Why the STARIA HEV is the Best Choice for Road Trips! - MotorLog

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Why the STARIA HEV is the Best Choice for Road Trips!

Double Viewing Couples Review Channel

2025-05-07 00:08:34

2024 Staria Hybrid Lounge 7-Seater Test Drive

Hello, this is Double View, your automotive influencer.

I recently test drove the STARIA HEV Lounge 7-Seater, Hyundai's premium MPV model,

and I experienced a variety of attractions, from its spacious interior to its comfortable ride.

Today, I will share my impressions from the test drive for those subscribers who are curious about this model.

Since last winter, concerns about the battery efficiency and safety of electric vehicles have emerged,

leading to a growing distrust among customers.

As a result, electric vehicle sales have plummeted, while inventory has steadily increased.

In contrast, hybrid vehicles have gained popularity,

with each brand seeing an increase in the market share of HEV models.

Hyundai Motor Company introduced the Santa Fe HEV and Tucson HEV models in the second half of 2023,

offering customers a variety of alternatives.

However, it seems that these models fell short of the expectations of those seeking more space for camping, golfing, or outdoor activities.

However, Hyundai's introduction of the STARIA 1.6 Turbo Hybrid model is expected to address some of the demand for space.

This model features a Smartstream 1.6 Turbo Hybrid engine, providing a system output of 245 ps and a maximum torque of 37.4 kgf·m, delivering ample performance.

With this model, drivers can expect performance that exceeds their expectations.

Of course, there is also a demand for the 2.5 gasoline turbo hybrid engine, but during my drive, I didn't feel a significant lack of power.

I only sensed a power deficit when I pushed the speed above 75 mph on the freeway.

However, most buyers of large MVP models do not purchase them for high-speed driving,

so I believe the 1.6 gasoline turbo engine, which offers excellent fuel efficiency, will suffice.

My spouse and I often visit golf courses, and we prefer the Staria for its spaciousness, allowing four people to enjoy golf comfortably.

During a two-day golf trip to Pohang last fall, we rented the 7-seater lounge model, and it accommodated not only four golf bags but also our luggage and various specialty items we bought in Pohang.

I remember it fitting an incredible amount of stuff.

Considering the amount of luggage we packed, I can say that there are hardly any vehicles other than the STARIA that could handle such a load.

Last year, I drove the 2.2 diesel model, and I remember my wife feeling quite nauseous due to the vibrations.

The only advantage of diesel, fuel efficiency, was not competitive as it averaged 24.2 mpg compared to the hybrid's 29.7 mpg.

Thus, it seems that HEV models will become the standard in the future.

Hyundai has also released a 3.5 LPG model, but with a combined fuel efficiency of only 15.8 mpg, it does not compete well in terms of fuel costs.

Looking at the vehicle prices, the hybrid model is about $2,700 more expensive than the Lounge 7-seater Inspiration model.

Considering the fuel efficiency, I believe the HEV model will be a clear winner.

Moreover, with international oil and gas prices soaring,

the era of high oil prices may return, making it wise to invest in an HEV model with excellent fuel efficiency.

This post was created with support from Hyundai Motor Company for the test drive and content creation from KS Auto Plan.

The 2024 Staria High Limousine is expected to have a long waiting period for delivery,

so for those considering long-term rentals or leases, check out KS Auto Plan for quick delivery and competitive pricing.

Next, I will share my test drive experience of the 7-seater Lounge model.

2024 Staria Hybrid Lounge 7-Seater Specifications and Estimated Pricing Information

Overall Length: 206.9 inches

Overall Width: 78.5 inches

Overall Height: 78.3 inches

Wheelbase: 128.7 inches

System Maximum Output: 245 ps

(Gasoline Engine 180 ps, Electric Motor 54 kW)

System Maximum Torque: 37.4 kgf·m

(Gasoline Engine: 27.0 kgf·m, Electric Motor 304 Nm)

Tire Size: 235 / 55R 18 (Front and Rear Same)

Curb Weight: 5,094 lbs

Combined Fuel Efficiency: 29.7 mpg

City Fuel Efficiency: 31.6 mpg

Highway Fuel Efficiency: 27.1 mpg

The STARIA HEV model utilizes navigation road information to minimize unnecessary engine starts during low-speed congestion, enhancing ride comfort.

