Hyundai Stargazer

The 5-7 seater is Hyundai's latest and fifth offering for 2022, marking their debut in the MPV segment. Choose from three different models: the high-end version seats 7, while other versions offer a comfortable 5-seater configuration. Under the hood, they all share a dynamic 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 112hp and 144 Nm of torque, paired with an intelligent Intelligent Continuously Variable Transmission (IVT). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.

History

Launched in the Philippines on November 8, 2022, the Stargazer will impress in its GL, GLS and premium GLS grades. The range-topping GLS Premium even comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense.

Variant and Price

The Hyundai Stargazer is the epitome of Korean futuristic design. With its dynamic styling and sleek aerodynamic silhouette, it guarantees not only striking looks but also a smooth ride and fuel efficiency.

The Hyundai Stargazer's front boasts sleek, sloping lines, akin to its sibling, the Staria, and sports a distinctive face. With the upscale GLS Premium model, you get LED headlights, while others feature halogen. More advanced versions come equipped with fog lights, auto light control, and daytime running lights. If you opt for higher-end models, you'll enjoy LED rear combo lights and a chic black and chrome grille, contrasting the body-colored grille and bulbous tail lights found in the more basic models.

All models of the Stargazer roll on 16-inch wheels, with the choice of a single or two-tone design, depending on the model you pick.

Dimensions

The Stargazer features a minimalist interior designed for flexibility and storage. Inside, you'll find 31 clever storage points, from wall shelves under air vents for trinkets to adjustable cup holders, seatback tables and even a luggage board for efficient packing.

The Stargazer's interior can be customized with leatherette or fabric seats depending on the model. All models come with split bi-folding and sliding second-row seats, while GLS and GLS Premium models get a center armrest. Manual climate control and rear air vents keep everyone comfortable, and thanks to a class-leading wheelbase, seven adults can easily be accommodated.

Tech-wise, the Hyundai Staria boasts an 8-inch infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher variants enjoy a digital instrument cluster and a 6-speaker sound setup. However, the GL models have a basic radio, monochrome LCD, 4 speakers, and a traditional 3.5-inch TFT LCD trip computer.

Safety features

The Hyundai Stargazer's top model is loaded with safety features. Even the basic variants have dual airbags and ABS. GLS models include electronic stability control and hill-start assist. But the GLS Premium goes beyond, offering High Beam Assist, Blind Spot and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping and Following Assist, Driver Attention and Safe Exit Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance, tire pressure monitoring, manual speed limit assist, park distance warning, rear view monitor, rear seat alert, and child seat anchors.

In 2022, the Hyundai Stargazer earned a four-star safety rating from ASEAN NCAP, scoring 31.21 for Adult Occupant Protection, 14.41 for Child Occupant Protection, 12.04 for Safety Assist, and 8.75 for Motorcyclist Safety, with an overall score of 66.48.

The Hyundai Stargazer is fueled by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, delivering 112hp and 144 Nm of torque. Paired with a CVT, all models channel this power to the front wheels.

The Hyundai Stargazer ensures a smooth ride with great throttle response, even in a throttle-first country. Thanks to its advanced continuously variable iVT transmission, it confidently overtakes other vehicles at high speeds.

In the small MPV class, high-performance handling isn't the priority, and the Stargazer's soft suspension reflects this. While its steering is precise, road feel is almost non-existent. However, this isn't a drawback, as the Stargazer shines in refinement and comfort – qualities most valued by buyers in this segment. It's designed for a smooth and enjoyable ride, rather than high-speed excitement.

The Stargazer, with its extended wheelbase and compact overhangs, ensures a smooth ride over rough patches and keeps road noise in check. Its brake tuning shines, especially during cornering, ensuring stability even when braking hard.

Hyundai could enhance the Stargazer's soundproofing, especially for the windows. At times, external noises like motorcycle exhausts and truck rumbles felt too close for comfort.

The Hyundai Stargazer shines in fuel efficiency, even in Manila's notorious traffic jams. A mix of highway and city driving yielded an impressive 14 km/l, with city mileage at 10 km/l, and highway cruising at 20-21 km/l. It's one of the most fuel-efficient entry-level MPVs I've tested.

Hyundai's new Stargazer is a futuristic and sleek seven-seater, marking the brand's first modern small MPV. Inspired by Staria, its eye-catching design boasts low-mounted headlights and high-set daytime running light strips, all wrapped in a unique "single curve design" profile.

The all-new Hyundai Stargazer received a four-star rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP), indicating room for improvement in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP). However, its competitive price point may still attract budget-conscious buyers.