | 10-11 seats | Basic safety suite, manual seats | Around $55,000 (Australia) |
| GLS+/Elite | 9-11 seats | Alloy wheels, keyless entry, infotainment upgrades | $60,000-$65,000 (Australia); PHP 2.58 million (Philippines) |
| Premium/Highlander | 7-9 seats | AWD option, leather seats, advanced ADAS, 18-inch wheels | Up to $67,500 (Australia); Rp 1.072 billion (Indonesia top trim) |
| Lounge/Premium+ | 7 seats | Relaxation seats, Bose audio, panoramic sunroof | $70,000+ in premium markets |
Prices are before on-road costs and can fluctuate; for example, in the Philippines, the base Cargo is PHP 1.598 million, while the Premium+ reaches PHP 3.388 million. In India (expected), it’s projected at Rs 55-65 lakh. Colors include Abyss Black Pearl, Moonlight Blue, and white/silver options. Warranty is typically five years/unlimited km in Australia, with service plans available.
Safety Ratings and Features
The Hyundai Staria is strong on the safety front, with a five-star ANCAP rating awarded in 2022 — making it the first van to secure this score under the most recent criteria. Those ratings are comprised of scores of 85% for adult occupants, 86% for child occupants, 65% for vulnerable road users and 74% for safety assist. Further, this is true for both the passenger and Load models with automatic transmissions, due to structural commonality.
Standard features encompass seven airbags (including a center front airbag), ABS, ESC, hill-start assist, and tire pressure monitoring. Advanced driver aids via Hyundai SmartSense include forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering.
Higher trims add a 360-degree camera, rear occupant alert, and safe exit assist. The Staria Load lacks some child restraint anchors but includes a cargo barrier option. In general, it’s lauded for keeping the car from crashing and protecting occupants in a collision.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Staria of rebellious MPV design – inspired by breaking the barriers – demonstrates a vision with which bold design and generous space equipped with high-tech features highlight practicality. From its diesel efficiency and five-star safety, to seating options for families, business or adventurers, it does all the things. If you can live with its size and style, the pros — comfort, tech and value — outweigh the cons for most shoppers. If you’re in the market for a people-mover that feels like the future, the Staria does just that.
