A more in-depth look at Hyundai’s upcoming futuristic-looking Staria people mover.
Following on from the rather ambiguous teaser that was first shown a week ago, Hyundai has recently dropped more information regarding its upcoming Staria MPV. Thereby giving us a closer look at its futuristic-looking exterior, as well as its luxurious yet versatile interior.
Starting with the futuristic-looking exterior first and beginning at the front, it is clear to see now that the Staria’s rounded front end features a low-set mesh-like front grille flanked by rectangular LED headlight clusters on either side. Supposedly meant to evoke a ‘sophisticated space-age appearance’, this design direction is further complemented full-width LED DRL strip that bisects the front end of this spaceship-esque minivan.
Moving down the side, the South Korean MPV features an extraordinarily low belt-line that leads to an expansive glass area. This huge greenhouse continues round the back too with a huge glass rear window that is capped on either side by (nearly) full height rear light clusters, though the Parametric Pixel matrix-like light signature is only a feature on the higher-end Staria Premium.
Speaking of the Staria Premium, this particular variant of this upcoming people mover adds a unique front grille and larger 18-inch diamond-patterned alloy wheels. Both of which, as well as the side mirror caps, door handles and the exterior emblems and badges, are finished in tinted brass chrome for that more premium touch.
Moving inside, the Staria’s cokpit continues its futuristic theme by featuring a sleek, minimalist dashboard design that comes complete with a floating 10.25-inch central infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and a button operated gear selector. Much like its Starex spiritual predecessor too, this upcoming MPV is available with seating for up to 11 passengers within its capacious cabin.
Continuing on the topic of capacious-ness, the Staria isn’t exactly short on storage cubbies with some located on top of the overhead console, at the bottom of the cluster, and both on the top and bottom of the central fascia. If however even those numerous storage solutions won’t cut it, there is always a commercial variant of this South Korean minivan that has seating for just 2 passengers up front.
On the other end of the spectrum meanwhile and going back the Staria Premium, it is also available in an 11 seat configuration. Though the 7- and 9-seater options are perhaps more desirable for the more discerning buyer as the former 7-seat option features a one-touch relaxation mode on its second-row of premium relaxation seats that automatically reclines at a touch of a button, while the latter 9-seat configuration gains a mobile lounge feature courtesy of second row seats that swivel 180º to face the third row. Exclusive to this higher-end variant of MPV is 64-colour interior lighting too.
As for engine options, there has been no official word from Hyundai just yet. Judging from the rear exterior badging of the Staria Premium though, a 3.5 litre Smartstream twin-turbocharged V6 (as to be found in the various current Genesis models) will most likely make an appearance under the short bonnet of this South Korean people mover.
More details regarding the Staria is set to be forthcoming as it prepares for its digital global premiere sometime in the first half of 2021.
PRESS RELEASE: Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled additional design features of its new multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lineup, STARIA, ahead of its digital world premiere slated for the first half of 2021.
Designed for both families and businesses, STARIA provides next-level mobility solutions that make time in transit more accommodating, productive and worthwhile. Moreover, STARIA provides a preview of the space innovation that will be available through Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs) in the future mobility era.
STARIA’s overall look is based on an ‘inside-out’ approach, a new design methodology for future mobility that begins the design process with the interior and expands it to the exterior. This reflects Hyundai’s response to recent shifts in consumer needs that prioritize the use of interior space.
Future-oriented, innovative exterior resembling a ‘spaceship’
STARIA’s exterior presents a futuristic, pure, streamlined silhouette, defined by a fluid curve running from front to back, inspired by the halo that illuminates Earth’s horizon during sunrise when viewed from space.
STARIA’s simple front is adorned with horizontal daytime running lights (DRLs) and a positioning lamp that together stretch across the width of the vehicle. The bold and wide radiator grille with unique patterns creates an instantly recognizable façade. Its sophisticated space-age appearance is further defined by low-set headlamps positioned on each side of the grille.
Hyundai uses the same body color for all frontal parts to maximize the vehicle’s modern and pure style. The lowered beltlines and expansive panoramic windows on the sides improve overall visibility and provide a sense of openness. Inspired by the traditional Korean architectural style known as hanok, this sense of spaciousness makes passengers feel as if the outer scenes are connected to the inside.
The rear has a simple and pure look, with eye-catching vertical tail lamps as well as a wide rear window. The rear bumper is lowered to help passengers easily load and unload the cargo.
STARIA Premium adds exclusive design cues to provide a luxurious look and feel. The Premium model’s radiator grille is designed with a unique mesh pattern. The chrome line around the cube-type, full-LED headlamps as well as the tinted brass chrome applied to the Hyundai emblem on the front, wheels, side mirrors and door handles highlight the vehicle’s sophisticated and high-end styling. The variant-exclusive, 18-inch wheels include diamond patterns and graphics, emphasizing the model’s premium and modern look.
The high-end model’s rear combination lamps are applied with Hyundai’s unique Parametric Pixel design and lamp-shape garnish on top, providing a connected feeling.
Premium and comforting interior with various functionalities
Inspired by the lounge of a cruise ship, STARIA’s interior provides a luxurious feeling and relaxed space. The vehicle’s innovative design architecture, with lower beltlines and expansive panoramic windows, creates a spacious, stimulating environment for passengers.
The driver-focused cockpit has a futuristic high-tech look with a 10.25-inch front display screen, touch-based center fascia and a button-type electronic shift lever. The digital cluster is located on top of the dashboard, providing an unobstructed view for the driver.
Storage space is available on top of the overhead console, bottom of the cluster, and top and bottom of the center fascia. The center console box is equipped with cup holders, USB ports and additional storage space for both driver and passengers.
The STARIA Premium model offers a variety of additional interior features that will transform the passenger’s mobility experience. The 7-seater high-end model includes a one-touch relaxation mode on its second-row premium relaxation seats, automatically reclining to a seat posture that comfortably disperses the passenger’s weight and improves overall body balance.
The 9-seater STARIA Premium has second-row seats with the added ability to swivel 180 degrees to face passengers in the third row. This offers a new mobility experience where passengers can talk while looking at each other.
The 64-color ambient mood lamp, available in all STARIA Premium variants, provides exceptional interior atmosphere. The harmonious direct and indirect lighting can be implemented on the cockpit, floor console, door and luggage trims to add to the premium feeling.
“STARIA is Hyundai’s first mass-produced vehicle model that is designed with the ‘inside-out’ design approach, said SangYup Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Hyundai Design. “STARIA will provide a completely new experience and value proposition to customers through its unprecedented design and innovative features.”
Available in multiple variants and seating configurations to meet various needs
STARIA offers a number of seating arrangements, from 2-seater to 11-seater, making it suitable for both families and business use. STARIA Premium, a high-end variant, is available in 7-, 9- and 11-seat configurations with exclusive design cues and interior upgrades.
STARIA Digital World Premiere
Hyundai will officially debut STARIA through a digital world premiere in the first half of 2021. More information about the world premiere will be revealed soon.
