Following the facelift of the large minivan Carnival, Hyundai's MPV Staria hybrid model is set to launch next month. The 2024 Staria Hybrid reportedly completed its environmental certification for vehicle emissions and noise on the 23rd of last week. The models that have completed emissions and noise certification include a total of six models: Staria 1.6T-GDI Hybrid 9-seater and 11-seater, cargo van 3-seater and 5-seater, MPV Staria Lounge 1.6T-GDI Hybrid 7-seater, and 9-seater.
The Staria Hybrid is scheduled for release in early March, and it will launch alongside the 2024 Staria model with enhanced convenience and safety features. It will combine a 1.6 gasoline turbo engine with an electric motor and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The 2024 Staria's powertrain lineup has expanded to three options with the addition of the 1.6 gasoline turbo hybrid model to the existing 2.2 diesel and 3.5LPI models. The specifications of the Staria 1.6 gasoline turbo hybrid model are not yet known or publicly released. However, it is expected to be similar to the Carnival 1.6 gasoline turbo hybrid model that was launched late last year.
The Carnival 1.6 gasoline hybrid produces a maximum output of 245 horsepower, torque of 37.4 kg.m (270.5 lb-ft), and fuel efficiency of 13.5km/L (31.8 mpg). Looking at the curb weight between the Carnival and Staria, the Carnival weighs 2,165kg (4,773 lbs), while the Staria ranges from 2,005 to 2,270kg (4,420 to 5,004 lbs). As a result, the output, torque, and fuel efficiency are not expected to differ significantly.
While concerns were raised about equipping a large minivan with a 1,600cc gasoline turbo engine, which seems small for the vehicle's size, it's said that the output, torque, and fuel efficiency will be higher than those of the 3.5 LPi or 2.2 diesel engines. The 3.5LPi has a maximum output of 240 horsepower and a maximum torque of 22kg.m (159.3 lb-ft). The 2.2 diesel produces 177 horsepower and 44kg.m (318.3 lb-ft) of torque.
The retail price of the Staria 1.6 hybrid is likely to start in the low 30 million won range (approximately $22,500 USD), considering that the existing Staria 2.2 diesel Tourer ranges from 28 million to 31.68 million won ($21,000 to $23,760 USD), and the LPG 3.5 model is priced at 31.39 million won ($23,542 USD). This is significantly lower than the Carnival 7-seater hybrid, which ranges from 46.16 to 51.13 million won ($34,620 to $38,347 USD).
However, there seems to be a difference in the intended use between the Carnival and Staria. While the Carnival is primarily used as a minivan for commuting and leisure activities, the Staria is referred to as a passenger van suitable for transporting many people or cargo. Nevertheless, with more people recently choosing the Staria for outdoor activities, it may potentially replace some of the demand for the Carnival.