By living in the congested heart of Seoul, I often experience heavy traffic, and with the STARIA HEV's specialized control features, I felt significantly less fatigue.

This test drive event covered a round trip of 37.3 miles from Goyang to Paju.

Unlike other test drive events, a dedicated reporter accompanied us for the 18.6-mile journey to the destination, allowing us to experience chauffeur driving service.

The Lounge 7-Seater model features premium relaxation seats in the second row, providing a first-class level of comfort.

It truly felt luxurious.

Additionally, the headrests provide comfort for the head and neck, allowing for relaxation of both body and mind.

The schedule for the day was quite intense, but with the chauffeur driving course during the Staria Hybrid test drive event, it turned out to be manageable.

My wife even dozed off in the relaxation seat, and I thought about how nice it would be to sit back like this after a round of golf.

Moreover, for those who travel with elderly parents or in-laws, seeing them comfortably reclining in the second row would surely bring peace of mind.

I have experienced various relaxation seats, but the opportunity to enjoy a quiet and comfortable limousine service in such spaciousness makes the STARIA HEV model a worthy choice.

Additionally, the second row is equipped with ventilated seats, ensuring comfort even in the peak summer heat.

The STARIA HEV model is also available in a 9-seater configuration, featuring independent seats in the second row and three-seat configuration in the fourth row.

The 9-seater model includes swivel seats in the second row that can rotate up to 180 degrees, allowing the second and third rows to face each other.

When used for business, this setup allows for four-person meetings while on the move, and for family trips, parents and young children can face each other.

In the front row, the rear view and rear conversation modes enable drivers to monitor the movements of passengers in the second row, facilitating smooth conversations through the microphone.

The 2024 Staria High Limousine model features Hyundai's smart sensors, which integrate various driving assistance systems and safety features.

The model includes forward collision-avoidance assistance, intelligent speed limit assistance,

driver attention warnings, highway driving assistance, and blind-spot collision-avoidance warnings, ensuring the safety of both the driver and all passengers.

While I couldn't explore all the features in just one test drive,

I can confirm that the existing advantages of the STARIA, along with its quiet and comfortable ride and excellent fuel efficiency, have improved.

In this case, although a significant price increase compared to the existing 3.5 LPG and 2.2 diesel models was possible, the price was set lower than expected, leading to a satisfying evaluation in terms of marketability.

The prices for the 1.6 gasoline turbo hybrid Lounge models are as follows:

9-Seater Prestige 2WD: $31,000

9-Seater Inspiration 2WD: $33,800

7-Seater Inspiration 2WD: $34,300

Finally, based on our test drive of the 2024 Staria Hybrid Lounge 7-Seater,let's check the estimated pricing results:

Vehicle Price: $34,300

Acquisition Tax: $2,200

Bond Discount: $30

=> Estimated Net Purchase Price: $39,300

With the second-row relaxation seats and many high-end options included, if you can purchase it for under $40,000, it seems like a very worthwhile choice.

Today, I shared the test drive experience of the STARIA HEV model, which launched in the first quarter of 2024 with high expectations, along with its newly applied features and characteristics.

The STARIA is frequently used by business operators, and if you plan to use it for long-term rentals or leases, I recommend KS Auto Plan for quick delivery and the best prices.

With transactions involving over 20 capital companies, we can find the most affordable usage fees tailored to individual conditions,

and we can also offer various special promotions, including ultra-low-interest rates below market rates, so it would be beneficial to check estimates and make a decision easily.

Test Drive Event Invitation: Hyundai Motor Company

Content Creation Support: KS Auto Plan

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