It boasts a dinosaur-like majestic presence. It’s akin to a herbivorous dinosaur that poses no harm to humanity. This is Hyundai’s ambitious creation, the ‘Staria Hybrid.’ On the 20th, I had the opportunity to test drive this Staria Hybrid over a distance of 64 km from Paju, Gyeonggi-do to Ilsan Motor Studio.
The Staria was launched in 2021 as a successor to the Starex under the slogan of ‘a new multipurpose vehicle.’ Three years ago, it initially came with two engine trims, LPG and diesel, but this gasoline hybrid addition has broadened consumer choices significantly.
The sharp and elongated headlights that traverse the width of the vehicle and the massive radiator grille convey an intense character reminiscent of a Robocop’s face. It measures a colossal 5,255 × 1,995 × 1,990 mm. The elegant curves created from the A-pillar to the D-pillar, along with the low beltline and panoramic windows, exude a futuristic atmosphere unique to Staria.
As soon as you step into the second row, the electric side step graciously descends. This thoughtful design does not compromise the external aesthetics, allowing ease of access for children and the elderly.
With a 2+2+3 seating layout, the seven-passenger configuration allows for ample legroom in the third row, accommodating two fists’ worth of space in front of the knees. Now, sitting in the third row doesn’t come with a compromise in comfort. The second row features premium relaxation seats that keep the spine aligned with their snug fit.
The experience of being in the second row feels like riding in a first-class plane cabin. The suede leather finishes on the ceiling and interior pillars elevate the image of this vehicle from a mere multipurpose minivan to a premium multipurpose minivan.
A 10.25-inch driver’s instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch center display are included. Beneath the center display, there are control buttons for the air conditioning system and a concealed wireless charging pad for smartphones. However, a heads-up display is absent.
The dashboard on the driver’s side features cup holders, while a small storage compartment is placed behind the center display on the dashboard. Moreover, a full-size center console between the driver and front passenger enhances convenience for occupants.
It takes 3.4 turns from lock to lock. The steering response is quite light. Powered by a Smartstream gasoline 1.6 turbo hybrid engine, producing a maximum output of 180 horsepower and maximum torque of 27.0 kg.m, it pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, an electric motor providing a maximum output of 54 kW (73.1 horsepower) and maximum torque of 304 Nm (31.0 kg.m) contributes, achieving a total system output of 245 horsepower, creating a remarkable harmony.
The driving experience consists of repeated starts and stops. The rumbling sound of the engine awakens, only to be soothed again by the electric motor’s operation. By minimizing engine intervention, carbon emissions are reduced while enhancing fuel efficiency.
The electric motor does not only intervene in congested urban areas. At a speed of 100 km/h, the engine speed shows at 4,900 rpm in third gear while the engine sits at 2,000 rpm in sixth gear. The sounds of the wind and vibrations alternately accompany the driver, providing pleasant conversation.
However, this engine speed is short-lived. If cruising at a constant speed continues, the engine’s revolutions will cease, dropping to zero rpm. Not only in traffic but also on dedicated car lanes, if cruising at a steady speed continues, the vehicle can maintain momentum using only the charged battery and electric motor. Even at high speeds, wind noise doesn’t increase significantly, and the rpm rarely exceeds 3,000, displaying smooth performance.
If you were to compare, its sizable physique resembles a dinosaur, not one of those carnivorous dinosaurs engaging in battles among themselves, but akin to a herbivorous dinosaur that avoids inflicting harm on its kin while being conscious of carbon emissions.
Safety features have not been overlooked either. It includes navigation-based smart cruise control. While using smart cruise control on highways, it automatically adjusts speed based on navigation information at accident-prone areas.
With the Highway Driving Assist system, it maintains a safe distance from preceding vehicles while keeping the set speed and centering within the lanes on dedicated car roads. Given the increasing width of its body, parking safety is a recurring issue.
The surround-view monitor aids in confirming obstacles in blind spots while entering narrow driveways or parking lots to prevent accidents in advance.
The Staria Hybrid symbolizes the era of erasing the carbon footprint. With this efficient hybrid model, it is expected to become a new option for those accustomed to traditional internal combustion powertrains.
The test vehicle was the Staria Hybrid 7-seater 1.6 Turbo Hybrid Inspiration, priced at 49,460,000 KRW, with added options: Built-in Cam 590,000 KRW, BOSE Premium Sound 640,000 KRW, Comfort 2 520,000 KRW, Dual Wide Sunroof 890,000 KRW, and rear electric side steps 680,000 KRW, totaling 52,780,000 KRW.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr
