The Hyundai Staria is the Korean marque's brand new 5-door minivan. The automaker's new design theme is “Inside Out,” and so the vehicle features the look of a spaceship and a wide-open cabin. And it certainly does have a futuristic look about it that differs from other minivans on the market. From the LED strip along the front to its large, low and modern grille, it's ultra-modern - inside and out.
The Staria is available as a 9 or 11 seater with a seating highlight being the 180-degree Swivel Seats that facilitate face-to-face meetings on the go. Talk about a mobile boardroom…or playroom. It even has USB connections throughout the cabin and not just in the front.
There are four options available: The R2.2 Executive Bus AT is available in 9 or 11 seat options; then there's the R2.2 Elite Bus AT and the range-topping R2.2 Luxury Bus (both are 9 seaters). All run on a 2.2L 4 Cylinder Diesel engine which delivers 130 kW @ 3 800/ min power and 430 Nm @ 2 500/ min torque 1,500~2,500.
The platform that underpins the Hyundai Staria is pretty much the same as the one you'll find under the Kia Carnival, but Hyundai has extended it by more than 50cm, creating a wheelbase of just under 3.3 metres. You will also be sitting high, looking down on SUV drivers - literally, of course.
The pièce de résistance is Hyundai's incredible after-sales offer, which includes the seven-year or 200 000km manufacturer warranty for the ultimate peace of mind.