After teasing it a little last week, the Hyundai STARIA has been fully unveiled as the successor to the Starex.
Back on the 11th of March, Hyundai shared photos of their upcoming STARIA multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). At the time it was unclear whether this would be a replacement to the Starex or something that would be sold alongside it.
Now it’s pretty clear that it will completely replace the Starex as it will be available in 7, 9 or 11 seater configurations. There will also be different trim levels to suit customer needs.
The STARIA takes a huge leap over the Starex in terms of design, perceived value and more. Check out the details below.
STARIA PRESS RELEASE
Hyundai Motor Company 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’
Hyundai 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.
Hyundai 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.
Available in multiple variants and seating configurations to meet various needs
Hyundai 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.
